Productivity boost for SmartROC D50 DTH drill rigs

EPC Groupe score major win at limestone quarries in France with Epiroc’s latest software

EPIROC have introduced a new software update for their SmartROC D50 surface drill rigs. The package, which brings new functions and features to the Rig Control System (RCS), delivers savings through improved automation, better fuel consumption, and reduced maintenance.

French drilling contractors EPC France have already tested the new RCS software 6.29.5 and reported positive results. Currently, EPC France operate four SmartROC drill rigs from Epiroc – one SmartROC D60 and three SmartROC D50s in four different locations across the country. Their fleet also includes several Epiroc FlexiROC units.

 

After three months of testing the new software, EPC France report significant improvements in performance, productivity, and cost. Technical manager Régis Hutin said: ‘We originally chose the SmartROC D50 for its HNS (Hole Navigation System) as we were getting more and more requests from clients for better precision in blasthole drilling. We soon found that the automation on this rig was also reducing costs by about 10% through less wear on rock tools and lower fuel consumption.

‘This new software release makes it possible to get the compressed air to the hammer faster, which means the operator no longer has to manage the air flow. The air flow to the hammer is automatically regulated, ensuring that the hammer is optimized according to the rock condition.

‘We also experienced a reduction of about 5% in fuel consumption during the test period, compared with the SmartROC 50 rigs that were not equipped with the new software, and we predict an overall saving in operating costs of 15–20% a year, which is a promising start.’

Jonathan Sequin, who has been operating one of EPC France’s SmartROC D50 since May 2024, is equally impressed. Working mainly in the limestone quarries of Carrière de Dompierre and CBS in northern France, Mr Sequin has clocked more than 700h with the SmartROC D50, drilling holes 17m deep and 115mm and 127mm in diameter.

‘For me, the main difference with this rig compared with the FlexiROC that I was trained on, is all the onboard systems and advanced technology, especially the HNS hole navigation. That really won me over because it gets you set up in exactly the right position. The auto mode is also great because it enables the rig to drill all by itself. With the new software it is even better, especially the automatic air flow management system, which means I don’t have to regulate it myself.’