Here's an overview:
🔧 Suitable Rock Drilling Machines
Mini Drilling Jumbos
Compact size, single-boom or dual-boom design.
Flexible arms for precise positioning.
Suitable for tunnels with limited cross-section.
Crawler-type Rock Drilling Machines
Low profile for working in narrow or low-height tunnels.
Stable on uneven ground.
Hand-held or Portable Drilling Machines
Used when the tunnel is extremely tight, and mechanized jumbos cannot enter.
Pneumatic or hydraulic hand drills.
⚙️ Key Features for Narrow Tunnel Operation
Compact dimensions – to pass through small cross-sections.
Articulated booms – to cover maximum drilling area without repositioning.
Remote/wireless control – to reduce operator risk in confined space.
Dust suppression system – water flushing or dust collectors to improve air quality.
Explosion-proof motors (if working in coal or gassy tunnels).
🚧 Challenges in Narrow Tunnels
Limited maneuvering space for equipment.
Ventilation issues → accumulation of dust and fumes.
Safety risks → operators must stay clear of machine movement.
Reduced productivity compared to large tunnels, since machine boom coverage is restricted.
✅ Best Practice: For narrow tunnels (e.g., 2–3 m wide), use a single-boom, low-profile hydraulic drilling jumbo or a crawler-mounted mini drill rig. For extremely small spaces, hand-held pneumatic drills are still necessary.
Would you like us to give you a recommended tunnel size range (height × width) for different types of rock drilling machines?
