The Boomer M20 has a heavy-duty hose-less boom to minimise unplanned stops for hose repairs.

Hydraulic hoses typically get battered about during underground work, with falling rocks and debris and continuous wear against tunnel floors and walls leading to constant hose repairs.

Going hose-less keeps the rig running for longer.

Epiroc global product manager face drilling equipment Niklas Berggren said the Boomer M20 was developed in close collaboration with key customers and was the result of extensive research and real-world testing.

"This is the perfect choice for mining houses and contractors that want to out-drill the competition through innovation," he said. 

"With digital drill plan handling, drill rounds will be longer, more precise and give far less overbreak."

Berggren said the Boomer M20 cuts costs by 25% and increased productivity by 40%.

The rig comes with on-board automation features, tele-remote capabilities and digital drill plans, with the operator able to adjust and download drill plans at the mine face instead of at surface.

The tele-remote capabilities keep operators a safe distance away from the tunnel face and keep production going over shift changes.

In the cab, operators can use the multi-functional joysticks to always keep their eyes on the task, with the cabin stacked with noise and vibration dampening materials to keep noise level as low as 65 decibels.

Berggren said a safe bolting platform also allowed operators to avoid setting up the rig on unstable ground.

"With the on-board charger, the operator does not need to plan for charging, as it automatically takes place while connected to the grid for drilling," he said.

Epiroc president and CEO Helena Hedblom said the company was in it for the thrill of solving the real problem.

"For the adventure and energy found in new perspectives," she said.

"The Boomer M20 is another great example of how we make a difference through innovation."