CATERPILLAR IS OFFICIALLY IN THE TRACK DRILL BUSINESS
Caterpillar has launched the MD5150 track drill, a
customer-inspired design that delivers top-of-class power and airflow for fast,
efficient drilling of holes up to 152 mm (6 inches) in diameter.
Benefiting from more than 50 years of track drill design,
the MD5150 incorporates a proven rock drill, patented carousel rod changer, new
cab and many other features that boost productivity and reduce operating costs.
Adam Davis, Hastings Deering, Product Manager – Drills and
Ancillary, said that the release of the new machine has created a buzz in the
industry. “We have spoken to a lot of customers about the machine and just what
it can do for their business.”
“Generally the industry is very impressed the new MD5150
hydraulic track drill and there has been a lot of talk about how well the
machine was finished off.”
“This drill would not be out of place drilling a production
pattern for a quarry or doing pre-splits in a hard rock mine operation. It
crosses both the quarry and the open cut hard rock mines we have in our
region.”
The carousel rod changer holds six rods and accommodates
drill steel of various lengths and diameters, reduces setup time and is
supported by a sturdy feed boom with length of 2.4 m and a maximum extension –
3.3 m. Powered by a Tier 3 Cat® C11 engine producing 385 hp at 1,800 rpm, the
MD5150 is equipped with a smart drill monitoring system that monitors rock
changes and automatically adjusts the feed pressure and impact depending on hardness
of the rock.
The drill promises high reliability, long life and low
ownership costs. With less than half as many moving parts as competitive rock
drills, it is a simple, reliable design that offers dependable performance and
exceptional usability.
To further improve operator productivity, the machines
system features anti-jam, anti-plunge and anti-plug capabilities that keep the
track drill working efficiently and extend drill string life.
Production started on Cat track drills after the Bucyrus
acquisition, and teams are working on fully integrating them into the
Caterpillar line-up. Caterpillar chose to release the MD5150 to the industry at
The Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA) annual conference held in
Townsville.
Making himself available to unveil the machine was Jeffrey
Dudley, Caterpillar Drill factory representative all the way from Denison,
Texas.
Taking a lot questions with people showing interest in the
history of the machine and how it was born into the product line, the drill was
received well by delegates.
“We had Caterpillar and Hastings Deering representatives on
hand to answer questions and to discuss the machines details. Some of the
comments made were on its design and looks, as well as its status of being
fitter friendly.”
“Maintenance and service technicians appreciate the MD5150’s
simple component layout and convenient service access. It offers a walk-in
service station that provides quick and easy access to major service points of
engine, air conditioner, compressor and hydraulic valves,” Adam added.
Hastings Deering also previewed the machine to selected
industry customers at an event held at the new Brisbane General Construction
facility. Participants had the opportunity to get in the cab and see what
operating the machine is about and was well received.
“Many expressed pleasure at the attention to detail given to
the build and all (that knew) commented on the improvements seen over the
previous MD5125 (SCH5000) drill. Others appreciated seeing it built on genuine
Cat track undercarriage.”
Equipment life cycle is long thanks to the durable Cat
components and maintenance friendly designs.
The Cat MD5150 track drill can drill holes within 24 inches
of the highwall, 50 per cent closer than with a linear rod changer. The quality
of the line’s components and design makes them a perfect fit for the high
standards of Caterpillar.
To learn first-hand how these machines can put more money in
to your bottom line and to give you a competitive advantage, contact us on 131
228.