As underground mining operations continue to evolve, mine operators are placing greater emphasis on equipment manoeuvrability, accessibility, and efficient machine positioning. For bolting equipment, these factors can directly influence productivity and a crew’s ability to effectively install ground support in varying underground conditions.
Rather than developing an entirely new machine, Cannon by Fletcher has built upon the established DPIS platform with the integration of the new KRMG3 roof bolting module and a range of design enhancements. The result Fletcher says is an evolution of a proven underground bolter platform that combines familiar operation with improved accessibility, control functionality, and bolting performance.
The KRMG3 was developed with a singular focus: improving bolter manoeuvrability underground. As the shortest bolting module currently available on the market, the KRMG3 provides operators with greater flexibility when positioning the machine, navigating work areas, and performing ground support activities in environments where available operating space can impact productivity. The DPIS serves as the launch platform for the KRMG3 bolting module, which is expected to become available across multiple Cannon bolter platforms in the future.
“Our goal with the KRMG3 was to reduce the space required for roof bolting without compromising capability,” said Steve Nye, Sales Director of Western US and Canada. “When combined with our smaller chassis platforms, it opens the door for some operations to consider mechanised bolting in
environments where equipment size has historically been a limiting factor.”
The module’s compact geometry provides immediate benefits on the DPIS platform while also creating opportunities for future applications across additional bolter configurations. The compact design of the KRMG3 allows the DPIS platform to deliver enhanced manoeuvrability without sacrificing bolting capability. The machine is capable of installing multiple bolt types while providing operators with improved flexibility when positioning and operating the equipment underground.
Complementing the KRMG3 is a dual-entry operator cabin that further enhances machine accessibility. The cabin allows operators to enter or exit from either side of the machine, providing additional flexibility in underground environments where surrounding equipment, mine layouts, or ground conditions may limit access. The design also helps operators utilise the safest and most practical point of entry or exit based on site conditions.
Together, the KRMG3 module and dual-entry cab Fletcher says create a bolting platform designed to help operators work more efficiently by improving manoeuvrability, accessibility, and machine usability underground.
The first DPIS-1-HD-KRGM3 Bolter has been delivered to the University of Arizona’s San Xavier Underground Mining Laboratory, where students, researchers, and industry partners will gain hands
on exposure to the latest developments in underground bolting technology.
The introduction KRMG3 module on the DPIS platform marks the latest addition to the DPIS product line and complements the relaunch of the DPIS-2-HED dual-boom face drill. Together, these platforms reflect Cannon by Fletcher’s continued focus on developing equipment solutions tailored to the operational challenges faced by today’s underground mines.
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