Hexagon picks for drum cutters – another industry first for Epiroc

As an encore to the introduction of its game-changing V Cutter (patent pending), Epiroc now presents HexPicks, a new range of picks with hexagonal bodies for all types of drum cutting equipment. The hexagonal shape may sound like a simple modification but in fact it’s an ingenious industry first that will make daily maintenance easier, faster and less costly. The secret is that unsticking or replacement of the HexPicks can be done quickly and easily with a hexagon wrench. Epiroc reports that HexPicks are also more durable and will last up to 20% longer than all competing products.

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Anyone working with drum cutting equipment will recognize this situation. Picks stick and stop rotating and it’s necessary to spend time every day with a hammer making sure they are all rotating freely. Also, working in rock or concrete, it’s unavoidable that picks wear out, and replacing them onsite is hard, time-consuming work.

More uptime, lower operating costs

According to Epiroc, the unique design of HexPicks (patent pending) is specifically intended to contribute to faster and easier pick maintenance and replacement. Instead of using a hammer and a degree of force, HexPicks can be unstuck or replaced on the jobsite with very little effort using a standard hexagon wrench. In addition, HexPicks come with the Epiroc QuickSnap retaining system, offering savings in time of more than 50% compared with normal circlips or knock-on retainers. The smart retaining clips enable the picks to be changed in a matter of seconds.

It all adds up to more uptime and lower operating costs, and the benefits don’t end there. The HexPicks’ design also protects the drum’s pick box and allows better rotation, which optimizes the pick resharpening process.

High-performance materials make Epiroc picks extra durable

HexPicks last 20% longer than all competing products thanks to the materials used in their manufacture. The heart of the cutting operation is a stress-resistant tungsten carbide insert brazed into the body of the pick. Manufactured in a sintered material made up of tungsten carbide with a cobalt binder, the insert is designed to withstand the extreme stresses caused by continuously impacting the rock. The head and shaft of the pick body are made from “optimized” heat-treated steel and serve as the support for the tungsten carbide insert as well as “full” protection for the pick box.

Ideal for all drum cutting equipment

Only available from Epiroc, HexPicks are suitable for use with transverse drum cutters, V Cutters and longitudinal cutters. From 2023 HexPicks are standard for all deliveries from the Epiroc factory.