Client Background

The Kamoa copper mine is located in Lualaba Province, Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of the world's largest high-grade copper deposits, operated as a joint venture between Chinese and local partners, with annual copper production exceeding 300,000 tonnes. The mine uses large-scale mechanized underground mining methods. After blasting, the scale of loose rock on roofs and sidewalls is substantial. Scaling is a critical safety step to prepare the ground for subsequent drilling and mucking operations.

Challenges Faced

Manual methods were dangerous and slow: The previous scaling method used drill jumbos for "sound checking." But drill jumbos are not designed for scaling. Their booms are not well-suited for sidewall work, and the repeated impacts often damaged the boom arms and slides. Operators were also exposed to unsupported ground, with significant risks of rockfalls and injuries.

Large excavations made scaling harder: As the mine goes deeper, stopes and tunnels are getting larger. Manual scaling tools or standard equipment cannot reach high or wide areas effectively, leaving unsafe ground unaddressed.

Scaling was disrupting the production cycle: Slow and inefficient scaling methods created a bottleneck in the mine's development cycle. These delays impacted the overall mining schedule.

Beijun Solution

Shandong Beijun Group provided an intelligent scaling jumbo tailored for Kamoa's large underground excavations, along with local support services. The scaling jumbo is purpose-built for underground scaling, combining hydraulic power, intelligent controls, and remote operation.

Primary Equipment: Beijun Intelligent Scaling Jumbo
   Designed for non-coal underground mines, this jumbo is equipped with a high-power hydraulic impact hammer. The articulated boom can reach high roofs and sidewalls to efficiently remove loose rock. Its precise positioning and high maneuverability make it suitable for complex underground conditions.

Key Technical Features:

High-impact scaling power: The powerful hydraulic hammer quickly removes loose rock from roofs and sidewalls, significantly shortening the scaling cycle.

Remote control for safe operation: Operators can control the jumbo from a safe distance using a remote control system. Remote scaling is recognized as a best practice for keeping personnel out of hazardous zones.

Agile and adaptable: An articulated heavy-duty chassis with 4WD ensures excellent maneuverability in narrow tunnels and large stopes.

Comprehensive safety systems: The jumbo is equipped with an emergency stop, 4-wheel wet brakes, and a FOPS/ROPS certified cabin for operator protection.

Local Service Support: Beijun's overseas business covers more than 20 countries, including the DRC. Core parts can be delivered to the Kamoa project within 72 hours, ensuring minimal downtime and reliable support.

Implementation Results

Safety improved significantly: The scaling jumbo replaced the unsafe practice of using drill jumbos for scaling. Remote operation ensures workers are no longer exposed to unsupported ground, effectively reducing rockfall risks.

Scaling efficiency surged: The specialized jumbo outperforms manual or improvised methods. Cycle times for scaling were shortened dramatically, keeping the development cycle flowing smoothly. The mine achieved a safer, more efficient "man-machine separation" model.

Reduced damage to other equipment: With a dedicated scaling jumbo, the mine stopped using drill jumbos for scaling, eliminating the damage to their booms and slides. This lowered repair costs and downtime.

Reliable and consistent quality: The intelligent scaling jumbo precisely removes all loose rock, ensuring stable roofs and sidewalls for subsequent operations.

Client Feedback

"Beijun's scaling jumbo has transformed our scaling work. No more using drill jumbos or manual tools. Remote operation keeps our people safe, and the efficiency has exceeded our expectations. This equipment is vital for both production continuity and miner safety." — Kamoa Copper Mine Equipment Management Team