New E-series to Challenge High Speed Tunnelling RecordsAtlas Copco has given the tunnelling industry a glimpse of the future by lifting a corner of the veil covering its next drill rig launch - the Rocket Boomer E-series. Following several years of development and testing, this new series of drill rigs aims to challenge all high speed records.Atlas Copco's forthcoming E-series - to be launched during 2006 - has been developed with a clear mission in mind: to speed up the drilling cycle while minimizing both over- and underbreak.To achieve the goal, the E-series will be equipped with two key components. Firstly, it will carry the world's fastest hydraulic rock drill - the award-winning COP 3038 - which is designed to drill with exceptional speed without increasing wear on the drill steel. Secondly, it will have the new BUT 45 booms which provide excellent stability and faster and more accurate positioning (see video). Atlas Copco's upgraded Rig Control System, RCS, is also expected to find its way to the E-series for accurate positioning and control.In the quest for speed and performance, operator comfort will not be overlooked. The E-series cabin will have an adjustable seat with armrest controls and an ergonomically-designed control panel with a large colour display. The E-series looks set to make a substantial contribution to low-cost tunnelling and improved operational economy in the years to come.The E-series will be introduced at Intermat 2006, which will be held from 24th to 29th April, 2006 at the Paris Nord Villepinte congress centre. Visit www.atlascopco.com 52/05-01/06.