Boart Longyear has improved safety features, track mounting on its latest integrated mineral exploration drilling rig.
With a more compact design the LX11 is an addition to the existing line of the company’s multipurpose LX^ and LX16 drilling rigs.
The medium sized LX11 is capable of performing both reverse circulation (RC) and diamond core drilling, enabling exploration drillers to use just one drill rig in various ground conditions.
This also lowers initial capital investment and eliminates the need to switch rigs to match drilling conditions.
“The multipurpose LX11 drilling rig is the culmination of many years of hands-on experience, advanced engineering and field testing,” Justin Warren, Boart Longyear global product manager said.
“The versatility of the LX11 allows drilling contractors the ability to supplement the roles of multiple rigs with the simplicity of one, saving on equipment costs.”
This drill rig can reach depths of up to 1,450 meters using NQ rods via diamond drilling and depths of 325 meters using 114-millimeter rods via RC drilling.
The LX11 also purports to increase productivity by enlisting a 7.2 meter mast and a top drive head which allows for 6-meter rods to be pulled directly under the head.
The top drive single rotary drill head features 1,200 rpm and has a maximum torque of 7.8 kNm (5,800 ft-lbf) at 100 rpm.
The LX11 also incorporates a number of safety features, including a strategically placed control panel for enhanced visibility, remote control operation so the rig may be driven at a safe distance, and an interlocked safety cage to protect drillers from the rotating drill string.
As an optional extra the LX11 can be equipped with a rod handler to assist with the safe and efficient handling of both RC and diamond coring rods.
The compact design of the LX11 simplifies both site access and manoeuvrability.
It is also designed to fit into a 12 meter high cube container, making transportation of the rig more economical.
The improved track mounting not only lowers the environmental impact of the rig it also enhances the mobility of the LX11 as it can now handle steeper grades.