This upgraded bolter miner, developed out of the Sandvik MB670, is purpose-built for longwall mining, Sandvik said. The fully automatic cutting cycle results in constant and faster advances, shortening panel development times in stable ground conditions by up to 30% and ensuring smoother mine floor conditions, it explained. 

"Our new Sandvik MB670-1 bolter miner has an innovative sump frame mechanism that incorporates cutting and bolting, allowing coal cutting and ground support installation simultaneously," said Bruno Reumueller, product line manager, underground coal and minerals at Sandvik Mining. 

"While the machine is stabilised for installing the ground support, the sump frame mechanism continues to move forward to cut out the next cycle. This enables our customers to get more out of their mine. Sandvik initiated invention of the bolter miner concept 25 years ago, and we are rapidly approaching 300 bolter miners in operation today. Our patented design is proof that our range of bolter miners helps our customers drive down their total cost of ownership and improve productivity. The new Sandvik MB670-1 is no exception."