Mining and infrastructure construction supplier Epiroc has introduced the DH350, the first of a new line of drilling rigs for the oil and gas market. In the release, the company says it challenges conventional rig design while offering advantages of Tier-1 class drilling rigs, all in a package that surpasses the mobility of any conventional rig on the market today.

“The DH350 combines the mobility of carrier drive rigs with the power density of conventional skidded systems to produce one of the most agile and capable drilling rigs in the marketplace today,” says Cole Carpenter, product manager, Deephole Oil and Gas Rig at Epiroc Drilling Solutions. “We will continue to drive the paradigm shift in conventional rig design — the DH350, a step change in drilling efficiency.”

Epiroc says the new single-piece substructure is a slingshot-style unit with integrated hydraulics to minimize the number of connections required for full rig up. The API-certified substructure offers a 27½-inch split master bushing with a maximum table opening of 44 inches, easily accommodating large-diameter tools and complex bottom hole assemblies.

The company designed the 1,200-horsepower diesel-hydraulic power unit to optimize distribution of hydraulic power to all drilling functions, while cutting fuel consumption to easily get through the day. The stand-alone HPU minimizes cycle time between wells by eliminating the need for high-voltage power from ancillary prime movers, and remains an integral component atop the DH350 substructure when walking the rig between wellheads.

The crownless telescopic mast featuring 54-inch Nylatron sheaves provides 350,000 pounds of pullback, 50,000 pounds of pulldown force through the robust tip-out hydraulic top drive. The twin spur gear powerhead offers variable speed electric over hydraulic control with a maximum 30,000 foot-pounds of rotary torque, and the ability to handle single joints of Range III drill collars up to 8-inches in diameter.

Epiroc says the optimized load configuration and integrated hydraulics allow crane-free rig up in under 12 hours, with as few as six rig loads between drilling locations, allowing operators to minimize cycle time and improve long-term well economics. The minimized load configuration is accomplished through a combination of streamlined skid-mounted components and single-piece assemblies transported via purpose built trailer or integrated subassembly axle groups. DH350 offers multiple premium configurations including hands-free BOP handling, and is currently available for order.

Epiroc serves customers in the mining, infrastructure and natural resources industries in more than 150 countries. It develops and produces drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment, and also offers services and consumables. For more information, visit www.epiroc.us.