FORCIT’s underground charging modules, known as ECMs (Emulsion Charging Modules), have now entered their third generation. The ECM3 modules combine the best Nordic solutions to ensure high-quality underground charging. Their design is based on best practices from Finland, Sweden, and Norway, and incorporates customer feedback from earlier models.
To date, nearly 15 ECM3 units have been delivered to customer sites across Finland, Sweden, and Norway. These modules are used in both tunnel projects and mine development operations. The ECM3 can also be equipped with devices that enable underground production charging, including hose feeding and pulling systems.
The latest ECM3 unit in Finland is currently undergoing commissioning at a customer site. It features a dual-pump charging system mounted on the rear platform of a dual-boom machine. Each boom’s personnel basket is fitted with a hose pulling device for string charging. Both charging lines operate independently, each with its own user-specific charging display. The control system and raw material tanks are shared. The unit’s charging capacity per refill is approximately 2,200 kg, and the matrix tank is built in compliance with ADR regulations.
The control system reports charging data via a cloud service directly into the production report, allowing the customer to monitor charging data with borehole-level precision.
Like all ECM3 units, this one is equipped with ForSmart, FORCIT’s proprietary control system, which supports remote updates. Charging data is reported via a cloud service directly into the production report, enabling charging data monitoring for each borehole. Users can easily adjust charging settings to meet specific requirements. Up to eight different string charging configurations are available. Each user receives a personal username and password, managed by FORCIT’s Site Manager.
In addition to its versatile control system, ECM3 offers precise control of the emulsion sensitization process without additives (no acid), even under varying conditions across charging locations. The desired target density is consistently achieved within the same time frame, regardless of temperature or pumping speed.
For more information about the new ECM3 charging modules, please contact FORCIT’s Underground Team in Finland.