Dust free rock drilling (DABB)

Important results from the project

** Denna text är maskinöversatt ** During rock protection work, the operator often hangs from ropes at the same time as they drill into the rock. One problem is that drilling dust blows out of the borehole and hits the operators almost right in the face. The project has developed a manufacturing concept for a light equipment that diverts the drilling mud. The rock drilling machine´s exhaust air drives the dust extractor. Testing of prototypes in the field shows that the product works well and leads to a clear improvement in comfort and working environment with reduced health risks.

Expected long term effects

** Denna text är maskinöversatt ** About 10 operators have tried the dust extraction on the equipment in the field. The feedback is very good. No one wants to be covered in dust in their work and if it becomes known that there is a solution to avoid this, it will be in demand. Especially when inhaling quartz dust is a known health risk. A pre-series is underway. It is expected that a smaller series production will start. Also several other Norwegian mountain protection companies have shown interest. A project planning is underway to develop an extraction system for a larger machine.

Approach and implementation

** Denna text är maskinöversatt ** The project has carried out a classic product realization process where 6 different concepts have been evaluated. Selected manufacturing concepts were 3D printing in TPU plastic for the pre-series and in cast aluminum for series production (3D printed sand moulds). In addition to casting simulations, both simulated and analytical flow calculations were performed to ensure injector performance. Six cast prototypes have been produced. The project has reached the set objective, but the scope of the work effort was underestimated during planning.