Epiroc launched its ET line of drill string components, which includes the ET66, ET45 and ET38.
Developed over five years, Epiroc says the new drill strings provide enhanced tophammer drilling efficiency and reliability.
The line of drill strings is stronger and stiffer than previous versions, the company adds, and it minimizes unplanned stops due to drill string failure. Additionally, the tube’s shoulder drive can transfer more energy into the rock, reducing vibration in the drill string and rig.
“This is the first launch of the complete Epiroc ET drill string family, a high-precision tube-drilling system that will streamline every aspect of mining,” says Fredrik Gransell, head of product marketing for Epiroc’s tools division. “By transitioning to this next generation of ore drilling tools, our customers will rapidly improve their yearly utilization rates and gain heightened profitability.”
The Epiroc ET66, ET45 and ET38 drill strings can be integrated with existing Epiroc drill rig fleets to boost operational efficiencies. In addition to enhanced durability, the tubes have a new thread geometry that ensures easier uncoupling and fewer stuck tubes – improving drill time, uptime and operator safety, according to Epiroc.
“The messaging when launching the Epiroc ET drill strings was a no-brainer to come up with,” says Fredrik Ternström, head of strategic communication for Epiroc’s tools division. “It all boils down to this: Everybody loves uptime. That translates into customer benefits like maximized utilization rate, ease of use and increased profitability. And, as always, we keep a strong focus on the operator.”
Epiroc will showcase the new ET66 drill string Sept. 24–26 at MINExpo International in Las Vegas, along with other new products.
