Cutting-edge equipment to elevate quarry operations

Epiroc introduced new drilling tools that are optimized for the quarrying and construction industries. According to Epiroc, its new Grey line drill bits were developed for European quarrying and surface construction drilling conditions. As the company describes, the drill bits are ideal for less demanding rock conditions, and they help to increase rock drilling efficiency. The new drill bits are compatible with Epiroc’s T-thread drill string. They can be used on the Epiroc Yellow line rods and on other manufacturers’ rods using the same common thread type. The Epiroc Grey line drill string will be manufactured in four different locations, improving availability while making it more accessible to customers around the world.

---

Dewatering pump made in two configurations

Sykes Group, which became part of the Atlas Copco Group Power & Flow Division near the end of 2023, debuted a dewatering pump for quarries and mines. The XH250 is available in diesel- and electric-drive configurations, and it can be mounted on skids, trailers or pontoons. According to Sykes, the XH250 is engineered to deliver 200 liters per second at 220 meters or 250 liters per second at 200 meters, ensuring reliable and efficient dewatering. The pump’s design incorporates several features to enhance longevity and performance, including multiple priming options, advanced bearing arrangements and exceptional sealing solutions, according to Sykes. Also, the inclusion of wear plates offers the ability to make fine adjustments to the impeller wear plate clearance. This enables customers to restore pump efficiency without the need for extensive overhauls.

---

Tripper position switch debuts

Conveyor Components Co.’s model TPS (tripper position switch) is designed to indicate when the tripper of a shuttle conveyor is located on a multiple-discharge point – and it will “trip” or activate the dumper when signaled, the company says. This unit is designed to operate in adverse field conditions, and it is commonly used in the industry, according to Conveyor Components Co. The model TPS is a heavy-duty-style control with two SP/DT micro switches rated for 20 amps at 120 volts, 240 volts or 480 volts. The switch actuation is bidirectional, and the roller orientation is field adjustable with a simple hex bolt adjustment. The white acetyl roller is bidirectional, measuring 3 in. in diameter by 1 5/8 in. wide, and it can withstand pressure, wear and chemical attack, the company says. The housing is a cast-aluminum enclosure rated for NEMA 4 weatherproof, or NEMA 7/9 explosion proof.