Small but mighty! New mixing and charging truck (MCU) for narrow-bore tunnel from the EVOBLAST Group and PICAR

In the second half of 2024, the EVOBLAST Group and PICAR presented a joint product for mining companies - a mixing and charging truck (MCU), capacity 1.2 tons. The truck can transport up to 600 kilograms of emulsion explosive (EE), produced without additional filling of components, which allows very quick charging of 2-3 drifting faces. Due to its small size and maneuverability, MCU is an excellent solution for small companies.

The new product is intended mainly for driving mine workings from 8 square meters and more. The unit was developed for a large mining company as part of the production modernization at one of the deepest mines in the Urals. The PICAR chassis has already proven itself at the site, having received the affectionate nickname "Muravei” (Ant) from the miners. Now the partnership has expanded to the drilling and blasting segment, with expertise provided by the EVOBLAST Group.

MCU made it possible to mechanize the blaster's work as much as possible, relieving him of some of the physical activities associated with transporting materials for charging. All required units are located in the vehicle very compactly: tanks with emulsion explosives components, a special cabinet with compartments for transporting initiation systems, folding structures and safety cages to move around the mine workings and to perform the work. A warm glass cabin allows a team of three blasters to move comfortably. The key feature of the unit is its complete technological sovereignty, as it is made from Russian components. Another advantage is its high maintainability.

"The project development took 6 months. The customer received a small and agile "assistant" that can provide linear meters to the planned excavation volumes due to the high productivity of the charging unit (up to 50 kg/min). The buggy can overcome serious slopes for descent and ascent (up to 35°), and also confidently "keep the ground under the wheel" due to the energy-intensive suspension and 3-pivot axles. Due to the chassis simple design the replacement parts can be easily found in any regional car service," says Ivan Veselov, Director of Underground Mining of the EVOBLAST Group.

The developers did not ignore safety issues either. The truck crew is protected by a power frame certified according to ROPS/FOPS standards, as well as a folding safety structure for loading.
"Muravei" has already started working at the customer's site. The group plans to produce two more chassis. It is also possible to scale the project to other mining sites in Russia.