In the mining, infrastructure, and natural resources industries, Epiroc is a leading name in developing and providing innovative and safe equipment, such as drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment, and tools for surface and underground applications.
On February 26, 2025, they turned over Epiroc Simulator machines (Jumbo Drill, LPT Machine, and LHD Machine) to Apex Mining Co., Inc. (AMCI) during the mine company’s 55th Anniversary in Maco, Davao de Oro.
Apex Mining recently acquired simulators to make training of mine machine operators safer and more efficient. Says Sarmiento, “These simulators ensure the safety of our trainees as they master how to operate our equipment.”
In relation to Epiroc’s product launch during the celebration, Philippine Resources Journal interviewed Epiroc to orient us with the features of Boomer DCS simulator.
EPIROC’s Boomer DCS simulator - Product description [1]
The Boomer DCS simulator can be used to simulate the following Boomer DCS rigs: S1 D, L1 D, T1 D, 281 and ML1
Epiroc simulators are built from the engineering plans of the real machine. All programs and controls are real machine components, giving you the exact feeling of using actual Epiroc equipment. To create a realistic field of view, and a more immersive experience, the Epiroc simulator uses the same cab as with the real equipment. Inside the cab, there is a multiple LED screen system, displaying real-time simulation.
The Boomer S1 D simulator is designed with a number of training scenarios where you can increase your machine skills. The simulator has all the original components and controls integrated in an original cab.
Available formats: classroom trainer and full cabin
Interview with EPIROC
PRJ: Please give us a brief description of the Simulator.
EPIROC: All three simulators were built from the engineering plans of the real machine. The cabin controls and simulation software were customized to give the exact feeling of using the actual machine. These simulators aim to enable beginners to quickly master operating skill and routine operating procedures of a specific machine.
With the guidance of a certified operator trainer, all type of learners (Visual Learners, Auditory Learners and Kinesthetic/Tactile Learners) can be trained using these simulators. The subjects and scenarios were designed to be self-explanatory. This makes the step-by-step procedures on these simulators easily understood by anyone.
PRJ: What are the benefits of using the Simulator? Any drawbacks?
EPIROC: The number one benefit of the simulator is providing safe training environment for the trainees. Using live machines for practical training can expose trainees to hazards. It can be costly as well if the trainees commit errors or mistake during practical training. Using the simulators during practical training can prevent these potential problems from happening.
Using a live machine can be stressful for trainers as well, since the trainees are being exposed to different hazards during practical training. In addition, the trainers are responsible to whatever happens to the machine used during practical training. Compared to using the simulators, it is less stressful for trainers and it will be more conducive for the trainee during their practical training.
PRJ: What makes this product a cut above the rest among your competitors?
EPIROC: Aside from real machine-like design advantage, the simulator management system also features the following:
-- Manage performance result of the user
-- Suitable learning paths can be created for a specific user
-- Trainer can monitor individual or group user’s training progress
-- Statistics and training report can be generated
-- Multilingual system (Other language can be request from PC to be added)
PRJ: What is the required technical expertise level or background for its end user?
EPIROC: For the trainers, it is required for them to be trained and certified first before they can conduct practical training using the simulators. They need to be knowledgeable as well on the basics of using a computer.
For the trainees, they need to be able to read and comprehend the step-by-step instructions from the simulator scenarios.
PRJ: Are simulators really necessary in modern mining operations? What can it offer above real-machine, real-world experience?
EPIROC: Yes, since we value the safety of all who uses our products, it is highly recommended to have a simulator when conducting training for operators even in modern mining operations. It can offer as well safe training environment for the users.
PRJ: Is the simulator capable of predicting and preventing potential accidents if certain decisions are done in the actual site?
EPIROC: Yes, it can predict potential accident since it can highlight bad operating habits to the user. These bad operating habits can lead to costly damaged of the real machine and disrupt its production. By highlighting these bad operating habits during the practical training, it can prevent potential accidents that can be cause by the user.
PRJ: Is the simulator dedicated only to a single machine or is it applicable to other mining equipment? Please expound.
EPIROC: No, it can be dedicated to multiple machines with the same product line and control system. For the Boomer S1D for example, it can be used to train operators for single boom face drilling machines with DCS control system.
---
In this part of the interview, AMCI representative answers some of our questions.
PRJ: Who will be the end-users of the simulator? What can they gain by using it?
AMCI: The primary end-users of the UG equipment simulators are the old or new underground equipment operators and trainers. They can gain benefits in terms of enhancing safety by providing risk-free environment for training, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Training on simulators is also cost-effective by eliminating the need for expensive equipment and materials, making it a more affordable option.
PRJ: As a tool for training beginners, what are the advantages of using your simulator?
AMCI: One of the several key advantages in training beginners using simulator is cost savings. Simulators eliminate the need for using actual equipment for training, which can be expensive to operate and maintain. This also reduces wear and tear on real machinery. Another one is replicating various realistic scenarios and conditions, allowing beginners to experience and respond to situations they might encounter underground. Trainees can practice specific tasks repeatedly until they master them, ensuring consistent training outcomes. Lastly, enhanced safety to the trainees by learning and practicing in a risk-free environment, reducing the chance of accidents and injuries during the initial learning phase.
PRJ: Can simulators serve as an effective tool for monitoring work efficiency and quantifying potential output? If so, could you expound on this feature?
AMCI: Yes, underground equipment simulators can indeed serve as effective tool. In terms of performance tracking, simulators can monitor and record various performance metrics of operators, such as cycle times, fuel consumption, and adherence to safety protocols. This data helps in assessing the efficiency of each operator. It will give also real-time feedback to the operators on their performance, allowing them to understand and correct mistakes quickly. This immediate and continuous feedback loop helps in improving overall efficiency. The data collected from simulation sessions can be analyzed to identify trends and areas for improvement.
About the company:
Epiroc has clients in 150 countries, an indication of wide global reach. Their products and services include: drill rigs, rock drilling tools, loaders & trucks (LHDs), excavator attachments, raise boring equipment, rock reinforcement tools, underground mine ventilation systems, service agreements related to equipment maintenance, and solutions in automation, digitalization, and electrification.
Epiroc’s presence in the Philippines provides equipment and services for mining and infrastructure projects.
---
Photo credit: courtesy of Epiroc Philippines, Inc.
Reference:
Product description: https://www.epiroc.com/en-in/products/parts-and-services/training-products/simulators/boomer-s1-simulator
