smartest drill
Transcription
smartest drill
Mechanized rock excavation with Atlas Copco conexpo 2008: No 1 2008 INTRODUCING THE WORLD'S SMARTEST drill OPERATOR’S RIG OF CHOICE: ROC D9RRC ALASKA’S DEVELOPING WILDERNESS MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA Where to find us Atlas Copco Construction Mining Technique USA LLC has combined company stores and a distributor network to provide support for Atlas Copco customers across the USA. Below, Atlas Copco company locations. State City Phone CO Denver 800-732-6762 NV Elko 775-777-2204 MA Ludlow 413-589-7439 MD Baltimore 877-797-0987 NH Henniker 603-428-6500 TN Knoxville 888-339-0344 WI Milwaukee 866-254-8511 TN Nashville 615-641-3000 PA Clark's Summit 800-950-1049 CA San Diego 866-374-5757 GA Atlanta 888-762-3745 CA Sacramento 916-655-3005 AZ Tucson 520-834-0400 IL Channahon 815-467-8166 UT Salt Lake 801-974-5544 OR Portland 503-459-4145 to find a distributor near you simply contact your nearest atlas copco store. In addition to the locations listed above, Atlas Copco has Customer Centers providing a range of other products. These are: Atlas Copco Compressors LLC Air Compressors Gen Sets Phone: 803-817-7438 Atlas Copco Construction Tools LLC The Near Future Looks Promising for Atlas Copco Mining & Construction W e’ve had dramatic growth in the US in the last five years and the business is almost five times bigger today than it was five years ago. Today the US is the largest market for Atlas Copco’s Construction and Mining business. And with better utilization of the US distribution network and the expansion of certain product lines, such as exploration and ground engineering, we expect it will get even bigger. I am pleased with Atlas Copco’s progress in the United States. As we look forward for the US, we are relatively optimistic for 2008, expecting business to remain on a similar level to 2007. There are, of course, segments that are negatively affected by the housing market but there are also segments where we expect growth. What we can see globally is that there are many exciting projects in relation to mining, but also infrastructure projects, especially in the emerging markets. Overall, we are looking quite positively at the coming years. Mining exploration has been booming quite a lot, and this year, 2008, it’s already clear this will be another record year. There are many exploration projects around the world looking for minerals, and development and production is certain to follow. Atlas Copco is always looking for new ways to satisfy its customers and help them succeed in their business. In addition we want to support our customers in effective ways through our distribution networks. Looking at growth and market synergies, there are segments in the mining and construction industries we can develop further, such as heavy and light construction. Looking to that opportunity, Atlas Copco acquired Dynapac’s road construction equipment business recently and has put a large investment in its development. For the US market, we have a production facility in San Antonio, TX, and will continue to offer the full range of Dynapac equipment. Atlas Copco will also continue to use the Dynapac name as it is very strong around the world for its line of light and heavy compaction equipment. Through the purchase of Ingersoll Rand’s Drilling Solutions business a few years ago, it was clear we acquired more than a lot of good products. The people and distribution have been key to the integration and success of Atlas Copco. The positives of each company combined to make a much stronger company and better resource for all our customers. As we look to expand in the construction markets through paving and compaction, we expect this will be the same with Dynapac. We are all excited about CONEXPO-CON/AGG in March. It’s a good chance to meet customers, socialize a little, and show them what Atlas Copco has to offer them. With both environmental and automation advances, we have many new concepts to discuss this year. I am confident it will be a great show and look forward to catching up with old friends and meeting new ones. Heavy Hydraulic Breakers Demolition Equipment Hand Held Pneumatic Rock Drills Phone: 413-746-0020 Björn Rosengren Senior Executive Vice President Atlas Copco AB Business Area President, Construction & Mining Technique Atlas Copco AB MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA is published by Atlas Copco Construction Mining Technique USA LLC. The magazine focuses on the company's products and their uses in drilling, boring, rock reinforcement and loading and transport of broken rock. 12 Published by Atlas Copco Construction Mining Technique USA LLC 3700 E. 68th Avenue Commerce City, CO 80022 www.atlascopco.us 24 Telephone 303-287-8822 6 Fax 303-288-8828 I n sid e Publisher Joanna Canton [email protected] No 1 2008 Editor-in-Chief Scott Ellenbecker [email protected] Page 4-10 CONEXPO-CON/AGG PREVIEW What Atlas Copco is showing off at the show! Page 12-14 OPERATOR’S RIG OF CHOICE: ROC D9RRC The rig is assigned to the most hazardous jobs in Canada Creative Director Sarah Karlstad Page 16-19 Editorial Advisory Board Joanna Canton, Scott Ellenbecker, Darwin Hollar, Marlene Moore, Ulf Linder SOUTH EAST ALASKA’S DEVELOPING WILDERNESS Unique projects are happening in this remote area Page 20-21 ACCURATE DRILLING IN NORWAY WITH HOLE NAVIGATION SYSTEM A busy roadway needs this improved efficiency of its blasting operations Page 22-23 THE GRANDDADDY OF SUPPORT FOR EXCAVATION PROJECTS Taking a street level parking lot and digging down in busy Charlotte, NC Page 24-25 THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE FOR CSI A job using Atlas Copco’s HardHat 185 compressor Page 26-27 A NEW YORK STYLE SOLUTION Creative blasting in Manhattan using an ECM 590 Page 28-30 LATEST ROC SERIES CABS UNVEILED Rig operators benefit from the new design Managing Editor Sue Salzwedel [email protected] 507-945-0100 Editorial Production, Design & Layout Ellenbecker Communications, Inc. 30120 State Hwy. 264 Round Lake, MN 56167 USA To Request Reproduction of Articles All product names such as Boomer, Boltec, ROC, Coprod, Scooptram, SmartRig and Swellex are registered Atlas Copco trademarks. However all materials in this publication including the product names may be reproduced or referred to free of charge. For artwork or additional information please contact Atlas Copco. Page 31YANKEE STADIUM Supported by Symmetrix Cover Operator's rig of choice pages 12-14 C7BOO 32 TH 1 Atlas Copco at ConExpo-Con/Agg SMART. TOUGH. POWERFUL. SMART. Atlas Copco’s SmartRigTM is a concept that facilitates all kinds of automation Highlighted in Atlas Copco’s booth this year are these featured products from all of our market segments – each sure to make significant changes to the industry. There is something for everyone, so bring your shopping list to the show this year…see you in Las Vegas! in drill rigs. The hardware is designed to operate in every possible weather condition, and the software can be upgraded onsite. Smart Rigs have built-in logging and monitoring functions, together with support for diagnostics and faultfinding. Global Positioning System, GPS, has been chosen for the highest possible drill rig navigation accuracy. The Silenced SmartRigTM is for use especially in urban areas where noise levels are restricted. TOUGH. Atlas Copco’s HardHatTM 185 cfm air compressor features a revolutionary polyethylene canopy design – possibly the toughest in the industry. The HardHatTM resists rusting, denting, corrosion or fading, and performs worry-free in extreme temperatures. Workers especially like the 49 HP John Deere engine and the rearmounted control panel. POWERFUL. The title of “the world’s biggest volume-produced hydraulic breaker,” held for over a decade by the HB 7000, ROC D9C Silenced SmartRig will change hands with the launch of Atlas Copco’s HB 10000 hydraulic breaker. A HB 10000 service weight of 11 tons (10 metric tons) and 50% more power than the HB 7000, the power generated in a single impact between piston and working tool corresponds to a weight force of around 840 ton (760 metric tons). XAS 185 HardHatTM Superior Air Compressors The XAS JD(U)7 series of compressor will offer utility companies or off-shore projects various options in power in a 1-inch smaller container than previous models. Come and see the new XAS 185 JDU7, a 49 HP model, at ConExpo. Different models with the new 80 HP John Deere motor (4024HF) will provide 185, 250, or 290 cfm of air, with 100-150 psi of working pressure. Generate Power! Atlas Copco generators provide all of the durable design and ruggedness needed to work in extreme weather conditions. Atlas Copco’s new QAX 24 generator offers its owners ease of operation. From the rear-mounted controls to the fronthinging, clamshell canopy, this generator – rated at 24 kVA – is perfect for general construction and everyday operation. Owners and fleet managers alike will appreciate the fact that the QAX 24 is constructed with a Zincor steel housing and a powder-coated finish that will give additional protection against corrosion and fading. The QAS 150 The XAS 375 JD6 and the XATS 375 JD6 portable compressors are workhorses! With actual free air delivery of 375 cfm and 100-150 psi of working pressure, they are ideal for demanding applications including sandblasting and utility work. The XC 2002 control module with LCD display puts integrated engine electronics for performance and diagnostics at your fingertips. These compressors are equipped with the extremely reliable John Deere engine. generator can power many significant applications with its standard 24-hour fuel tank, which allows for genuine versatility. It is mounted on rugged skids for ease of transportation. A standard sealed spillage-free frame ensures that all fluid can be retained within the frame. The rugged Zincor steel coated canopy is designed for extreme weather conditions. The rated prime power is 140 kVA, with a John Deere 6068HF285 motor. Atlas Copco’s QAS 30 (31 kVA) and the QAS 330, with 319 KVA of rated prime power, both have a comprehensive instrument panel which enables all key operating functions to be supervised without open- The TwinAir™ air compressor has been de- ing the canopy. Analog gauges provide veloped to provide the maximum output and at-a-glance monitoring. Protected by a airflow for its small 20-foot container footprint. tough transparent cover, the single panel Built with the very highest quality parts and provides easy start up and control of the standards, everything has been designed to generator. The panel withstand heavy-duty use. Two CAT C13 en- also gines – 440 HP each – provide pressure options system monitoring to that range from 175 psi to 365 psi. The proven ease operation. provides full optimal cooler configuration, larger air intake and low airflow restriction are designed to optimize the cooling behavior of the TwinAir™. The New CM785 Drill Smart Drilling With its high shift capacity, low energy consumption and innovative modules that improve productivity, we can safely say that SmartRig™ is a ground-breaking rig. The options available make it the quietest running rig of its kind, with greatly reduced setup time and efficient high precision drilling – under any condition. What Is Smart About Smartrig More Power with Less Fuel The SmartRig delivers exactly the right amount of power for each phase of the drilling operation from its new Stage 3/Tier III engine. This makes it possible to reduce fuel consumption by up to 30% compared to similar rigs on the market. Maximize Your Profitability The SmartRig is operated by a computerized Rig Control System (RCS). The RCS software provides integrated control of all of the drill rig systems. Atlas Copco is excited about the improvements on the new Easy Maintenance & Environmentally Friendly CM785 drill rig. CM 785 is built on the straightforward design With 30% fewer hoses and hose meters there is less need of the 700 series rigs, combined with well-proven features for maintenance and less risk of spillage, making the and components common within the ROC crawler range. SmartRig environmentally friendly. Service is trouble-free Improvements have been made with drilling capacity, hole with easy fault finding and self diagnostics. quality and overall cost efficiency in mind. SmartRig modules CM 785 is equipped with a cylinder-driven aluminum feed system that provides smooth feed force and contributes to a high penetration rate and long accessory life. The number Hole Navigation System of hoses and valves on the feed system is reduced and the The precision of the Hole Navigation System (HNS) op- breakout table is built in one fabricated piece, all to minimize timizes drilling and blasting results, improves fragmen- the maintenance requirement. The feed profile itself is sturdy tation and decreases the amount of explosives needed and highly resistant to bending. The sliding surfaces are pro- – substantially lowering your overall production costs. All tected by easily exchangeable steel caps that virtually elimi- drilling functions are monitored and controlled to provide nate the feed profile wear. The aluminum cradle is designed a record of hole alignment, burden and spacing. By us- for easy retightening to compensate for the sliding pad wear, ing the HNS, you will also profit from reduced setup time thereby ensuring smooth guiding at all times. and efficient high precision drilling – under any weather condition. The drill rig is equipped with variable-speed, cooling fan controls, load-sense hydraulics and engine auto-throttle for energy saving and minimized fuel consumption. The well- ROC Manager & Measure While Drilling balanced and sturdy super-structure with 17-inch (432mm) ROC Manager runs on a standard PC and can be used ground clearance and full length rock guards enables the rig to consolidate data about multiple rigs at multiple sites. to drill in rough terrain. The variable air flow switch enables You can use ROC Manager to design drill patterns, ana- the operator to adjust the flushing air volume as required from lyze drilling results, and analyze Measure While Drilling the cabin and helps to maintain hole quality particularly when (MWD) results. Using MWD, a number of key parameters collaring. are logged at requested intervals while drilling. with SmartRig Major Upgrade TM Automatic Feed Alignment & Rod Adding System for the SmartRig’s Automatic Feed Alignment reduces set-up time and cancels out operator error by setting the feed ROC40 L7 to pre-defined angles at the touch of a button. The Automatic Rod Adding System enables the operator to drill automatically to a given depth, while carrying out other duties such as maintenance checks or grinding bits. Operation is easy and setup time is reduced. Silenced SmartRig With a noise level approximately 10 dB (A) below that of other rigs on the market, the Silenced SmartRig is currently the world’s quietest running rig. A perfect choice for civil engineering work sites in restricted urban areas. Family Long Feed The SmartRig ROC D7C and D9C are available as Long Feed Versions (LF), handling one 20 ft (6.1 m) starter rod and one 14 ft (4.3 m) rod in the rod adding system. A perfect choice that saves time by eliminating rod changes when drilling holes less than 20 ft (6 m). No matter how you decide to equip your SmartRig, every SmartRig delivered from us at Atlas Copco comes with highly intelligent standard equipment, and innovative equipment that has been developed with a focus on improving productivity. Two of Atlas Copco’s successful crawler rigs, ROC L740 and ROC L740CR, have undergone a major upgrade resulting in numerous advantages for surface drillers. Both ROC L7 and ROCL7CR have now been equipped with a larger power pack and a bigger engine enabling them to utilize 40kW for drilling, compared to the 30kW offered by the previous models. This gives a 33 percent potential increase in penetration rate. The rigs have also been equipped with the unique At- las Copco cylinder-feed system and aluminum feed beam, which give accurate and consistent feed force. The aluminum feed beam is not only lighter than its steel counterpart, it is also structurally much stronger and therefore considerably more resistant to bending. The operator has excellent visibility from the new, spacious cabin. For added safety, a camera supervises the rear end of the rig, which is furnished with high capacity air conditioning and heating systems, a offering comfortable working environment in any type of weather. Construction Tools Taking the Lead THE COBRA COMBI The Cobra Combi gas-powered drill/breaker from Atlas Copco Construction Tools LLC features better emissions, easier starts, and quieter and safer operation. Weighing only LHD 23 M ROCK DRILL Atlas Copco’s LHD 23 M hydraulic rock drill is ideal for drilling blast, anchor and rock-splitting holes. Lightweight and portable, the drill is used by construction and utility contractors, public service 55 pounds, the Cobra Combi is easy to departments and military engineers to transport. As a breaker, the unit deliv- provide efficient drilling without the need ers up to 2,600 blows per minute. With for large compressors. the drilling function engaged, the Combi offers a maximum drill depth of 6.5 feet. Hydraulic Compactor Attachments The HC 409 and HC 920 hydraulic com- PRECISE DRILLING APPLICATION Designed for precise and efficient diamond core drilling, Atlas Copco’s powerful and low vibration hydraulic-powered pactors feature FAG bearings, a Permco core drills are ideal for the most difficult motor and Lord shock mounts for excep- and demanding applications. While tional performance and durability. These primarily intended for drilling in rock, con- features make the compactors ideal for a variety of soil compaction projects. crete and brickwork, the core drills can be converted with a drill chuck mounting for use in wood and steel applications. Atlas Copco Post Drivers The drills can also be used underwater, making them ideal for challenging wet diamond core drilling jobs. Atlas Copco’s hydraulic-powered post drivers provide stable, powerful, highspeed driving solutions for a variety of post sizes. Capable of producing HYDRAULIC CUT-OFF SAWS Ideal for a variety of demanding applica- 1,500 blows per minute, the post tions, Atlas Copco’s hydraulic-powered drivers are suited to applications cut-off saws cut through a wide range such as driving road barrier tubes, profiles, signposts, fences and anchors. of materials, including concrete, asphalt, cement, brick and steel. The saws’ simple direct-drive design provides consistent speed and torque and reduces maintenance requirements, particularly when compared with beltdriven saws. POWER PACKS Offering a power-to-weight ratio higher than competing pneumatic and electric systems, Atlas Copco’s hydraulic power packs efficiently power a wide assortment of hydraulic handheld tools for con struction, utility and demolition projects. Major Advancements in DTH Performance RC 50 RAISES THE STANDARD The key criteria our customers want from the new Secoroc RC 50 reverse circulation drill are simplicity, performance AQUA 60 eliminates HAMMER OIL WHEN DRILLING This is not a new hammer, but one that deserves more attention. The 6-inch class AQUA 60 DTH hammer doesn’t require lubrication while drilling, saving drillers significant dollars in operating expenses. Drillers currently using the AQUA 60 say it outperforms other hammers in the class and has a life of 70,000 to 80,000 ft in limestone or granite. Drillers say the only oil this hammer will ever need is the Friday night “drink” that gives it a coating of protection for the weekend. TD 40 HAMMER FOCUSES ON GEOTHERMAL With constantly increasing energy prices, geothermal energy wells have become a viable heating alternative for both domestic and industrial users. Deep wells, 650 ft (200 m) or more, allow more energy recovery from one hole. The challenge for the driller is to find equipment that can drill deep quickly without being affected by water backpressure. The Secoroc TD 40 represents the latest in DTH tech- nology. Rated at 500 psi working pressure, this new 4” hammer has the capability to drill quicker and deeper than any other hammer and still retain maximum performance and reliability. By incorporating the Quantum Leap® air cycle into this RC hammer, we’ve created a high frequency reverse circulation hammer for all rock formations. Plus, the QL-series hammers are known for their low-maintenance endurance and long-term reliability. Atlas Copco's RC hammers are specifically designed for both deep-hole exploration drilling and in-pit grade control applications. With the RC 50, drillers can expect 15% to 20% higher penetration rates over similar size hammers. The frequency (blows per minute) of the Secoroc RC 50 is as much as 34% higher than some competitors. Exploration Atlas Copco’s Christensen rigs have become synonymous with surface exploration and core drilling, and the CS10 is the newest addition to the lineup. It has a foldable mast with a drilling capacity of 2460 ft (850m) using Nsize in-the-hole tools (ITH). The long mast can split into three sections for easy transportation over any terrain and can handle 20 ft (6m) rods. A simple wire line makes core retrieval quick and easy while the control panel is user-friendly for smooth operation. in water-filled holes. All the components are adapted to keeping water out and compressed air in. Geotechnical Advances Overhaul Kits Atlas Copco offers a broad range of geotechnical products for all aspects of engineering, Maintenance is critical stabilizing, and securing of rock and soil for- for maximum equip- mations. The innovations in these products all ment performance. focus on increasing productivity by reducing Atlas time spent on a project. makes it easy Copco and economical to service your COP Rock Drills by using our step-by-step Overhaul Kits. Each kit includes the overhaul instructions and spare parts necessary while ensuring that you save money over purchasing the parts individually. Order your kit per a single part number and the complete kit will arrive in a self-contained wooden box ready for installation. The UNIGROUT is available in hydraulic, electric or diesel models in various sizes for all projects. These grout plants consisting of mixer, agitator, pump, control panel and all necessary ROC Care Atlas Copco offers ROC CARE as a way for drill owners to pass the responsibility of maintenance to someone else…Atlas Copco and its authorized dis- tributors. ROC Care is a multi-step agreement between Atlas Copco and the rig owner that hoses on a self-contained steel platform are includes Scheduled Servicing based on hours of operation, Inspection Reports with recom- ready for immediate use. Their uses include mended actions, an Extended Warranty that protects owners against unplanned expenses and stabilizing, sealing or strengthening rock and Procom™, which is a satellite-based monitoring system that provides remote information trans- soil formations by pumping grout under pres- fers of rig performance and operational data. ROC CARE is tailored for each customer based on sure into the formation. Typical applications the projected usage. include dams, tunnels, foundation work and a variety of construction applications. SYMMETRIX is a patented drilling system that advances casing through overburden or unconsolidated formations. Symmetrix can drill straight holes at any angle (including horizontal) to depths beyond 330 ft (100 m). Working together as one efficient drill bit, the components are made up of a pilot bit with large internal flushing holes and external flushing grooves, a ring bit and a shoe casing. Whether the application is for surface casing or micropile foundations, the system will save contractors dollars and time. 10 Big Air Performance Contractors have big air options with proven performance in a solid package through Atlas Copco’s lineup of high pressure compressors. These high pressure units are winning over customers across the globe both on and off shore. The XRXS offers 1200 cfm at 435 psi, whereas the XRVS boosts free air delivery to 1256 cfm at 365 psi to give contractors a range of options. The TwinAir™ combines two compressors in one package to give contractors large annular velocity in one twenty-foot container. Each compressor in the TwinAir™ can run independently, singularly or together to provide up to 2232 cfm at 175 psi or 1975 cfm at 365 psi. Whether you need air for large diameter or deep hole drilling, Atlas Copco has the package to maximize your productivity. Atlas Copco is committed to your superior productivity. www.atlascopco.us • 1-803-817-7438 11 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA OPERATOR’S RIG OF The highways leading to Toronto from Sudbury and North Bay pass through forests, over rivers and, quite often, cut through rock. The ground in Eastern Canada is much like its neighboring US states directly south – rock to surface. Castonguay G.P. specializes in contract drilling and blasting services throughout Quebec and Ontario. Atlas Copco’s ROC D-Series rigs are an important component in Castonguay’s success. C astonguay operates around 60 rigs in Ontario and averages 115 throughout the company. Although t h e y have many brands, the Atlas Copco D-Series ROC D7 RRC and ROC D9 RRC rigs are the operator’s rig of choice. President and general manager of Castonguay’s Ontario operations, Bruno Dubé, says, “We get the jobs no one else will take.” And the ROC Radio Remote Control (RRC) rigs are a big reason for that. The safety of using RRC is the rig’s foremost feature, in Dubé’s opinion. He points out two important safety benefits. “The first is obvious, as the rigs have to work in difficult locations where there is a risk of turning over and, secondly, be12 cause the operator can move away from noise and dust.” Because the rig is assigned to the most hazardous jobs, Dubé orders all D-series rigs with a winch. “A drill without a winch is not a drill,” comments Dubé. Veteran operator, Dwayne Taylor, likes the fact that he can work at a distance from the rig. All of the drillers assigned to the D-series rigs took only a little time catching on to the remote control. “The remote is very user friendly,” says Taylor. He compares its intuitiveness to operating a vehicle. “It’s like driving a car. After a while I didn’t even have to look down. Now I don’t even think about what my hands are doing, they just do what they’re supposed to.” The ability to work on the edge safely is a benefit for the D-series, and Taylor also thinks accuracy is a benefit. Like all the senior drillers, Taylor has the benefit of operating the ROC rigs. He is currently running the ROC D9 RRC. He likes the straightness of the hole. With other drills, he explains that you can veer off center if there’s a deviation in collaring or if you simply start off too fast. He also says soft rock or a fracture in the formation can cause a bit to drift. But all these potential issues are not a problem with the D9. Castonguay originally purchased ROC D7 RRC rigs with the COP2150 rockdrill. Since the new D9 was introduced last year, the D7 is no longer available with the 21 kW drill, only the standard 18 kW drill. Today the standard rock drill with the D9 rig is the COP2160EX rockdrill. This is a MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA CHOICE: ROC D9RRC Driller Shawn Rancourt is able to stand on solid ground while maneuvering the ROC D9 over rough terrain. benefit, as the D9 has extra power and 18 cfm more air to increase speed and performance, and also to clean the hole better. Although rated for 4½ inch holes, driller Steve Pellerin says they will go up to 5 inch. In the right formation, Pellerin says he gets 800 ft a day with 5 inch and 1,200 ft with 4 inch. If they need to go to smaller holes because they are in populated areas and need less blasting material, Pellerin says he will get 1,500 ft with 3 inch and 12 ft T45 steel. Dubé likes the versatility of hole size with the ROC D9. He says in some areas From left to right: Kevin Blackburn, Bruno Dubé, and Dwayne Taylor they will get as much as 2,000 ft a day with the D9. With the versatility, the D9 also offers maneuverability. These aspects also make the rig perfect for handling presheer work. The rig can maneuver to the working face and work into a position to get the proper angle on the face. The operators like how the rigs can get into virtually any position, while Dubé adds, with the ROC D-series rigs, they “will go places others won’t go.” Pellerin agrees, saying, “The ROC D9 RRC is super stable, with a great center of gravity.” One feature Taylor pointed out to make the job go smoothly is the preheater. The preheater is set to 4:30 a.m. When he gets to work an hour later, the rig is ready to fire up so he can get right to work. He also likes the computerized footage counter. The counter tracks right to the decimal point. He laughingly comments, “I think I forgot how to write.” Dubé likes the computerized counter because he knows footage is accurate and easy to manage. Along with too many functions to mention, the computerized screen also gives exact angles of the feed. Taylor says he has checked it manually when he thought it looked off, but “the computer was right on.” 13 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA The unique style of the Atlas Copco knuckle boom allows operators to reach over obstacles and go where others won’t. With a reach of 18 ft (5.5 m), the ROC D9 can work a safe distance from a high wall. The boom can angle 30 degrees either way from center and 16 ft (5 m) below grade. Driller Steve Pellerin hits a vein of water. The pre-cleaner helps keep the dust collector from clogging up when drilling in water. While observing Pellerin drill, he hit a water vein that sent water gushing out of the hole. He quickly shut off the dust collector, and commented he really likes the pre-cleaner, as it keeps water from clogging up the dust collector system if he can’t get it shut off fast enough. All Castonguay drillers agree that the ROC rigs are their favorite rig to operate, citing different reasons, but all commented on the lack of problems as the main reason for calling the Atlas Copco drills their favorite. 14 Castonguay Last year Castonguay was acquired by Dyno Nobel. Although more corporate structure exists today, the company continues to give its customers and employees the same dedication it always has. Castonguay works all over Canada, with exceptional success in the six Quebec offices and three Ontario offices. The company has over 350 employees, focused totally on drilling and blasting for construction and quarry work. Dubé says he has a very loyal group of people. Many of the drill- ers and foremen have been with him for years. Dubé moved to Ontario in 1992 to build the business. He says, “We succeed because we service the customer locally.” He got his start with the business early, when he accompanied his driller father to the site, at just 12 years old. Times have certainly changed. Today, the company focuses on developing its people and staying close to the customer, but also, as Dubé puts it, “doing whatever job comes up.” He says training is very important, with safety being an important piece of their business. Regular communication and safety meetings are conducted with both employees and customers. In Ontario alone, Dubé says he runs 10 service trucks and 15 technicians to keep the equipment working at top performance. Castonguay will continue to grow and has additional regions in sight. Dubé says building is not difficult, “but to build a market, it’s necessary to service it right.” Atlas Copco is committed to helping Bruno Dubé and Castonguay G.P. go where they need to go – both mechanically and technically. M&C 1 08 Your Finance Partner at Work We know your business, let us finance it too. At Atlas Copco we know the drilling industry. That’s why Atlas Copco Customer Finance structures leases and loans to fit the way you do business. Whether you’re searching for longer terms or nontraditional payment schedules, we know having the right equipment for the job is what matters most. At Atlas Copco Customer Finance we design finance programs that work for you! Atlas Copco Customer Finance. Your Finance Partner. www.atlascopco.us • 1-800-732-6762 15 An Extreme Place SOUTHEAST An ExtremeALASKA Place Regionally, Southeast Alaska is an area most know little about. It rains a lot (averaging nearly 100 inches a year), has the highest cost of living in the Pacific Northwest and navi- this part of the world have “extreme lifestyles to match incredible personalities.” gation between communities is difficult and infrequent. Economically, it functions as a shipping thoroughfare between the lower 48 and the nation’s 49th state, tourism is the highlight industry with 5 to 10 cruise ships passing through daily, and it supports struggling fishing and lumber industries. I f you think you can see the “but” coming, you are right. One thing Southeast Alaska has, better than most anywhere else, is incomparable beauty. Deep blue skies and mysterious blue water are separated by majestic mountains and wispy clouds. What does this have to do with mining and construction? Well, if you can handle what makes the area so special – its remoteness – Southeast Alaska is a hot place to be for construction workers. And, for those who live here, they wouldn’t want it any other way. Chris Gerondale is the Southeast Alaska region manager for Atlas Copco’s Anchorage-based distributor, Construction 16 Machinery Industrial, LLC (CMI). Gerondale currently supports rental agreements on dozens of surface drills and a number of underground operations. Unlike any other area, CMI’s territory could be described as remote. Service calls for the region cost the company tens of thousands of dollars monthly as many calls require an airplane or a helicopter. Gerondale says, “Aside from the cost of living, the standard of living is extremely high in Southeast.” Nature is so much a part of what makes that standard so high. Activities could include fishing, crabbing, hunting or hiking. Gerondale thinks the people who choose to live in Chris Gerondale, Manager of Construction Machinery Industrial, LLC In these next few pages, we will look briefly at a few extreme projects that reflect on the beauty of Southeast Alaska. Near Juneau, Dorothy Lake is being “tapped” for its hydro-power capability while a “hiding place” is being quarried for a major infrastructure bypass. In Ketchikan, there are two major projects underway: a monumental runway extension that focuses on keeping the fish happy and a road into the wilderness that will provide development opportunities for the city. M&C 1 08 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA Juneau e Mountain Top Lake L ocated 17 miles southeast of Juneau, Alaska, servicing Lake Dorothy is no small undertaking. All crew and equipment working at the project’s “lake end” has to be brought in by helicopter. When complete, the project will be the highest head hydro project in North America. With a lake elevation of 2,440 ft and a powerhouse located at sea level, the project will generate 34.4 MW of electrical power to provide for the growing residential, business and industrial needs of the area. The project includes tunneling under the 1,138 acre lake to an outlet about 143 feet below the water’s surface. Once the drift is under the lake, the floor will be deepened to allow for the final blast material to settle to the bottom. A concrete plug will act as a cork, allowing a seal for piping and valves. Drilling within a few feet of the bottom of the lake, the charge will be placed for the final blast and the tap will be complete. The project will include a 12-ft diameter tunnel under the lake, more than 17,000 ft of 2 ft and 5 ft piping that will travel from the lake to the powerhouse, an underground penstock to resist the very high heads, and a powerhouse and switchyard bench. To give access to the glacial mountain lake and for the pipe run, a ledge is being cut into the mountain ravine that will allow travel from the lake to the powerhouse. An Atlas Copco ECM 350 air track drill was brought to the top of the mountain by helicopter and will work its way down the mountain. From the bottom, an Atlas Copco ROC D7 is working its way up the mountain. Excavators follow behind leveling the road. When service needs to be done to the ROC D7, it is brought to a staging area that allows a helicopter to land near by. A second helipad at the half-way point allows access to the ECM 350 and other equipment. M&C 1 08 Hidden Valley I n a valley surrounded by mountains, not far from Juneau’s city limits, is the Hidden Valley Quarry. Rock is being removed for Juneau’s new highway overpass. Over the next couple years, 500,000 yards of rock will be taken from this quarry to fill the needs of the project. Brian Thatcher is the man onsite with many skills. Starting off the 8-month season in March, there were many days Thatcher says he would shovel snow two-plus hours before he could start drilling. After the blaster finishes his part of the job, Thatcher returns to Hidden Quarry in the afternoon to remove the shot material. In a week, Thatcher drills about 10,000 ft, averaging 60 ft, 3-inch holes. Through the season, he expects to drill 240,000 ft with the ROC D3. Thatcher started drilling just last year and really likes operating the ROC D3. Thatcher is currently leveling a small plateau within the valley. An outcrop of trees needs to be removed so he can continue to evenly bring down the summit. Because Hidden Valley offers such a rugged landscape, Thatcher can take it right to the working edge and feel comfortable with the rig’s stability. Thatcher says, “The ROC D3 goes anywhere I want to go…it really sticks to the ground.” M&C 1 08 17 Ketchikan Ketchikan Salmon Runways T he federal government has committed dollars for airport runway extensions across the country to meet current FAA regulations, but there aren’t many airports that need to move a river to make that extension possible. Ketchikan’s airport is located across Tongass Narrows on Gravina Island, a short five minute ferry ride across the channel from the city. At the north end of the runway, a river flows into the channel, and like all rivers in this part of the world, salmon count on it for spawning. To expand the runway, the river must first be moved. To complete the project, 1.7 million yards of material will be moved in two phases. The first phase is moving the river bed. On the 3:1 slope, parallel to the runway, drilling is underway using 12 ft steel and 3½ inch bits. To move the river, the natural flow was redirected with a right turn and then a curve to the left, resulting in the mouth ending up a few hundred 18 yards up the shore line. The project was a basic borrow and fill, with extensive coordination and timing, as the rock was drilled, blasted and then moved, ultimately filling the old stream bed. The second phase is expanding the runway 500 ft. To extend the runway, borrowed material is taken parallel to the existing runway. After six months of work, 400,000 yards has been moved from the stream and 300,000 yards moved as borrow for the extension. The contractor, Secon, Inc., is using Atlas Copco ROC D7 rigs. Charlie Jewett, the project manager for Secon, likes the efficiency of the rig and says his drillers “really like the D7 because the cab keeps them out of the weather and the controls are user friendly.” Drilling is done around the clock while weather cooperates. The project began in March, 2007, and is scheduled for completion in August of 2008. M&C 1 08 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA Room to Grow T he city of Ketchikan (population 14,000) is surrounded by mountains and water. The city has about 40 miles of roads with one 30-mile paved highway running through town, dead ending at either end. To grow, the town is looking to Gravina Island, which is relatively flat. Kiewit Pacific, of Anchorage, has been awarded the contract to build a 3.2-mile road that will continue from the airport to an area approaching the West Channel of Tongass Narrows. Although reasonably flat, the crew has found the island’s terrain less than welcoming. The project has run into rock, but less rock than expected – or hoped for. In the area photographed, engineering reports indicated that there would be solid rock within 5 ft of the surface. Upon excavation, muskeg was found as deep as 12 ft. Muskeg is mud and decaying plant life that is mostly swamp, and doesn’t come close to a solid foundation. It is reported in Wikipedia on-line that 10% of Southeast Alaska is covered by muskeg. This spongy muck exists because of the region’s cool summers and high rainfall. For the project to continue, the muskeg must be relocated to an authorized dumping location. Although Alaska covers a geographic area double the size of Texas, with Southeast Alaska equaling the eastern seaboard of the US, some who live in the region are fighting to keep it as natural as possible. Going through the process of ob- taining permits to relocate the muskeg put the project a month behind schedule. The project is permitted to stay within a boundary and leave all other land undisturbed. Plastic fencing barriers have been placed along the road’s future path to contain any runoff into the pristine muskeg wilderness. Kiewit uses ECM 660II rigs for the drilling work. The operators like the simplicity of their operation and the rigs give them the hole size and depth needed. Service and support is also a big reason for using these rigs, which are provided by Atlas Copco dealer CMI. “CMI has a unique service & product support situation with its customers in Southeast Alaska,” says Ketchikan Sales & PSSR., Brian Elliot. “As a company wide entity, we strive to meet those customers’ needs.” Currently, there are about 30 surface drills working in Southeast Alaska. With 24 rentals in the region, CMI stays busy servicing its equipment. Elliot says it’s common to spend 20 hours a month on a float plane making service calls, and helicopter parts delivery and service calls are also frequent. M&C 1 08 19 Norway Accurate Drilling in with Hole Navigation Norwegian contractor, Mesta, is improving the efficiency of its blasting operations at the Romarheim road improvement project, 31 miles (50 km) northeast of Bergen, Norway. Using Atlas Copco ROC D7C GPS-guided drill rigs, Mesta is achieving a level of speed and accuracy with drilling and blasting that is resulting in a reduction in the traffic disruption normally associated with this type of operation. This is proving critical to keeping this important road open for traffic in the absence of an alternative route. 20 System T MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA he $27 million (EUR18.5 million) cause it is now too narrow for the amount Romarheim road improvement projof traffic it has, and is subject to dangerect represents the first application of ous rockslides in winter. Blasting takes the Hole Navigation System (HNS) for place every day, and safety is paramount. surface drilling on a construction project. Each time a blast is scheduled, Mesta To facilitate the project, a Hole Navigahas to close the road for one hour for the tion System was retrofitted to a ROC D7C clean-up operation. rig, originally supplied to Mesta in 2005. The HNS can be used on any type of As the ROC D7C was the forerunner Atlas Copco SmartRig. It features real of the current SmartRig range of rigs, it was already prepared for upgrading with the new technology. Mesta is typical of Norwegian contractors, who are quick to adopt innovative drilling technologies. The Romarheim road development involves construction of 4.5 miles (7.2 km) of new road, which requires blasting some 300,000 cubic yds (225,000 cubic m) of rock and moving 460,000 cubic yds (350,000 cu. m) of earth. The overburden has to be shifted along the existing narrow road, a logistically difficult task because the contractor’s trucks have to operate at the same time as normal traffic is flowing. The job also includes a 1,000 yd. (950 m) tunnel and four small bridges. The tunnel will have two lanes, and will have a cross-section capable of accomReal time GPS information is downloaded to the SmartRig. modating large trucks. For much of its length, the gradient time (RTK) GPS, offering accuracy rangwill be 4%, with a stretch of 6% gradiing from +/-4 in. (100 mm) to +/-2 in. (50 ent before entering the portal where there mm), depending on the number of satelwill be an additional lane for heavy, slowlites that are in view. The customer supmoving vehicles. plies the external GPS equipment such as the receivers, antennas and modems. Safety Paramount Around 2½ miles (4 km) of the new road runs along the line of the existing road, although the new stretch will be raised on a bed of rock blasted from the cuttings. The remaining 2 miles (3 km) of road, as well as the tunnel, will be completely new. The existing road is used by an average of 1,500 vehicles a day. The busy road is being upgraded be- Anmask Software On the Romarheim project, the system is using Anmask mapping software, a commonly-used tool in Norway's construction sector, as it has data on the geology of the entire country. This software requires some additional hardware, and there is an extra PC in the cab. All drilling data is taken straight from the Anmask package, so drill plans are not necessary. The display screen in the rig’s cabin shows standard codes that the operator can follow and by logging the position coordinates provided by the HNS, there is no need for road boundaries to be marked out prior to drilling the blast holes. The cab display shows exactly where each hole has to be drilled, and the software takes into account the variations in the surface height of the rig. Every time the operator repositions the drill rig for the next hole, Anmask tells the operator how deep to drill and at what angle. Level Bottom A major benefit of using HNS is that it guarantees that the bottoms of the holes are level, leaving a flat floor after blasting. Meanwhile, ensuring that the blast holes lie in the same orientation maximizes blasting efficiency and reduces the need for costly and time-consuming secondary breaking of oversized material. Parallel holes and flat benches translate into reduced use of explosives. The system also allows the operator to optimize positioning, so that the greatest number of holes can be drilled from one set-up without moving the entire rig, maximizing productivity. The combination of these advantages reduces clean-up time and cuts wear and tear on loading and hauling equipment by controlling the fragmentation of the blasted rock. In addition, floors are smoother which reduces wear on tires and transmissions. As the holes are more parallel, the risk of flyrock is also reduced, providing added safety. Documentation is improved, too, as all the data is logged and can be stored for analysis. When accuracy is important, the SmartRig Hole Navigation System will give you the detailed pattern for the job. M&C 1 08 21 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA The Granddaddy of Support for Excavation Projects Taking a street-level parking lot down vertically 65 feet in busy downtown Charlotte, NC, is a job for the professionals. Because of the variation in the formation and existing structures that need to be worked around, the process has required many types of ground engineering including: retaining walls, mini piles and soil anchors for securing the walls during excavation. T he former parking lot is in the process of becoming an 18-story Ritz Carlton hotel and a 33-story office building with a multi-level parking deck below the two structures. At one time, Hayward Baker – a Keller Company – had as many as five drilling rigs in the site. Today, there are two Atlas Copco ECM 780 rigs working at the location. “It’s a sweet rig,” says Reggie Goodchild about the ECM 780. On this project the crew has run into every kind of rock that North Carolina has to offer. Goodchild likes how the drills can handle it all. Goodchild has been with Hayward Baker since 1984 and has operated every type of equipment they have, especially drills. For the last 19 years he has been a superintendent with the company. The future structures to be built are on the end of the block with an existing parking deck on the one side, which needs to be tied, below street level, into the parking ramp yet to be built. During construction, mini piles were installed along the existing parking deck’s columns to keep the parking deck stable while excavating for the new buildings. Hayward Baker’s part of the job includes earth retention during excavation of the pit. After the material is removed, Hayward’s crew shores up the exposed wall. The grade is being taken down in five-foot lifts, using hydraulic breakers and excavators to break and shovel the rock. For the street sides of the pit, Hayward Baker installed soil nails 15 to 50 ft deep at 15 degree angles, then lagged on a wood retaining wall – 3 to 4 strand tiebacks each. The nails were tested to 28 22 KIPS after three days. Under the existing parking garage, 25 to 60 ft soil nails were installed at 20 degree angles. These bars are tested to 80 KIPS. To seal up the wall, wire mesh is wired to the rebar and shotcrete is sprayed on to finalize the process. To drill the holes, Goodchild likes the performance of the ECM 780 using a QL40 hammer. “We have had no problems drilling,” says Goodchild. In total, 800 to 1000 4½-inch holes will be drilled on the project. The job was engineered to utilize #8, #11, #14 and #18 threadbar anchors at various locations on the site. The spacing of the anchors is dependent on the formation. For example, on the east wall, anchors are installed on 5 ft centers and on 8 ft centers At the far end of the site one ECM 780 is drilling at the sublevel of the future Ritz Carlton. In the far corner shotcrete is being applied to the wall below the parking garage. At the far left the ECM is tramming down the bank after finishing a line of holes. on the west wall. When asked about Atlas Copco drills, Goodchild uses the word, “finessable.” He says, “They’re very nice and easy to run. They’re good in rough terrain and they have a very wide range of uses.” With his experience, Goodchild should know. In all, he says, “I’ve installed everything on this job, shear anchors, rock anchors, tie backs, soil nails…I’ve got it all down here.” M&C 1 08 Drill operator Jeff Riner examines his work and shows how mesh and shotcrete will finish the surface. The 4 1/2 inch hole was drilled beside the mini pile. Lazaro Melo is spraying shotcrete on the wall. The CM-780-D drills with its tracks parallel to the excavated wall and the mast perpendicular while drilling at 20% off horizontal. 23 The Tools of the Trade for CSI When Communication Services, Inc. (CSI) of Marshville, NC, needs to set fiber optic line underground for telephone service to new housing developments, they rely on the Atlas Copco 185 series air compressor to provide air for all their tools. Safety Director Wayne Maddox communicates with the other end of th Dorartes and Juventino Viveras work together to send the mule tape thr T he job at hand is to run over 3,000 feet of underground fiber optic cable through the underground conduit system that has already been installed. Most of the new subdivisions are being designed underground. “They’re running fiber all the way to the houses now,” according to Travis Brown, a hardworking foreman for CSI. Today, CSI is using an Atlas Copco HardHat XAS 185 JD7 portable compressor. Its unique polyethylene shell provides durability and the John Deere diesel engine provides reliable air for all of the tools. CSI has multiple 185 steel compressors that they use daily. Brown likes the 185 and says the “John Deere is a good engine.” Tim Collie, Regional Sales Manager for Atlas Copco Construction Tools, LLC, commented that the 185 compressor is the most common one on the market because it runs such a diversified range of tools. 24 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA Orlando Dorartes, Travis Brown, and Juventino Viveras pose in front of the HardHat 185 compressor. he conduit while Foreman Travis Brown, and Workers Orlando rough. The first tool that CSI is using is the “blow gun.” The amount of air needed for the blow gun depends on the length of pipe, the diameter of the pipe and the number of turns or resistance. Brown says he uses the 185 compressor because it’s available onsite. Brown points out a 185 cfm will work up to a certain distance then, if necessary, they may need to join up another 185 cfm unit. If the conduit is a mile long, it takes two 185s or a 350 compressor. CSI crews all have 185 cfm units. “The 185 is a good all around machine,” says Brown. The blow gun will blow mule tape or “string” to the other end of the conduit, in order for the fiber optic cable to be brought back through the conduit. The mule tape rope being used for this project is 2,500 lb test weight per square inch. Brown likes to use the mule tape only once, saying, “because it may fray” and it’s more dependable to use new. “Fire in the hole!” Brown laughingly shouts to start the string moving through the conduit, making sure to communicate with the other side. Three men are needed to keep the string moving at the right speed and tension. One man holds the spool of mule tape through a rake handle. The next man makes sure that the tension is slack on the string in order for the third worker to feed the string through the line. The worker stringing the mule tape must make sure the tension is just right or the string may bunch up. This is a hard and tedious job, since the string is heavy and the air is powerful. The Hard Hat 185 is handling the job perfectly. When the missile is at the end of the conduit, it’s time to pull it out and attach the fiber optics cable and then start the process of winching the string back through the conduit. Once the string has pulled the fiber back through the conduit, the fiber is ready to continue being strung above ground to the intended central station, or “node.” Safety is extremely important for CSI. All workers of course wear a hard hat, gloves, safety glasses, safety vests and ear plugs. Pre-inspection of all equipment is a must for CSI. There is a form that is filled out every day and signed by all who are on the site. For inspecting the 185 com- pressor, Brown checks the oil, water, and fuel levels, as well as inspecting for leaks. Other pre-inspection safety assessments include: looking for hazards on the job such as traffic or power lines, looking at the conditions of the weather and ground, making sure that traffic signs and cones are posted as necessary. Wayne Maddox, Safety Director at CSI, states, “We’re all on the same team.” Working together as a team is what CSI did to finish the job of bringing fiber optic cable the 3000 plus feet through the underground conduit system. Interestingly, Brown retired from a power company in California after 30 years on the job and “retired” to North Carolina. Brown decided to go back to work because “you can only fish so much.” Maddox commented that Brown knows his stuff and gets the job done, using the right tools and the right compressor – Atlas Copco’s 185 JD7 M&C 1 08 Hardhat. 25 New York Style Solution The word “Manhattan” translates from the Lenape language as “island of many hills.” The island of Manhattan in New York City doesn’t have many hills any longer. Over the centuries, massive amounts of rock have been removed and excavated to create one of the largest commercial, financial and cultural centers in the world. John S. Civetta of Civetta & Sons, Inc., specialists in excavation and foundations from the Bronx, N.Y., is following in the tradition of removing rock from Manhattan, only he is doing it a bit differently. 26 W hen an old eight-story building on the corner of Madison Avenue and 53rd Street was demolished to make way for a 30-story building with 350,000 square feet of office space, Civetta was called on to remove rock 20 to 35 feet below the city surface. Since 2001, blasting in Manhattan has become a cumbersome process, and since the rock Civetta had to move was near a subway tunnel, he had to be creative. To crack the rock he turned to a chemical product called Da-mite. “Everybody is still blasting, but we are experimenting with this,” Civetta said. To drill all the holes necessary for excavation, Civetta turned to an ECM-590 drill from Atlas Copco. The ECM-590 was a much-needed upgrade for Civetta. He had been using a first-generation hydraulic drill. To pull off the job on Madison Ave., Civetta needed a versatile, yet powerful drill. Not only would he be drilling hundreds of 2½-inch holes – 15 feet deep – to hold the chemical mixture that would break up the bulk of the rock, he needed a drill that could line drill 4inch holes eight inches apart around the perimeter of the foundation. A sizeable MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA undertaking for any drill, but the ECM590 handled it without a problem. “This drill is great. It is so much better than the old one we had, and we keep it running all the time. We drill holes for the chemical and while that is heating up, because it has to sit a while, then we line drill around the foundation,” Civetta said. Drilling in the rock of Manhattan is a challenge. The pegmatite and Manhattan schist that support large concentrations of skyscrapers is extremely hard. “That rock over there, you can stand on that with a hammer all day and you’re not going to get anywhere,” Civetta said. “The rock, it doesn’t get much harder than it is, and that’s what we’ve got.” The Daigh Company of Georgia distributes Da-mite, a highly expansive, rock-splitting mortar. When it is mixed and poured into a hole, it creates 18,00020,000 psi of pressure after 24 hours. If it sits for several days, 40,000-50,000 psi of breaking force can be generated. Civetta required every psi the chemical could muster. Holes for the chemical were generally drilled 2½ feet apart for most of the project. Civetta said in softer rock the spacing can be opened up to cre- ate a larger pattern, but there isn’t much soft rock in Manhattan. After the chemical is in the hole, a large steel slug is placed in the hole and blasting mats are placed over the area. After the rock cracks, it is hit with a 12,000-pound hammer to break it into pieces. The ECM-590 was part of a rental purchase agreement in which some of the rental payment is used as equity for a down payment. The financial arrangement is just one of several flexible financial solutions offered by Atlas Copco Customer Finance. As the ECM-590 revved its engine at the site on Madison Ave., Civetta was standing at the edge of the foundation his crew was creating in Midtown Manhattan when asked how he liked working in the city. “It’s crazy. You know, to get the equipment down here, and even to get in and out of the city each day, it’s crazy,” Civetta said. Then as he looked at the glass, steel and stone buildings, knowing he is a part of the construction tradition towering around him, he added, “How can you not love it?” M&C 1 08 The ECM-590 drill is hard at work here. 27 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA Latest ROC Series Cabins Unveiled Atlas Copco’s ROC series of surface drill rigs will benefit from this new cabin design, which features increased operator space, improved comfort and even higher levels of safety. W hen Atlas Copco designed the new cabins for the ROC series of surface drill rigs, the operator was in the forefront of its mind. Despite a great many other considerations, the design team had no doubt that “the next generation” workplace could only be achieved by talking with and listening to the professionals who would ultimately occupy it. The design challenge behind the new cabins was to achieve increased operator space and the overall in-cab environment while simultaneously improving ergonomics. The resulting design achieves all of these objectives, further increasing the effectiveness of the well-proven ROC series drill rigs. Better View The design changes led to improved visibility, which in turn contributes to safety. The large windows give good, all-around visibility and the front windscreen is slanted inwards, which helps to keep off the rain and dust. This design, together with the new skylight in the roof and repositioned instrument panel, enables the operator to see the whole drilling process, from surface collaring to the top of the feed. The forward-angled front window of the cabin also reduces the amount of dust that can accumulate on the surface. A number of glazing options are available, including clear or tinted laminated panes, as well as approximately an inch-wide (24 mm) pane that provides extra protection against stone throws. Better Ergonomics Free space around the operator has been significantly increased, while a range of smart storage solutions have been built into the cabin’s interior. This includes a document holder, bottle and cup holders, room for a hotplate and a cooler, larger storage and durable trays. 28 Easier access to the cabin has been achieved by moving the door to the front of the cabin. This greatly improves access and also makes it easier to step across to the front service platform from where the operator can clean the windshield and roof glass or change the wiper blades. The design team took notice to the observation that the previous cab models were difficult to keep clean and fit the new cab with single-molded rubber mats, designed so that dust and debris can be easily swept out the door. The operator’s seat is fully adjustable and ergonomic placement of joystick controls for drill-and rod-handling operations are designed to minimize fatigue and maximize comfort. To the operator’s right, a side-mounted rail is included for the easy adjustment of monitors for rig control systems, reverse camera or DVD viewing as well as an easy-to-reach, touch control panel for supporting functions. Better Working Environment As operators often have to remain in their cabs for lengthy shifts, the designers have paid close attention to ergonomics and comfort. The cabins feature an improved ventilation system that includes a relocated air intake, two-stage filtering and more efficient heating and air conditioning capable of maintaining a pleasant working environment, even in the harshest climates. In addition to highly effective noise and vibration insulation, the new cabins offer increased protection, easily exceeding ROPS and FOPS requirements 20 tons (19 tonnes) for the D-series and 33 tons (30 tonnes) for the F- and L-series. Simpler Maintenance These cabins have also been built with ease of maintenance in mind. Design details including an easy-to-change air filter at ground level, a service platform that allows access to the window for cleaning and changing wiper blades and also doubles as a toolbox, and an all-inone molded floor mat for regular cleaning are just some of the innovations built into the cabins. Looking to the Future The new cabs are already available on all ROC D- and ROC F-series rigs and are expected to be on the ROC L-series by the end of this year. There’s no denying that the new cab is a major all-around improvement on previous models. A great deal of time has been spent on testing, not only involving operators but also service personnel, marketing and sales representatives as well as distributors and importers. Their input has heavily influenced all aspects of the design process, with the aim of making the final product as good as it can be. M&C 1 08 29 MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA FIRST IMPRESSIONS M&C tested the initial response to the new Initial response to the new cabs has been positive. Björn Nordahn in his SmartRig ROC D9C. cab among some experienced Swedish rig operators. Here, one of them gives his view. B jörn Nordahn operates an Atlas Copco SmartRig ROC D9C, fitted with the new cab, for contractor Bohus Bergsprängning AB. Here are his thoughts about the new cab: This new cab is a big improvement. The extra space is great. There’s room for everything, from lunch-box and stove to sprays and drill bits. Some of my colleagues say it’s now so big that it echoes! I think the controls are now positioned much better. It’s really very easy to get to “The new cab is a big improvement.” Björn Nordahn, operator, Bohus Bergsprängning AB. them when you want to change the angle of the boom or drive the rig to the next hole. I think the repositioning of the controls is the best improvement. The placing of the control buttons is good too, but I prefer small switches as it can be difficult to feel your way across the smooth buttons to the find the right one. This can be a bit tricky when, for example, you are using the rig’s support legs and you need to have your eyes totally focused on what you are doing. I have only had this rig over the summer this year, so I can’t say anything yet about the climate control system, but the air conditioning has worked well. It’s also easy to keep this cab clean – and the vacuum cleaner is a great idea! We thought it was so good that we have also installed one in our ROC D7. And it’s easy to keep the storage compartments clean because they are large and straight. In the old cab there was just a little place at the front where you could put a 30 few tools down temporarily. Now there’s a whole toolbox there, which is great. Allin-all, I think the new cab is good, even though there are a few small things that can still be improved. It’s almost too easy and can make you a bit lazy. Almost everything is automatic so once you’ve thought about the job, ground the bits and cleaned up – there’s not much left to do! Maite Santamarta, application engineer at Atlas Copco in Spain, confirms that the new cab is a winner among operators in Spain. “All our customers are very happy with the new cab because it is “All of our customers in Spain are very happy with the new cab.” Maite Santamarta Application Engineer Atlas Copco Spain. just so comfortable,” she says. “Another advantage is the placing of the steps and grab-rails on the door. They make it very easy and safe to climb in and out of the cabin. The air conditioning is good too and everyone is very happy with the new positioning of the joysticks.” M&C 1 08 FROM CABS TO OPEN AIR NOT ALL OF Atlas Copco’s hydraulic surface drill rigs have cabs. ROC D3, ROC D7RRC and ROC D9RRC are all “open air” rigs. These also vary in the way they are used. RRC rigs, for example, are operated via radio remote control while on other versions, the operator stands up on the rig to operate it. Compressed air-driven rigs vary even more and can require up to three operators. The ROC D3, one of several rigs in the Atlas Copco range of cabless crawlers. Designed for drilling in urban areas in rough terrain, the ROC D3 handles 15/8"–31/2" (41–89 mm) holes. The rig was upgraded this year with a more powerful engine (116 kW Cummins QSB4.5), rock drill (COP 1640 or 1240) and compressor (8.5 bar). MINING & CONSTRUCTION USA Symmetrix Supports Yankee Stadium Those of you out there who love the New York Yankees will have a new home in which to cheer them on next year. Regardless of whether you’re there to root for the home team or would like to see the Yankees get pummeled, be assured the foundation of the new $1 billion ballpark is solid under your feet. T o support the foundation of the new park, Underpinning & Foundation, Skanska, has installed two different types of drilled piles on the project to date. For support of excavation (SOE), 12¾ inch piles were used and for foundation support, 95/8 inch mini piles were needed. In total, about 235 drilled piles have been installed. For the SOE portion of the job, the process included drilling the soldier piles 30 ft deep, then excavating, and finally lagging timbers in place. For the foundation piles, a series of piles were grouped for the future footings. These were up to 120 ft deep with 20 ft rock sockets. The hammer used was an Atlas Copco DHD 380 with the STD 324 Symmetrix system for the SOE piles. Symmetrix was used because of its ability to drill through the overburden and leave the pile in place in just one pass. Time and speed are critical for Underpinning. Doug Maffei, project executive for Underpinning, really likes using Symmetrix. “It’s a good thing that you can set up once and bring it home, then go to the next one. [Symmetrix] goes through almost any obstruction,” emphasizes Maffei. Underpinning has been using Symmetrix for a number of years, and projects for Symmetrix are becoming more frequent. Maffei says, “I would use it every time in this application if I could.” Keystone Drill Services, out of Somerset, Pa., is the distributor for the Atlas Copco Ground Engineering Products being sold and serviced to Skanska, Underpinning and Foundation Contractors. Kevin Goliwas is Keystone’s sales engineer, who designs and sells the Symmetrix systems, which Keystone stocks in the Northeast. He sees the Symmetrix becoming more popular because of the efficiency of the systems. driven in a day to as many as 35 a day using Symmetrix. On another job, he said it took 3 days per driven pile and just 20 minutes per Symmetrix! “The ring cost is nothing compared to the cost of labor,” he says. Hislop also helps contractors outfit their drills to work with Symmetrix. “Most drills can be outfitted to install Symmetrix. Even cranes are becoming more common,” he says. If a drill is rigged up for micro piles, it can be made to work. This winter the parking structure phase of the Yankee Stadium project is beginning. This is much larger in scale, requiring 285 10¾ inch piles. Opening game, 2009, will be the beginning of many new memories for Yankee fans, and Atlas Copco and Underpinning & Foundations, Skanska, can say they’ve been there since the beginning. There will be many winners and losers in the future who walk on and off the new Yankee field, but if you’re into foundation work, you can be assured that Symmetrix can certainly make you a winner every time! M&C 1 08 Time Is Money “The project benefited from significant time savings,” says Maffei. Time has been the big advantage for most contractors. John Hislop is responsible for technical support in the United States for the Symmetrix products. He says that in most instances, time is an issue. One highway job went from 2-4 piles Doug Maffei is the project manager for Underpinning. Symmetrix mini piles are used in support of excavation. 31 31 31 BO O Smart. Tough. Powerful. With innovations ranging from the intelligent to the durable to the flat-out earth-shattering, Atlas Copco has job site solutions you’ll want to see at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2008. SMART. Automated, silenced and guided by GPS, the SmartRig ROC D9C offers increased productivity and accuracy, and the facility to drill in sound-sensitive areas. TOUGH. Built with a double-walled polyethylene shell to withstand the rigors of the job site, the XAS 185 HardHat compressor provides excellent durability. POWERFUL. Weighing in at an impressive 10 metric tons, the HB 10000 hydraulic breaker with ProCare™ brings a whole new definition to power. Atlas Copco provides not only superior productivity products but also service and parts programs to maintain superior productivity. Committed To Your Superior Productivity For more information contact: 800-732-6762 Atlas Copco Construction Mining Technique 800-232-3234 Atlas Copco Compressors 800-760-4049 Atlas Copco Construction Tools www.atlascopco.us TH C7 32 1