Japanese manufacturer Furukawa Rock Drills (FRD) has released its new hydraulic crawler drill hammer, which it says is designed to be more cost-effective and economical.

The company says its FRD HCRL100-E3 crawler drill has been developed especially for local operating conditions.

The new model is an update of the previous FRD HCR 1500 ED-II drill which is widely used on mines, quarries and construction sites across the region. The updates were brought about through operational input and feedback from FRD’s long-time distribution partner, ELB Equipment.

The company’s national product manager James Linton says the latest adaptations are aimed at improving performance, speed and cost per metre drilled and have been implemented based on customers’ feedback and the company’s experience in the field across Africa.

Linton explains that the updated model has a more powerful 280 kW engine and larger compressor to enable better efficiency at reduced revolutions per minute. Its super economy mode is designed to use power only when needed, with automatic throttle control and idling plus compressor low-pressure standby. He says this reduces fuel consumption by up to 8.5% and enables more power to be directed towards increased speed and more metres drilled per shift, using drill bits up to 127 mm diameter.

He adds that with the unit’s Intelligent Drilling System (IDS) engaged it will only use as much power as is needed, to save fuel and minimise unnecessary wear and tear on the system. The machine is designed to be easy to maintain and ensure maximum productivity.

“It’s simplicity runs all the way to the controls and cab that gives operators a commanding view of every parameter of the operation in progress, with smart controls complemented by inputs from the IDS system. The cab is ergonomically designed to provide the operators with a productive workspace with air conditioning and other comfort features allowing the operator to remain alert and productive throughout, while safety features are in line with local requirements,” says Linton.

He concludes that the FRD HCRL100-E3 crawler drill rig is designed to be tough, reliable and affordable, with its main selling point being its high productivity rate and reliability in challenging conditions.