Eaton´s Hydraulic Components Contribute To The Rescue Of The Chilean Miners

The T130XD drill rig widened the shaft that was drilled as an evacuation route for the miners. A Schramm T685 drill rig, also equipped with Eaton products, drilled the initial bore hole that located the miners, who had been trapped since August 5, when the main mine shaft collapsed.

Eaton’s products were performing hoist lift and lowering functions on the T130XD drill. The evacuation shaft was first widened by approximately 12 inches and then an additional 14 inches as it tunneled its way some 2,300 feet (700 meters) below ground. The two Eaton-equipped drill rigs were being used by area Chilean contractors for mining, energy, geothermal and water drilling when they were called to duty to help save lives in the mine disaster – with perfect results in the end: The drilling progress was much faster than initially expected, and the rescue took place after 69 days on October 13th.

Schramm had equipment and service personnel on site at the northern Chilean copper and gold mine to help in any way possible. Based in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Schramm has been a loyal Eaton customer for more than 15 years.