Installing roof bolts in low hard rock applications where both difficult terrain and extreme mining conditions exist requires a safe reliable, versatile and manoeuvrable roof bolter. This is just the operating role of DBT Africa's Fletcher ADO-D/E; a low profile, single-head arm feed roof bolter that offers the option of either a diesel or electric power. The Fletcher ADO-D/E is capable of tramming and bolting using either the diesel or electric power option, making it an extremely versatile machine.

The arm feed drilling mechanism was developed specifically for low working heights and DBT Africa says this machine has the lowest and shortest profile of any comparable drilling system. It can operate in working heights from 1.5 to 2.5 m. It features four-wheel drive, articulated steering, vertical articulation and an oscillating axle allowing it to negotiate the most difficult paths.

With safety and not just operating flexibility in mind, the Fletcher ADO-D/E is equipped with an Automated Temporary Roof Support (ATRS) system that provides protection for the operator. This combined with dual controls and structurally sound certified canopies ensure increased levels of safety during operation. The boom swing and extension on the machine enable several bolts to be installed from a single chassis position. The positioning and ATRS controls are located adjacent to the drilling controls so that the bolter can be quickly repositioned to commence installation of the next row of bolts.

The versatile stackable drilling system enables the bolter to drill 26 mm diameter holes, and when used with a 20 mm resin bolt the resultant annulus provides a high quality and cost effective bolt installation. The high torque drill head is able to correctly tension the roof bolt to the required loading by applying a torque from between 0 to 400 Nm.

Low maintenance requirements have been proven in the field. For example one Fletcher ADO-D/E has been operational in a South African platinum mine for three years, and is still using its original drill head. www.dbt.de

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