Atlas Copco Boomer E2 C Underground Drill
Presented here is a 1:50th scale model of the Atlas Copco Boomer E2 C underground twin boom drill rig. The manufacturer of the model is unknown and it appears Atlas Copco have commissioned the model directly from a Chinese manufacturer.
At first glance, the model looks reasonably detailed but when you take a closer look, the lack of functionality becomes very noticable. The articulating chassis is basic with no functional steering hydraulics although it does have a good amount of movement for tight turning. The tyres have a crisply moulded tread pattern and look fine, mounted to metal wheel hubs which are freely rotating.
The cab interior has been replicated and is visible through the clear glazed windows. Details like access steps, windscreen wipers and integrated work lights are all present and the added electrical components and rear engine housing, complete with hose reel assembly look fine.
The model is based on a twin boom drill and it is here that the functionality is lacking. The booms do not go any lower than the horizontal position, even though the hydraulics would allow it and while the booms on the full sized machine are telescopically extendable, the model has a single cast boom. The booms can be raised and there is limited movement of the drill mast (Both left to right and rotational) but this is very stiff and it feels like it would easily brake if forced.
The drill masts are single cast pieces with the drill head fixed in place so it is not possible to extend the drill rod in any way. Metal rods are used with shaped plastic tips replicating the drill heads.
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All the rivets used to assemble the booms have large heads which don't look particularly good and it is a pity these have not been touched up with paint. The booms also have a loose feel to them and there is certainly some wobble which is another dissapointment. The model has a third boom located centrally on the chassis which has a charging platform with folding canopy and while this is made of metal, the railings look a little oversized. There are no hydraulics at the base of the platform and it tends to tilt over time as friction is needed for it to hold position. |
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The paint finish is rather thick and chips off very easily, especially where the parts have been joined while some areas look like they have been hand painted. On a positive note, the Atlas Copco logos and markings are tampo printed and look sharp, as do the small warning and safety labels. The stabiliser jacks used to keep the machine stable during drilling have been simulated in a single casting which offers no functionality, either in extending or lowering the pads and this again is dissapointing.
While both Joal and Norscot have produced Atlas Copco models in the past, it is a shame that Atlas Copco did not continue with a recognised model manufacturer as the quality and functionality of the model are lacking from what would have been expected from Norscot or Joal. The model is available direct from Atlas Copco through their parts department, so anyone wanting to add this replica to their collection should google for their nearest Atlas Copco depot.
