Development of Lightweight Air Powered Drill Tool for Probe Drilling in Anthracite Mines

摘要

This report describes the results and conclusions of the development and evaluation of a unique concept for a lightweight air-powered drill tool for probe drilling in anthracite mines. A concept model of the lightweight air-powered tool was constructed and evaluation testing conducted at the Kocher Coal Co. Porter Tunnel Mine. The unique anchoring method proved to be extremely satisfactory and the overall lightweight air-powered drill tool concept proved feasible. Based on the results of the concept model testing, two prototype production units were designed and manufactured. These prototype units met all design requirements of lightweight, portability, drilling controllability, structural integrity, and miner acceptance. The need for a better bit and drill steel system, however, became evident during testing and recommendations are made for further investigation and development of a bit and drill steel system suitable for this application.