Epiroc is launching a new tube drilling system, ET51, with the promise of straighter and deeper drilling while vastly improving service life.

It replaces the previous T51 tube drilling system and, unlike its predecessor, ET51 comes with only one tube type. This simplifies procurement and management.

Epiroc says the new system greatly outperforms traditional speed-rod systems and allows for straighter and deeper drilling.

“Our new tube drilling system really provides a significant advantage for the operator,” Epiroc tools and attachment division global product manager Veselin Donchev said.

“Straighter and deeper drilling means improved productivity. This is further enhanced by fact that it comes with only one tube type making management and procurement a lot easier.

“It really is somewhat of a game-changer.”

The ET51 tube drilling system system’s capability of extremely straight drilling is the result of a new tube design, a stiffer drill string thanks to the shoulder drive, a new coupling geometry and greatly improved bending endurance – resulting in up to twice the strength of the T51.

Lighter tube ends, which also have an improved geometry, allow more energy to be transferred into the rock.

The advantage increases with each tube in the drill string, reducing the rate of penetration loss per tube, adding up to considerably deeper holes.

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Besides improving straightness, shoulder drive reduces tube wear. The new optimised coupling geometry, including patented threads, means less mechanical wear.

Epirc says field tests have shown that ET51 provides up to 45 per cent longer service life. This greatly improves personal safety for the operator through fewer shifts.

“Sustainability and safety are important factors for us when developing new products and longer service life means less shifts which increases safety and improves our carbon footprint,” Mr Donchev said.

“It is a win-win for both us and our customers.”