Komatsu charges forward with battery-electric versions of drilling and bolting rigs
Komatsu has introduced the second generation of its Z2 small-class development drill and bolting equipment. This latest generation has unique enhancements and additions, including the first battery-electric offerings within Komatsu's underground hard rock portfolio, a pumpable resin system solution, optimized ergonomics, and more.
The small-class ZJ21 jumbo drill and ZB21 bolter were initially launched in 2020 with a common platform. The new Z2 bolters and jumbos also feature optimized operator ergonomics, intuitive controls, and ideal ground-level maintenance.
The second generation ZB21 is a small-class bolter featuring a fully enclosed ROPS/FOPS-certified operator cabin, intuitive operator controls, integrated screen handling, and drifters manufactured by Montabert.
The bolter also introduces an optional Komatsu pumpable resin system using J-LOK P by Jennmar. The solution allows resin to be pumped into the drilled hole before bolt installation, permitting the use of more economical bolts and helping to decrease overall installed cost.
The second generation ZJ21 jumbo drill is a single-boom development drill with a fully enclosed ROPS/FOPS-certified operator cabin, improved drilling feeds, advanced pilot hydraulics, and drifters manufactured by Montabert.
Both product lines now include battery-electric versions featuring Komatsu's approach to BEV with onboard, smart, opportunistic charging and designed for integration and compatibility with existing mine infrastructure. Komatsu says that the ZB21 and ZJ21 are the smallest size-class drills and bolters to offer a BEV option. These machines feature a modular battery driveline with 83kWh of onboard energy designed for demanding tram cycles and the challenges of hard rock mining.
"As underground mining operations increasingly shift toward electrification of their fleets, our innovative, battery-powered Z2 jumbo drills and bolters will support that pivotal transition. By integrating into existing infrastructure, we can help enhance productivity while helping to reduce operating costs," said Johan Kempe, product director for underground drilling at Komatsu. "The rollout of our second generation Z2-class marks a milestone in our commitment to advancing mining technologies and building upon the proven success of our products to empower the future of mine operators."
