Komatsu has unveiled its first-ever electric underground drilling and bolting rigs, marking a significant step forward for the Japanese construction giant’s hard rock mining portfolio.
The new electric versions of Komatsu’s ZJ21 jumbo drill and ZB21 bolter are part of the second generation of the company’s Z2 line of small-class development drill and bolting equipment. These rigs feature an innovative resin-pumping system, optimized cabin ergonomics for operators, and advanced telematics. They are built on a common platform with a modular battery driveline designed to withstand the demanding duty cycles and challenges of hard rock mining.
Johan Kempe, product director for underground drilling at Komatsu, highlighted the importance of these electric rigs in supporting the shift toward electrification in underground mining operations. He stated, “By integrating into existing infrastructure, we can help enhance productivity while helping to reduce operating costs.”
The Komatsu ZB21 bolter features a fully enclosed ROPS/FOPS-certified operator cabin with updated controls and integrated screen handling. It also introduces an optional pumpable resin system using J-LOK P developed by Jennmar, which allows for the use of more economical bolts, reducing overall project costs.
The updated ZJ21 jumbo drill shares modular components with the ZB21 and features a similar operator cabin, innovative drilling feeds, advanced pilot hydraulics, and new Montabert drifters.
Both rigs are equipped with an 83 kWh li-ion battery pack, presumably developed in collaboration with American Battery Solutions (ABS), which Komatsu acquired last year. This acquisition was part of Komatsu’s efforts to achieve its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, including a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions from product use by 2030 and company-wide carbon neutrality by 2050.
