Boart Longyear, the world’s leading integrated exploration drilling services, equipment and performance tooling provider, has released their next generation surface exploration drill rig, the LF™120A. The semi-automated drill rig features a hands-free operating system and self-monitoring technology that provides increased safety and gains in overall productivity.
LF120A Surface Drill Rig
“The LF120A was designed for drilling contractors who want to differentiate their exploration program by focusing on safety, information and an advanced-level of automation,” said Sid Gaitonde, Boart Longyear global product manager.
CANBUS technology is central to the LF120A for self-monitoring and efficient rig operation. The system’s large LCD screen leads operators through start-up, drilling and troubleshooting procedures.
Common mistakes are avoided when the system alerts operators when defined parameters are broken. Self-monitoring valves provide real-time status information to operators.
“The intelligent PC-based operating system displays bit weight and landing indication while also reducing fuel consumption by about 25 percent compared to similar rigs in its class,” added Gaitonde. “This allows for reduced fuel related costs, less pollution/carbon footprint and makes life easier in remote areas where access for fuel trucks is difficult.”
The LF120A surface coring rig also features the industry’s first truly hands-free rod handling system which comprises a rod handler, an auto-adjusting breakout tool and an innovative hoist plug spinner.
“Separating the operator from the moving parts of the drill is a key focus for Boart Longyear, as it decreases the probability for accidents on site,” added Gaitonde. “The rod handler incorporates a wireless remote, which places the operator in a safe position.”
The rod handler provides 270-degree pick-up capability, 2-meter height adjustment, 180-degree rollover and 100-degree slew. This level of flexibility allows the handler to access the rod supply regardless of where rods are located around the drill.
The rod handler is equipped with fail-safe jaws and level sensors that limit release positions and prevent accidental rod drops. The LF120A easily manages both 3-meter and 6-meter rods in sizes ranging from BQ to PQ.
The LF120A also introduces an open-face mast design, which encloses rotating parts and applies unified guarding at the operator’s level, greatly increasing safety. The LF120A depth capacity of 1200m NQ with a pullback of 16,000 kg (35,872 lb) and a hoist capacity of 9,071 kg (20,000 lb). The rig can be jack, skid, truck, or crawler mounted to match the portability needs of the contractor.
To learn more about the LF120A, visit http://www.boartlongyear.com/LF120A.