PRESS RELEASE: Mattias Hjerpe, product manager at Epiroc, said: "This means great opportunities for customers who are already owners of these rigs."

BenchREMOTE is already available for SmartROC D50, SmartROC D55, and SmartROC D60, and SmartROC D65. It is a remote operator station designed to control SmartRoc rigs from Epiroc. Up to 10 rigs can be pre-programmed into each station. The communication between the BenchREMOTE and remote rigs is ensured via closed and secured wireless network. The solution also supports Geofence for additional safety. The BenchREMOTE can be installed in a customer-supplied vehicle, trailer or in a container.

With BenchREMOTE, users can simultaneously remotely control up to three Epiroc Smart surface drill rigs from a distance of up to 100m. This enables operators to be highly productive without even having to enter a dangerous/hazard zone. The result is both a safer and a more effective mining operation.

Hjerpe added: "BenchREMOTE increases productivity, it enhances safety and it provides the operator with better working conditions."

The expansion of BenchREMOTE to additional rigs is an important step for Epiroc. Hjerpe commented: "We know that our product is highly appreciated and it feels good that we could provide this updated version with the opportunities it offers for Epiroc customers."