Press Release: Epiroc is pleased to announce the full availability of its Common Automation Panel (CAP) for both RCS-based surface drill rig models – Pit Viper and SmartROC DTH MKII.
With CAP, operators can control mixed fleets from a single, ergonomic station, transforming the remote-control center into a more efficient, cost-effective, and safer environment. The Common Automation Panel is specifically designed to revolutionize control rooms for modern mining operations.
"CAP exemplifies our vision of an interoperable control room, allowing Pit Viper and SmartROC drills to be controlled by a single platform. Our customers need solutions that grow with them and adapt to their needs—CAP delivers by seamlessly connecting larger, mixed fleets with ease" - Automation Manager, Epiroc Surface division.
,CAP offers a complete transformation in remote control center ergonomics and functionality. With its 12” touchscreen and adaptable joystick configuration, operators can easily transition between machine types, making it an ideal solution for mixed fleet operations and cross-training.
Mahmood Hassan, Product Engineer – Automation says “CAP simplifies operations for our customers with its intuitive interface and gamified controls, minimizing training time and helping operators adapt quickly to enhance efficiency and productivity. Through engaging interactive demonstrations, CAP has generated excitement and enthusiasm from customers.”
Key benefits of CAP include:
- Enhanced control room layout, enabling greater operator efficiency and reduced variability.
- Lower costs for maintenance, training, and spare parts through a single panel for mixed fleets.
- A new safety system, which allows more machines to connect to a single control room, improving situational awareness and optimizing fleet operations.
The Common Automation Panel helps lower the total cost of ownership and supports consistent, predictable operation, which contributes to decarbonization efforts and improved operator health and wellbeing.
With rising demands for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, as well as the need for advanced digital solutions in mining, CAP directly addresses these requirements. This innovation underscores Epiroc’s commitment to supporting safe, productive, and sustainable mining.
"CAP enables operators to control drills from anywhere in the world, offering flexibility, safety, and improved working conditions while allowing mine and quarry sites to gradually adopt automation as their infrastructure and procedures evolve", added Chris Blignaut.
The Common Automation Panel is now available for Pit Viper and SmartROC drill rigs.
Epiroc is a global productivity partner for mining and construction customers, and accelerates the transformation toward a sustainable society. With ground-breaking technology, Epiroc develops and provides innovative and safe equipment, such as drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and tools for surface and underground applications. The company also offers world-class service and other aftermarket support as well as solutions for automation, digitalization and electrification. Epiroc is based in Stockholm, Sweden, had revenues of more than SEK 60 billion in 2023, and has around 18 200 passionate employees supporting and collaborating with customers in around 150 countries. Learn more at www.epirocgroup.com.
Epiroc’s Surface division develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of rock drilling equipment and solutions for use in surface mining, construction, quarries, as well as water well applications worldwide. It also provides customers with exploration equipment, tooling and advanced orebody data analysis. The division has production in Sweden, the United States, Canada, China, India, Australia and South Africa. Please see www.epiroc.com for product offerings.
More info here.