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Automation continues to advance in surface mining in Chile. Last month, Epiroc delivered the 47th autonomous Pit Viper blasthole drill in the country, a new milestone that reflects the consolidation of this technology in large-scale mining operations.
The company stated: “More than a figure, this advancement represents accumulated experience in the field, operational knowledge and confidence in autonomous solutions capable of integrating with current industry challenges. Pit Viper drills can operate autonomously as part of Epiroc’s automation ecosystem, contributing to safer and more efficient operations, while enabling progress towards increasingly digitised management of drilling processes.”
With 47 autonomous units, Chile continues to position itself as one of the most relevant markets for the development and adoption of Epiroc’s mining automation technologies globally.
The fleet mainly consists of PV-351 and PV-271 models at large copper operations including Anglo American’s Los Bronces, BHP’s Spence and Escondida, and AMSA’s Minera Los Pelambres and Centinela.
These drills are now using Epiroc’s latest Rig Control System version for Pit Viper drills, RCS5.12, released in July, which introduced new capabilities that it says enhance remote operations, automation, safety, and operational efficiency.
The update included Digital Teleremote Cameras, Digital Inspection Reporting, Auto Tower Raise, enhanced ADPE obstacle detection, Propel Stop with Proximity Interlock, AutoDrill 2 (AD2) improvements, and Drill Pipe Support Centraliser integration for the Pit Viper 231. It stated: “Together, these enhancements improve machine availability, simplify operator workflows, and support more consistent drilling performance.”
Digital Teleremote Cameras improve remote visibility while optimising network performance. Digital Inspection Reporting replaces paper-based inspections with a digital workflow that improves traceability. Auto Tower Raise automates transitions between transport and drilling positions, simplifying setup and reducing manual interaction. Enhanced ADPE obstacle detection and Propel Stop with Proximity Interlock further improve machine awareness and operational safety.
The update also expanded machine integration by supporting the PV-231 Drill Pipe Support Centraliser and strengthens connectivity through improved integration with LinkOA, Epiroc’s open, OEM-agnostic automation platform. The OEM added: “With RCS 5.12, Epiroc continues to expand the capabilities of the Pit Viper platform, delivering practical innovations that help customers improve safety, productivity, and operational performance.”
“RCS 5.12 is focused on making everyday operations safer, simpler, and more productive. By improving remote visibility, expanding automation capabilities, and streamlining routine workflows, we’re giving Pit Viper operators the tools they need to work more efficiently and with greater confidence,” said Carla Chaname, Epiroc Product Manager – Automation.
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