GroundHog has launched what it says is a state-of-the-art high-precision solution that sets a new standard for precise drilling in mining operations.
By acting as an integrator, GroundHog is looking to bring together a complete solution to streamline drilling operations. The integration includes strategically positioned base stations, RTK receivers with 20 mm accuracy, and dual antennas − ensuring optimal signal coverage. The GroundHog Operator app further enhances this approach, offering mining operators a unified solution for maximum efficiency, it says.
The distinctive feature of this solution is the integration of GroundHog visualisation, tracking drill status, hole details, consumables and additional information within the operator app. This powerful combination enables precise data collection, offering operators immediate insights into drilling processes, GroundHog says. It promotes adherence to drill plans, addresses the common challenge of data quality in drill operations and transitions from traditional pen-and-paper methods to electronic data capture for improved efficiency.
Amitava Dutta, Director − Product Operations, GroundHog, said: “Conventional drilling without precision techniques poses multiple negative impacts, with drill operators spending substantial time on drill placement. Deviations in drill holes lead to improper burden, spacing, angle and depth of drill holes which, in turn, lead to safety and productivity issues. High-precision drilling minimises these impacts, ensuring better adherence to plans and enhancing overall operational efficiency.”
The standout benefit of High Precision technology lies in its ability to get accurate equipment navigation and control even in challenging terrains or complex orebodies. Highly accurate position information allows to guide the equipment, laying the groundwork for autonomy eventually, GroundHog explained.
Data quality issues pose significant challenges in QA/QC in drill and blast operations. Any deviation from the designed parameters can impact final blasting results, affecting successive processes such as loading, hauling and crushing. Precise drilling reduces these chances of deviation, enabling improved drill productivity, optimal blast fragment size, reduced toe generation, improved excavator and truck productivity, precise sampling, and enhanced quality control of ore and crusher productivity.
