Customer Context
Operating Environment
Underground development drilling. High-cycle feed and retraction under abrasive, high-load conditions requiring precision and stability.
TFX hydraulic feed cylinders are critical to drilling performance and accuracy.
Core Issue
Recurring premature cylinder failures.
Air encapsulation between the floating piston and piston rod was driving internal failure – resulting in:
- Unplanned downtime
- Increased replacement frequency
- Escalating maintenance cost
- Increased plant personnel exposure
Solution
MASPRO Intervention
Based on field feedback and site collaboration, MASPRO Engineering redesigned:
- Transfer tube positioning
- Internal cylinder geometry
- Air management pathway within the assembly
The redesigned TFX cylinder was trialled and validated in active development fleets.
The focus was stability, not reinforcement.
Results
Increased Reliability and Measurable Performance Gains
Across six development jumbos (12 booms) over 12 months:
- 25% reduction in cylinder usage
- 54% cost saving vs OEM supply
-
66% reduction in cylinder consumption vs Service Exchange unit
- 61% cost saving compared to previous procurement model
The MASPRO Advantage
This outcome was achieved through:
- Site-based engineering collaboration
- Failure-mode analysis, not symptom treatment
- Geometry and flow-path correction
- Lifecycle-focused hydraulic redesign
This is reliability engineered into the hydraulic system, not reactive part replacement.
This case study is for general informational purposes. Performance outcomes may vary depending on operating conditions. Organisations should assess applicability to their specific environment. MASPRO® is a registered trademark of its respective owner.
