Atlas Copco’s new Explorac 235 is designed specifically for reverse circulation drilling and other down-the-hole drilling (DTH) applications. It is suitable for exploration drilling down to more than 400 m, and is available for assembly on a truck or crawler chassis.
Reverse circulation is gaining ground as a preferred technology to collect quality samples in initial exploration, ore body development and in-pit grade control due to its cost efficiency and fast collection of dry, quality samples.
“The launch of Explorac 235 is a firm response to increasing demand for personal safety and environmental care. It offers the efficiency and performance required by contractors, such as fast setup and drilling speeds, easy maintenance, reduced noise levels and minimum oil spillage, and enables the collection of high-quality samples requested by geologists,” said Martin Sommers, vice president marketing – Capital Equipment at Atlas Copco Geotechnical Drilling and Exploration division. “This launch is the first of several initiatives that will strengthen our position in the reverse circulation segment.”
Customers are offered improved efficiency, personal safety, reliability, ease of service and environmental friendliness. Atlas Copco can provide a complete solution for reverse circulation drilling, including drilling rig, compressor, booster and drill string.
The Explorac 235 is based on well-proven technology. It is an upgraded version of the Explorac 220RC rig, Atlas Copco’s first rig designed specifically for reverse circulation. The Explorac 235 comes with several improvements compared to the Explorac 220RC, including:
- A new rod handler developed by Atlas Copco.
- 35 bar air pressure compared to the previous 30 bars.
- A new and improved rig control system, RCS4.
Atlas Copco, www.atlascopco.us