Next year Sandvik Mining & Rock Solutions via its Mechanical Cutting Division will make the latest addition to its highly respected bolter miner line up with the MB672. Sandvik states the upgraded model “is full of new innovations with highest standards of automation and digitalisation which improve productivity and lowers total cost of ownership.”
It adds that the new bolter miners represents the safest longwall development system available and can be used from a 2 m to a 5 m cutting height. It adds: “Launching 2024 – the original inventor of the bolter miner is shaping the future of the underground continuous mining solutions, with over 30 years experience and more than 500 bolter miners delivered worldwide.”
The OEM says the new machine has operational features boosting roadway development performance and customer profitability. This includes its CUTRONIC® automated cutting technology and horizon control for reliable and fast excavation with the highest profile accuracy, a technology already deployed on Sandvik roadheaders.
The machine also features semi-mechanised bolting for improved bolting accuracy, increased safety due to less personnel required, plus more monitoring of bolting, the ability to record and report bolting data. The design also means that the MB672 is equipped to allow for fully automated bolting in the future when the customer is ready.
A new machine control system allows for tele-remote operation using a 5G network, allowing it to be operated from anywhere on surface. Machine telemetry data collection is instant and protected using Sandvik’s Racoon cloud services, while real time condition monitoring allows for better maintenance planning.
The machine is based on an ergonomic platform, with increased bolting capability to suit different cutting heights. Plus onsite underground modifications are possible if required bringing much more flexibility. The machine even has an integrated exploration drilling option of up to 200-300 m ahead with a hole diameter of 65-113 mm for onboard methane and water detection to ensure highest safety and productivity.
Its innovative sump-frame mechanism has increased cutter motor power of 400 kW. This incorporates cutting and bolting operations much closer as while the machine is stabilised for installation of ground support, the sump frame mechanism continues to move forward to cut out the next cycle.
