Boart Longyear has introduced the MDR700, its next-generation underground coring rig designed to provide wide drilling angles; quick and easy setup, operation and maintenance; advanced mobility; and engineered safety controls. The rig features sophisticated articulation capabilities, with three turning points that allow operators to drill 270 degrees horizontally, and both up and down vertically. The MDR700 also allows drilling in a spherical mode without need to reposition the unit. Setup, according to the company, is quick and easy with the fully hydraulic positioning system and handheld remote controller. Rig moves are faster—up to 80% quicker when compared with previous rigs—and easier with its four-wheel-drive, diesel-powered Manitou carrier. The carrier features three available steering modes—four-wheel, two-wheel and crabbing—making the rig easier and faster to maneuver underground.
The MDR700 is powered by a 90-kW electric motor and features Boart Longyear’s LMTM 700 feed frame delivering 81.4 kN of pullback force. Operating the MDR700 and the rod handler is smooth and easy when paired with the optional Drill Control Interface (DCi). The MDR700, coupled with the HQ rotation unit, handles all coring diameters up to up to HQ size. The rig also features a breakout system on the rotation unit that uses high-pressure oil and gear rack assistance to effortlessly break rod joints. Its rod handler uses innovative, high-capacity springs acting on three tungsten-carbide insert jaws, and isolates the driller from the hazards of manual rod handling. Smart hydraulics provides synchronized control between the rotation unit and the foot clamp for faster and safer rod handling. The rig’s layout also provides easy access for hydraulic servicing.
