Epiroc launches Pit Viper 276 for soft rock mining

Epiroc has launched the Pit Viper 276, a new rotary blasthole drill designed for soft rock surface mining applications 

The latest addition to the Pit Viper range combines increased hole depth with enhanced drilling performance and scalable automation capabilities.

The Pit Viper 276 is designed to drill hole diameters ranging from 9 to 10 5/8 inches (229–270 mm) and can achieve drilling depths of up to 239 ft (73 m) with its five-rod carousel. The machine features increased rotary torque, larger P14 pumps and improved levelling capability of up to 10 degrees.

An expanded dust hood has also been incorporated to improve the dispersal of cuttings during drilling. These features are designed to support productivity, flexibility and drilling performance across a range of soft rock surface mining applications.

"The Pit Viper 276 combines proven performance with the flexibility customers need to meet today's production demands. From increased hole depth capability and improved leveling performance to higher torque, the PV-276 helps customers maximise productivity while maintaining the durability and reliability that have made the Pit Viper series an industry benchmark," remarked Cynthia Rodriguez, global product manager - Large Blasthole.

Scalable automation for surface mining

The Pit Viper 276 comes as standard with Epiroc's Rig Control System (RCS), providing a range of automation capabilities. These extend from onboard automation to teleremote operation and fully autonomous drilling.

Using the established RCS operating platform, the drill allows customers to select the level of automation suited to their operational requirements.

Safety and maintenance features

Safety features are integrated into the Pit Viper 276 design, including a FOPS-certified operator cab and RCS safety interlocks. An optional Live Work Elimination package is available to help reduce operator and technician exposure to hazardous tasks while supporting maintenance efficiency and machine availability.

The optional Automatic Bit Changer and Live Work Elimination solutions are designed to reduce manual intervention during drilling operations and routine maintenance.

Cable feed system supports drill string life

The Pit Viper 276 uses Epiroc's patented cable feed system with automatic cable tensioning. The system is designed to reduce wear on critical components and extend drill string life, helping to lower total cost of ownership over the machine's operating life.

With increased drilling depth, higher rotary torque, improved levelling, automation and safety features, the Pit Viper 276 extends Epiroc's rotary blasthole drill offering for soft rock surface mining.

The launch also highlights Epiroc's focus on applying automation, serviceability and machine performance improvements to specialised mining applications. By combining established Pit Viper platform features with new capabilities, the Pit Viper 276 is designed to support productivity, safety and operational performance in soft rock drilling.