Features

How Brokk is boosting productivity in underground mines

Demolition work requires equipment that is tough, powerful and safe, qualities that underpin Brokk’s range of remote-controlled industrial platforms.

Since the early 1980s, Brokk has been at the forefront of developing a range of highly advanced demolition robots for use across multiple industrial applications globally.

The company has supported everything from mining, tunnelling and construction projects to metal and cement processing to nuclear power plant service and maintenance and decommissioning activities. 

Brokk’s range of groundbreaking and reliable demolition robots provides unique characteristics and countless options for a number of industry applications. 

Operating with maximum power on minimum energy input, the robots feature optimal real-life ergonomics and many unique characteristics suited for harsh environments, significant stability and advanced radio technology, easy on-site servicing, and an array of accessories and configurations. 

The compact design of Brokk’s demolition robots means they can easily access confined spaces without compromising on power and safety. They also carry various attachments that do not emit exhaust fumes.

“The Australian market currently has over 200 Brokk robots in operation across mining, tunnelling and construction projects, along with other potential applications, including the Australian Defence Force, where our technologically-advanced equipment could be utilised in the future,” Brokk Australia managing director Will Visser told Australian Resources & Investment.

Brokk’s demolition robots are compact, enabling easy access to confined spaces.

Mining

Brokk provides both mobile and fixed plant solutions for the mining industry. 

The company’s demolition robots can perform various mining-related tasks such as scaling, oversize rock-breaking, digging, drilling, secondary breaking, scaling bottom shaft cleaning and many other duties.

The fixed pedestal boom is a compact, stationary breaker system for the mining and aggregates industry and is designed to operate in low headspace and hard-to-access areas as low as 1.83m.

The unit has precision hydraulics and is easy to operate with modern controls and 360° slewing thanks to its unique three-part arm system and a reach up to 8.5m. This allows it to cover a large part of the grizzly to deal with any odd-shaped and oversized rocks.

Mobile solutions provide versatility that can streamline mining operations and limit emissions, allowing operators to move between different attachments and much larger tools without needing to increase shaft size.

Brokk prides itself on its open innovation practices and ability to solve complex problems on behalf of its customers. 

“A customer will come to us with unique challenges, usually due to safety or environmental concerns,” Visser said. 

“With the strength of our global company, manufacturing capabilities and the versatility of our machines and attachments, we are able to find solutions to complex problems for our customers, which often challenge other suppliers. 

Visser said Brokk’s machine is one-of-a-kind system that is currently in use in many mining applications worldwide.

“It’s compact, robust and versatile, and you can operate it under the harshest of mining conditions,” he said.

“Operators love this machine, as it can be manoeuvred into confined and difficult-to-access spaces reducing safety risks and increasing productivity.”

Safety

Safety is at the heart of the remote-control technology underpinning Brokk’s demolition robots. 

Inherent hazards and risks associated with underground mining – such as falling material and other dangerous events – can be reduced by deploying demolition robots into mining applications, significantly improving safety outcomes.

“Brokk is always engaged in open discussions with mining operations around safety,” Visser said.

“We want to improve safety and remove people from hazardous places and the company is 100 per cent focused on making Australian underground mines less hazardous.

“Brokk’s stabilised remote-controlled demolition robots, employing a sturdy track system with well-protected cylinders, are a safe and more effective way to carry out several key tasks in underground mining applications.

“Operators working remotely with the Brokk demolition robot are removed from any physical harm, and the machine improves productivity at the same time.”

All robots are remotely operated and feature Brokk’s SmartRemote technology.

Technology

All systems are remotely operated and feature Brokk’s SmartRemote technology. The standard remote operation solution features an ergonomic and intuitive remote control and allows the operator to maintain a safe distance with a range capacity of up to 300m.

The networked remote operation solution allows operators to control the robot while sitting in a control room. The machine is connected and operated over ethernet or Wi-Fi and can be operated from 2000m away or further with enhanced network configuration.

An ergonomic Brokk control station with integrated controls and video screens enables video and audio feedback, enhancing the operator experience and optimising operability.

Brokk’s SmartPower technology provides intelligent power management with a unique electric powertrain that increases the robot’s output. 

The original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) continued investment in research and development (R&D) over the last 40 years has resulted in continuous improvement to the machines. 

Compared to other systems on the market, the robot’s electrical design components and contacts have been reduced to a minimum. Brokk’s electrical system and components are designed to withstand extreme vibrations, dust and rough handling.

Brokk’s SmartDesign ensures service and maintenance are streamlined, minimising machine downtime. 

Daily and weekly maintenance can be carried out without lifting a machine cover. For example, all greasing points, including the breaker grease refill, are easily accessed from the outside. 

Hose replacement on a Brokk machine sees simple outrigger hoses be divided, which means only short sections need replacement if damaged. These design improvements help to ensure machine maintenance is efficient and easy to carry out.

After-sales

Operating a global network, Brokk focuses on providing its customers with reliable and knowledgeable after-sales service and support.

“Our demolition robots are working in underground mining environments throughout the world, successfully improving safety, maximising productivity and reducing repair and maintenance costs,” Visser said.

When it comes to supporting service technicians, Brokk has incorporated technology that reduces the risk to personnel operating in these often-confined sites. 

Brokk Connect is an online platform developed for connected Brokk demolition robots and designed to simplify the management and care of the machine. 

The software enables customers to locate and manage their entire robot fleet, providing real-time data to manage operating and maintenance requirements while maximising productivity. 

Brokk also provides specialised training courses for both Brokk operators and service personnel. The Brokk Academy also works as a practical guide for expanding the application of the robot with the addition of other attachments. 

This feature appeared in the October issue of Australian Resources & Investment.

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