1. A fitting for a pumpable resin system for installing a rock bolt, the fitting comprising:

a body having a first end and a second end positioned opposite the first end, the body defining a resin port and a catalyst port, the first end of the body configured to engage an arm support of a mining bolting machine; and

a rock bolt engaging member including a body having a tapered surface configured to contact and form a seal with the rock bolt, the rock bolt engaging member being fixed to the body.

2. The fitting of claim 1, wherein the tapered surface defines an interior space, the resin port and the catalyst port of the body being in fluid communication with the interior space.

3. The fitting of claim 1, wherein the rock bolt engaging member comprises an elastomeric material.

4. The fitting of claim 1, wherein the rock bolt engaging member is secured to the body by a threaded arrangement.

5. A rock bolting system comprising:

an accessory, the accessory comprising:

a body having a first end and a second end positioned opposite the first end, the body defining a resin port and a catalyst port, the first end of the body configured to engage an arm support of a mining bolting machine; and

a rock bolt engaging member including a body having a tapered surface, the rock bolt engaging member being secured to the body; and

a rock bolt defining a central opening, the tapered surface of the body of the rock bolt engaging member being configured to contact and form a seal with the rock bolt.

6. The rock bolting system according to claim 5, wherein said tapered surface defines an interior space, said resin port and said catalyst port of said body being in fluid communication with said interior space.

7. The rock bolting system according to claim 6, wherein said central opening of said rock bolt is configured to be in fluid communication with said interior space of said conical surface when said rock bolt is engaged with said conical surface.

8. The rock bolting system according to claim 5, wherein said rock bolt comprises a drill bit.

9. A pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt, comprising:

a resin material bag;

a catalyst package;

a resin pump structure configured to receive the resin cartridge;

a catalyst pump structure configured to receive the catalyst pack;

a transfer line in fluid communication with at least one of the resin pump structure and the catalyst pump structure; and

an accessory, the accessory comprising:

a body having a first end and a second end positioned opposite the first end, the first end of the body configured to engage a boom of a mining bolter, the body in fluid communication with the delivery line; and

a rock bolt engaging member comprising a body having a tapered surface configured to contact and form a seal with the rock bolt, the engaging member being fixed to the body.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the tapered surface defines an interior space, the delivery line being in fluid communication with the interior space.

11. The system of claim 9, further comprising a rock bolt defining a central opening, the tapered surface of the body of the rock bolt engaging member being configured to contact and form a seal with the rock bolt.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the central opening of the rock bolt is configured to be in fluid communication with the interior space of the tapered surface when the rock bolt is engaged with the tapered surface.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the rock bolt comprises a drill bit.

Background

Mine roofs are often supported by tensioning the roof using steel bolts inserted into boreholes drilled in the roof, which strengthens the unsupported rock strata above the roof. The mine roof bolt may be mechanically anchored to the rock formation by engagement of an expansion assembly on the distal end of the mine roof bolt with the rock formation. Alternatively, the mine roof bolt may be cemented to the rock formation using a resin cement material inserted into the borehole. By using both an expansion assembly and a resin bonding material, a combination of mechanical anchoring and resin bonding may also be employed.

When using a resin bonding material, the bonding material penetrates the surrounding rock formation to adhesively bond to the rock formation and securely hold the roof bolt in the borehole. Typically, the resin is inserted into the bore hole of the mine roof in the form of a two-component plastic pack having one component containing the curable resin composition and another component containing the curing agent (catalyst). The bi-component resin charge is inserted into the blind end of the bore hole and the mine roof bolt is inserted into the bore hole so that the end of the mine roof bolt ruptures the bi-component resin charge. As the mine roof bolt is rotated about its longitudinal axis, the compartments within the resin cartridge rupture and the components are mixed. The resin mixture fills the annular region between the bore hole wall and the shaft of the mine roof bolt. The mixed resin cures and bonds the roof bolt to the surrounding rock. The mine roof bolt is typically rotated by a drive head.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, a pumpable resin system for installing a mine roof bolt includes a resin accumulator configured to receive resin, a catalyst accumulator configured to receive catalyst, a resin pump structure in fluid communication with the resin accumulator, a catalyst pump structure in fluid communication with the catalyst accumulator, a transfer line in fluid communication with at least one of the resin pump structure and the catalyst pump structure, and a bolt arm configured to drill a borehole and install a mine roof bolt. The transfer lines are configured to transfer resin and catalyst from the resin and catalyst reservoirs to the borehole via the anchor arm.

The transfer line may be fixed to the anchor rod arm and movable relative to the anchor rod arm. The transfer line may include a resin line in fluid communication with the resin pump structure and a catalyst line in fluid communication with the catalyst pump structure. The resin line and the catalyst line may be received by a static mixer, wherein the conveying further comprises a grout tube in fluid communication with the static mixer and configured to convey the resin/catalyst mixture into the borehole. The system may also include an inhibitor reservoir, an inhibitor pump structure, and an inhibitor line in fluid communication with the inhibitor pump structure, the inhibitor line configured to convey the inhibitor in the inhibitor reservoir to the borehole to define a fast setting section and a slow setting section within the borehole. The resin pump structure may include a resin cylinder pump and the catalyst pump structure may include a catalyst cylinder pump, wherein the resin cylinder pump and the catalyst cylinder pump are driven together and controlled by a hydraulic piston and a hydraulic pump.

The resin pump structure may include a resin supply pump in fluid communication with the resin cylinder pump, and the catalyst pump structure may include a catalyst supply pump in fluid communication with the catalyst cylinder pump. The resin and catalyst reservoirs may each include an auger (auger) configured to receive and mix the resin or catalyst containing bales. The resin accumulator may be a resin supply cylinder configured to receive a resin bale and the catalyst accumulator may be a catalyst supply cylinder configured to receive a catalyst bale, wherein the resin supply cylinder and the catalyst supply cylinder each include a cover member. The cover of the resin supply cylinder may define a gap between the cover of the resin supply cylinder and the resin supply cylinder, and the cover of the catalyst supply cylinder may define a gap between the cover of the catalyst supply cylinder and the catalyst supply cylinder, wherein the gaps are configured to allow air to escape from the respective resin supply cylinder and catalyst supply cylinder during compression of the resin and catalyst bales within the respective resin and catalyst supply cylinders.

In another aspect, a method of installing a mine roof bolt includes inserting a delivery line into a borehole using a bolt arm; injecting grout (grout) into the borehole using the delivery line; retrieving the delivery line from within the borehole using an anchor rod arm; and installing the mine roof bolt in the borehole using the bolt arm by inserting the mine roof bolt into the borehole and rotating the mine roof bolt.

The grout may include resin and catalyst, the method further comprising supplying resin from the resin reservoir via the resin pump structure and supplying catalyst from the catalyst reservoir via the catalyst pump structure. The method may include activating a hydraulic piston to supply the resin and catalyst to the transfer line. The method may further include supplying an inhibitor from an inhibitor reservoir to the borehole, wherein the inhibitor is configured to react more slowly with the resin than with the catalyst and the resin to define a fast setting section and a slow setting section within the borehole. The suppressant may be supplied from the suppressant reservoir via a suppressant pump structure and a suppressant line in fluid communication with the suppressant pump structure. The transfer line may be fixed to the anchor rod arm and movable relative to the anchor rod arm.

In another aspect, a method of installing a mine roof bolt includes: inserting a delivery line into the borehole; injecting resin and catalyst into the borehole using the transfer line along at least a portion of the borehole length; removing the transfer line from within the borehole; the mine roof bolt is inserted into the borehole and the resin and catalyst are then mixed using the mine roof bolt.

The anchor rod arm may be used to insert and remove the delivery line from the borehole. The roof bolt may be inserted into the borehole using the bolt arm and the resin and catalyst mixed. The method may include supplying resin from a resin reservoir via a resin pump structure, and supplying catalyst from a catalyst reservoir via a catalyst pump structure. The method may further include actuating a hydraulic piston to supply the resin and catalyst to the transfer line. The method may further include supplying an inhibitor from an inhibitor reservoir to the borehole, wherein the inhibitor is configured to delay a reaction between the resin and the catalyst for a portion of the length of the borehole.

In one aspect, a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt, comprising: a resin package comprising a first material; a catalyst pack comprising a second material, the first material of the resin pack being different from the second material of the catalyst pack; a resin pump structure configured to receive a resin cartridge; a catalyst pump structure configured to receive a catalyst cartridge; and a transfer line in fluid communication with at least one of the resin pump structure and the catalyst pump structure.

The first material may be nylon and the second material may be polyethylene. The transfer line may include a first tube and a second tube received within the first tube, the second tube in fluid communication with the resin pump structure, a space between the first tube and the second tube in fluid communication with the catalyst pump structure. The transfer line may include a connection fitting having a first port in fluid communication with the first tube and a second port in fluid communication with the second tube. A second tube may extend through the connection fitting and may be secured to the second port. The first port of the connection fitting may be connected to the catalyst pump structure while the second port of the connection fitting is connected to the resin pump structure.

The lubricant may be disposed on one or more of the interior of the first tube, the exterior of the second tube, and the interior of the second tube.

In another aspect, a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt, comprising: a resin pump structure configured to receive a resin cartridge; a catalyst pump structure configured to receive a catalyst cartridge; and a fill tube assembly including a connection fitting having a first port and a second port, the first tube in fluid communication with the first port and the second tube in fluid communication with the second port, the second tube received within the first tube. The second port of the connection fitting is connected to the resin pump structure, and the first port of the connection fitting is connected to the catalyst pump structure.

In another aspect, an injection tube assembly for a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt includes: a connection fitting having a first port and a second port; a first tube in fluid communication with the first port; and a second tube in fluid communication with the second port. A second tube is received within the first tube, wherein the second port of the connection fitting is configured to be connected to a resin pump structure and the first port of the connection fitting is configured to be connected to a catalyst pump structure.

In another aspect, a cartridge assembly for a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt comprises: a resin pack including a first material and containing a resin; and a catalyst pack including a second material and containing a catalyst, wherein the first material of the resin pack is different from the second material of the catalyst pack.

The first material may be nylon and the second material may be polyethylene. The body of the resin package had a thickness of 6 mils. The resin cartridge may be configured to be received by the resin pump structure and the catalyst cartridge configured to be received by the catalyst pump structure.

In another aspect, a fitting for a pumpable resin system for installing a rock bolt, comprises: a body defining a central opening configured to receive a rock bolt, the body defining a grout opening in fluid communication with the central opening; and a grout body defining a space between the main body and the grout body, the main body being rotatable relative to the grout body. The grout body defines a resin port and a catalyst port in fluid communication with the space and the grout opening of the body.

The body may include a drive head configured to engage with a drive tool. One of the main body and the grout body may further define a water port. The grout body may be annular and receive the main body. One of the grout body and the main body may include at least one seal configured to provide a sealing interface between the main body and the grout body. The body may include a threaded portion adjacent the central opening. The body may comprise at least one wiper extending radially outwardly from the body into a space between the body and the grout body.

In another aspect, a rock bolting system includes a fitting having: a body defining a central opening configured to receive a rock bolt; and a grout body defining a space between the main body and the grout body, the main body defining a grout opening in fluid communication with the central opening. The body is rotatable relative to the grout body, the grout body defining a resin port and a catalyst port. The resin port and the catalyst port are in fluid communication with the space and the grout opening of the body. The system also includes a self-drilling rock bolt defining a central opening configured to be in fluid communication with the central opening of the fitting when the rock bolt is secured to the fitting, the self-drilling rock bolt having a drill bit.

In another aspect, a fitting for a pumpable resin system for installing a rock bolt includes a body having a first end and a second end positioned opposite the first end, the body defining a resin port and a catalyst port, the first end of the body configured to engage a boom (boom arm) of a mining bolting machine. The fitting also includes a rock bolt engaging member including an elastomeric body having a tapered surface configured to engage and form a seal with the rock bolt, the rock bolt engaging member being secured to the body.

The tapered surface may define an interior space with which the resin port and the catalyst port of the body are in fluid communication.

In another aspect, a rock bolting system includes a fitting including a body having a first end and a second end positioned opposite the first end, the body defining a resin port and a catalyst port, the first end of the body configured to engage an arm support of a mining bolting machine. The fitting also includes a rock bolt engaging member having a body with a tapered surface. The rock bolt engaging member is secured to the main body. The system also includes a self drilling rock bolt defining a central opening configured to be in fluid communication with an interior space defined by the tapered surface of the rock bolt engaging member. Self drilling rock bolts have a drill bit.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to one aspect of the invention, illustrating filling of a borehole (rsi).

Fig. 2 is an elevation view of the system and method of fig. 1, showing a mine roof bolt being inserted into a borehole.

Fig. 3 is an elevation view of the system and method of fig. 1, showing the mine roof bolt installed.

Fig. 4 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to a second aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to a third aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, illustrating initial filling of a borehole.

FIG. 7 is an elevation view of the system and method of FIG. 6, showing the bore filled with resin and catalyst.

Fig. 8 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to a fifth aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to a sixth aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to a seventh aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a double auger structure for a hopper according to one aspect of the invention.

Fig. 12A-12D are elevation views illustrating a method of installing a mine roof bolt in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 13 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to another aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 14A-14D are elevation views illustrating a method of installing a mine roof bolt in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a pumping arrangement according to one aspect of the present invention, illustrating an initial position of the pumping arrangement.

FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of a pumping structure showing the pumping locations of the pumping structure, according to one aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 17 is a front view of a tube assembly according to an aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 shown in fig. 17.

Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a tube assembly according to another aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a tube assembly according to another aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 21 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to another aspect of the present invention, illustrating filling of a borehole.

Fig. 22 is a front view of an injection fitting according to an aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of fig. 22.

Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of fig. 22.

Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of fig. 22, showing an injection fitting used in conjunction with a self-drilling mine bolt.

Fig. 26A is an exploded perspective view of a resin injection system according to one aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 26B is a perspective view of the resin injection system of fig. 26A.

Fig. 26C is a cross-sectional view of the resin injection system of fig. 26A.

Fig. 27 is an elevation view of a pumping system and method for installing a mine roof bolt according to another aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 28 is a perspective view of a loading cylinder set showing the loading cylinders disposed in a dispensing position in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a cylinder pack according to one aspect of the present invention showing the loading cylinders disposed in a loading position.

FIG. 30 is a side view of the loading cylinder set of FIG. 28 showing the loading cylinder disposed in the loading position.

FIG. 31 is a side view of the loading cylinder set of FIG. 28 showing the loading cylinder disposed in the dispensing position.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an injection cylinder set according to an aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 33 is a front view of the injection cylinder set of fig. 32.

Fig. 34 is a bottom perspective view of the injection cylinder set of fig. 32.

Fig. 35 is a side view of the system of fig. 27, showing the system mounted to a bolter.

Fig. 36 is a side perspective view of the system of fig. 27, showing the system mounted to a carriage.

Fig. 37 is a front perspective view of the system of fig. 27, showing the system mounted to a carriage.

Fig. 38 is a rear perspective view of the system of fig. 27, showing the system mounted to the carriage.

Detailed Description

Aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "above," "below," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," and derivatives thereof shall refer to the invention as oriented in the drawing figures. It is to be understood, however, that the invention may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary aspects of the invention.

Referring to fig. 1-3, one aspect of a pumpable two-component resin system 10 includes a delivery line formed by a resin line 12 and a catalyst line 14 configured to deliver a grout, such as a resin 28 and a catalyst 30, to a borehole. Resin line 12 and catalyst line 14 each have an inlet 16, 20 and an outlet 18, 22. The inlet 16 of the resin line 12 is connected to and in fluid communication with a resin pump 24. The inlet 20 of the catalyst line 14 is connected to and in fluid communication with a catalyst pump 26. The resin pump 24 and the catalyst pump 26 are connected to respective reservoirs (not shown) containing resin 28 and catalyst 30, respectively. The resin line 12 and the catalyst line 14 may be secured to each other by means of a strap 32 to facilitate insertion of the lines 12 and 14 into the bore 34. The resin pump 24 and the catalyst pump 26 may be cut-valve pumps (chop check pumps), but other types of pumps suitable for pumping high viscosity materials may be used. The flow rate of each pump 24 and 26 is calibrated to provide a suitable ratio between the resin 28 and the catalyst 30, which in the case of a water-based catalyst is preferably 2:1, or 66% resin and 33% catalyst. The ratio may be in the range of about 4:1 to 3: 2. In the case of oil-based catalysts, 9:1+/-5 is used

% of the ratio. The flow rate of each pump 24 and 26 can be calibrated by adjusting the air inlet pressure and the diameter of the outlet 18 of the resin line 12 and the outlet 22 of the catalyst line 14. The resin 28 is a filled resin having 10% to 25% inert filler (e.g., limestone). The resin may have a viscosity of about 100,000 centipoise to 400,000 centipoise. Conventional polyurethane resins typically have a viscosity of less than 10,000 centipoise. The use of high viscosity resins generally makes pumping more difficult, but significant cost savings can be achieved by using less expensive fillers.

Referring to FIG. 1, to begin filling the borehole 34, the resin line 12 and catalyst line 14 are inserted into the borehole 34, while the pumps 24 and 26 are activated to fill the borehole 34 with resin 28 and catalyst 30. As the resin 28 and catalyst 30 are pumped into the bore hole 34, displaced material of the lines 12 and 14 is forced out of the bore hole 34, thereby ensuring a completely filled bore hole 34. Alternatively, a packer or plug (not shown) slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the borehole 34 may be installed just ahead of the ends of the pipelines 12 and 14.

Referring to fig. 2 and 3, the resin 28 and catalyst 30 contact and react with each other to create a very fine barrier that will prevent further reaction between the resin 28 and catalyst 30. The mine roof bolt 36 is then inserted into the bore hole 34 and rotated to mix the resin 28 and catalyst 30. After the mine roof bolt 36 is fully inserted, as shown in FIG. 3, the mixed resin 28 and catalyst 30 hardens and cures to securely fix the bolt 36 within the borehole 34.

Referring to fig. 4, the pumpable two-component resin system 10 may further comprise a connector 38, such as a Y-joint (Wye) or T-connector, for receiving the resin line 12 and the catalyst line 14 from the resin pump 24 and the catalyst pump 26, respectively, connector 38. The use of connector 38 allows for the combination of resin line 12 and catalyst line 14 into a single grout tube 39, the grout tube 39 being connected to resin pump 24 and catalyst pump 26 by connector 38. A single grout tube 39 serves as a transfer line and is configured to introduce the resin 28 and catalyst 30 into the borehole 34. The system 10 using the connector 38 will operate in the same manner as described above in connection with fig. 1-3.

Referring to fig. 5, a third aspect of a pumpable two-component resin system 40 includes a resin line 42 and a catalyst line 44. Resin line 42 and catalyst line 44 each have an inlet 46, 52 and an outlet 48, 54. In a manner similar to that shown in fig. 1 and discussed above, inlet 46 of resin line 42 and inlet 52 of catalyst line 44 are connected to and in fluid communication with a resin pump 56 and a catalyst pump 58, respectively. However, the outlet 48 of the resin line 42 and the outlet 54 of the catalyst line 44 are connected to a connector 60 such as a Y-joint or a T-joint, and the connector 60 is fixed to a static mixer 62. Static mixer 62 is configured to mix resin 28 and catalyst 30 before resin 28 and catalyst 30 are pumped into bore hole 64. A single grout tube 66 serves as a delivery line, and the grout tube 66 is secured to the static mixer 62 and is configured to introduce the resin 28 and catalyst 30 as a mixture into the borehole 64.

Referring to fig. 6 and 7, a fourth aspect of the pumpable two-component resin system 70 includes a transfer line formed by a resin line 72, a standard catalyst line 74, and an inhibited catalyst (inhibited catalyst) line 76. The system 70 shown in fig. 6 and 7 operates in a similar manner to the system 10 shown in fig. 1 and discussed above, but the system 70 includes a suppression catalyst line 76 to provide a fast setting section 78 (e.g., located at the blind end of the borehole 34) and a slow setting section 79 (which is spaced further from the blind end of the borehole 34) within the borehole 34. The reaction of the suppressor or inhibitor 77 with the resin 28 from the resin line 72 is slower than the reaction of the standard catalyst 30 from the standard catalyst line 74 with the resin 28 from the resin line 72. These sections allow the mine roof bolt to be anchored in the fast setting section and then tensioned while the slow setting section is still setting.

Referring again to fig. 6 and 7, in use, lines 72, 74 and 76 may all be inserted into borehole 34. The resin line 72 and the standard catalyst line 74 may then be activated or placed in an "ON" state as shown in fig. 6, thereby delivering the resin 28 and the standard catalyst 30 to the borehole 34, wherein the inhibited catalyst line 74 is placed in an "OFF" state. The resin 28 and the standard catalyst 30 are provided along a predetermined length of the bore hole 34 to define a rapid solidification section 78. At this point, the standard catalyst line 74 is deactivated or placed in an "off" state and the suppressor catalyst line 76 is placed in an "on" state such that resin 28 and suppressor catalyst 30 are provided along a predetermined length of the borehole 34 to define a slow-setting section 79. Due to the difference between the catalyst 30 provided by the standard catalyst line 74 and the catalyst 30 provided by the inhibited catalyst line 76, the resin 28 and the fast setting section 78 of the catalyst 30 will harden and set faster than the slow setting section 79, which allows the mine roof bolt to be installed and point anchored (point anchored) at the blind end of the borehole 34 and then tensioned while the slow setting section 79 is still curing.

Referring to fig. 8, a fifth aspect of a pumpable two-component resin system 80 includes a resin line 82, a standard catalyst line 84, and a catalyst inhibitor line 86. The system 80 of fig. 8 is similar to the systems shown in fig. 6 and 7 and described above, but the catalyst inhibitor line 86 is supplied directly to the standard catalyst line 84. The catalyst inhibitor line 86 is operated or pumped only at sections where a relatively slow set time is desired. Connecting the catalyst inhibitor line 86 to the standard catalyst line 84 obviates the need to locate a third line within the borehole 34. The system 80 may also be used by pre-mixing the resin and catalyst. In addition to using two or more catalysts, system 80 can also use two or more resin compositions. Specifically, the system 80 may use a variety of resins and catalysts to optimize their performance and cost.

Referring to fig. 9, a sixth side of the pumpable two-component resin system 90 includes a resin line 92 and a catalyst line 94. The resin line 92 and the catalyst line 94 each have an inlet 96, 102 and an outlet 98, 104. The inlet 96 of the resin line 92 is connected to and in fluid communication with a resin cylinder pump 106. The inlet 102 of the catalyst line 94 is connected to and in fluid communication with a catalyst cylinder pump 108. Outlets 98 and 104 are connected to grout tube 66, which serves as a transfer line, although other suitable configurations may be used. The resin cylinder pump 106 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108 are connected to the respective supply pumps 110 and 112 via a resin supply line 114 and a catalyst supply line 116. The supply pumps 110 and 112 pump the resin 126 and catalyst 128 from the respective reservoirs 118 and 120 through the respective resin supply line 114 and catalyst supply line 116 and into the respective resin cylinder pump 106 and catalyst cylinder pump 108. As shown in fig. 9, the resin cylinder pump 106 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108 are driven together so as to move in a ratio of about 2: a constant volume ratio of 1 injects resin 126 and catalyst 128, but other suitable ratios may be used. Slave pumps 106 and 108 are controlled by individual pistons 113, and pistons 113 are operated by hydraulic pump 115. Hydraulic pump 115 may have a maximum output pressure of 1,200psi that has proven effective to inject resin 126 and catalyst 128 into borehole 130 via 1/2 inch diameter tubing having a length in excess of 50 feet, although other suitable pumps may be used. While a single piston 113 controls both the resin cylinder pump 106 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108, one or more cylinders or pistons may be used to control the pumps 106 and 108 to ensure that the desired resin/catalyst ratio is achieved. For example, a dual servomotor controlled cylinder configuration may be provided to ensure equal pressure is applied to the pumps 106 and 108.

Supply pumps 110 and 112 are diaphragm pumps, but other types of pumps suitable for pumping high viscosity materials may be used, such as valve-cut pumps, screw pumps, and the like. The pumpable two-component resin system 90 shown in fig. 9 generally operates in the same manner as the system 10 shown in fig. 1-3 and discussed above. The supply pumps 110 and 112 are used to fill respective cylinders 122 and 124 of the resin cylinder pump 106 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108 to a predetermined level of each cylinder 122 and 124. Resin cylinder pump 106 and catalyst cylinder pump 108 are then activated to dispense resin 126 and catalyst 128 simultaneously. To achieve the desired ratio of resin to catalyst, the volume of the resin cylinder 122 is typically about twice that of the catalyst cylinder 124. In a manner similar to that shown in fig. 2 and 3, the resin 126 and catalyst 128 will fill the borehole 130, and the bolt is then inserted into the borehole 130. The resin cylinder pump 106 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108 can then be recharged by means of the supply pumps 110 and 112. Each of the accumulators 118 and 120 may be a hopper having a double auger structure 132, which is more clearly shown in FIG. 11, although other suitable accumulator structures may be used. The twin auger structure 132 allows for continuous mixing of the components to prevent separation or drying of the resin and catalysts 126 and 128. The reservoirs 118 and 120 may be fed using a larger "fish" or bale 139 or other vessel containing the resin and catalyst 126, 128. As discussed in more detail below, grout tube 66 is connected to anchor lever arm 140 and is movable relative to anchor lever arm 140 to allow insertion of grout tube 66 into bore hole 130 to deliver grout. The system shown in fig. 9 may utilize any of the other configurations shown in fig. 1-8 and described above.

Referring to FIG. 10, the pumpable two-component resin system 90 shown in FIG. 9 and described above may use a screw pump for the supply pumps 110 and 112 instead of the diaphragm pump shown in FIG. 9. However, the system 90 will operate in the same manner as described above.

Referring to fig. 12A-12D, one aspect of a method 134 for installing a mine roof bolt is illustrated. The method 134 may provide an automated structure for injecting and installing mine roof bolts using a bolting machine (not shown). After drilling the borehole 136 using the bolter, as shown in fig. 12A, a grout tube 138 is inserted into the borehole 136 using an anchor rod arm 140 of the bolter. As shown in fig. 12B and 12C, a resin component 142 and a catalyst component 144 are injected into the borehole 136, and the grout tube 138 is withdrawn at a suitable rate to prevent air pockets (air pockets) or flow of the resin 142 and catalyst 144 from bypassing the top end of the grout tube 138. As shown in FIG. 12D, once the desired amount of resin 142 and catalyst 144 are provided within borehole 136, grout tube 138 is removed from borehole 136. The mine roof bolt may then be inserted into the borehole 136 and rotated to mix the resin 142 and catalyst 144 in the same manner as described above in connection with fig. 1-3. Further, the method illustrated in fig. 12A-12D may use any of the systems and structures illustrated in fig. 1-11. The bolter may be configured to automatically drill the borehole 136, inject the resin 142 and catalyst 144 into the borehole 136, and mix the resin 142 and catalyst 144 by inserting the bolt into the borehole 136 and rotating the bolt, thereby installing the mine roof bolt. The bolter may control the installation of the mine roof bolt using a controller (e.g., a PLC) and one or more sensors. Grout tube 138 may be driven by a first set of drive wheels 146 and a second set of drive wheels 148, although any suitable structure for inserting and retracting grout tube 138 may be used.

Referring to fig. 13, a pumpable two-component resin system 150 is similar to the system 90 shown in fig. 9 and discussed above. However, rather than using supply pumps 110 and 112 as in the system 90 of FIG. 9, the system 150 of FIG. 13 utilizes a supply pump arrangement 152 having a resin supply cylinder 154 and a catalyst supply cylinder 156, the resin supply cylinder 154 and the catalyst supply cylinder 156 being driven together to feed the resin cylinder pump 106 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108, respectively. The cylinders 154 and 156 are controlled by a master piston 158, the master piston 158 being operated by a hydraulic pump (not shown). Resin supply 154 and catalyst supply 156 may be fed with resin and catalyst cartridges 160, 162 or other suitable configurations as described above. For example, the resin and catalyst may be provided to the cylinders 154 and 156 via any suitable container, such as a bucket, bag, bladder, or the like. The resin and catalyst cartridges 160 and 162 may be supplied to the cylinders 154 and 156 by removing the covers 164, which will be discussed in more detail below and shown in fig. 15 and 16. Instead of using a resin supply cylinder 154 and a catalyst supply cylinder 156 driven together, the cylinders 154 and 156 may be piston or bladder accumulators having transducers for measuring the position of the piston or bladder. The accumulator may be operated hydraulically or pneumatically. The accumulator is typically smaller and lighter than the cylinder construction shown in fig. 13. Also, for the same reason, resin cylinder pump 106 and catalyst cylinder pump 108 may be piston or bladder accumulators. The system 150 may be provided on the bolter as a separate unit, wherein the system 150 itself has a source of hydraulic fluid/pressure and/or compressed air/pressure, but other suitable structures, such as incorporated into the hydraulic structure of the bolter, may be utilized.

Referring to fig. 14A to 14D, other methods of installing a mine roof bolt using the systems 10, 40, 70, 80 and 90 discussed above are shown. The amount of turbulence introduced into the grout injection line may be used to control the mixing and/or non-mixing of the resin and catalyst during injection. The basic characteristics that control the amount of turbulence are the viscosity of the two components, the inner diameter and length of the injection tube, and the flow rate. Changes in any of these parameters can change the flow characteristics from turbulent (mixing) to laminar (non-mixing). This flow rate characteristic, as well as being able to control whether the flow is turbulent or laminar, or a combination thereof, is important for proper installation of the mine roof bolt in the systems 10, 40, 70, 80 and 90 discussed above. In some cases, it is undesirable to mix the resin and catalyst because the resin may solidify before the bolt is installed. However, in other cases, it may be desirable to fully mix or partially mix the resin and catalyst during injection.

Referring to fig. 14A, the system 200 uses a split-type injection tube 202 to keep the two components separated. The resin and catalyst are placed side-by-side in the borehole as they exit the injection tube. Turbulent and laminar flow are not a problem with the system 200 and method. The method of using the system 200 generally includes: drilling a drill hole; inserting the injection tube 202 into the borehole; pumping the resin and catalyst at any flow rate that prevents mixing; withdrawing the injection pipe 202 at a set rate while pumping the resin and the catalyst to prevent cavitation and backflow in front of the injection pipe 202; and installing and rotating the mine roof bolt (not shown) to mix the resin and catalyst. The system 200 may be configured to automatically retract the injection tube 202 at a set rate based on the volumetric flow rates of the resin and catalyst. As discussed above, the anchor rod arm 140 may be programmed to automatically retract the tube 202 at a set rate. Typical characteristics of this method are as follows:

resin viscosity: 125,000cps to 225,000cps

Catalyst viscosity: 10,000cps to 25,000cps

Injection line ID: 3/4 inch (3/4')

Injection line length: 14 ft (14')

Flow rate: 1gpm to 3gpm

Referring to fig. 14B, the system 210 utilizes a single injection line 212. For a 33mm borehole, a typical size for the injection line 212 is 3/4 inches. The resin and catalyst were pumped into the Y-joint at a slower rate to maintain laminar flow. The resin and catalyst will be arranged side by side with a small mixing taking place at the same time. As the resin and catalyst exit the injection line 212, they will remain side-by-side in the borehole. The mine roof bolt is then inserted into the separated resin and catalyst and rotated to mix the resin and catalyst. Typical attributes of this approach are as follows:

resin viscosity: 200,000cps to 225,000cps

Catalyst viscosity: 20,000cps to 25,000cps

Injection line ID: 3/4 inches

Injection line length: 14 feet

Flow rate: 1gpm to 1.5gpm

In the case of the method using the system 210 of FIG. 14B, if the flow rate increases from laminar flow to an intermediate flow rate, then little mixing will occur in the injection line 212. This flow rate was about 1.5 gpm. When the resin and catalyst are injected, the slight mixing of the resin and catalyst will result in the formation of small hardened pieces of mixed resin and catalyst within the raw resin and catalyst, the hardened pieces having a width of 1/8 inches, a length of 1/2 inches, and a thickness of 1/16 inches. During this portion of the mixing process, about only 10% of the resin may react with the catalyst. The resin/catalyst reaction fragments act as smaller mixing blades when installing the mine roof bolt.

The method of using the system 210 generally includes: drilling a drill hole; inserting the injection line 212 into the borehole; pumping the resin and catalyst at a laminar flow rate to prevent mixing; while pumping, withdraw the injection line 212 at a set rate to prevent cavitation and backflow ahead of the injection line 202; and installing and rotating the mine roof bolt (not shown) to mix the resin and catalyst.

Referring to fig. 14C, the system 220 uses a single injection line 222. A typical size for the injection line 222 is 3/4 inches. The resin and catalyst are pumped to the Y-junction at a faster rate to create an intermediate flow to turbulence. The resin and catalyst mix as they flow through the injection tube 222. In one aspect of the method, the grout tube 224 may be attached to the mine roof bolt and remain in the cured resin/catalyst mixture. In other aspects, however, the mine roof bolt may be installed after the resin and catalyst are injected, as described above in connection with the system of fig. 14B. Typical characteristics of this method are as follows:

resin viscosity: 125,000cps to 150,000cps

Catalyst viscosity: 10,000cps to 15,000cps

Injection line ID: 3/4 inches

Injection line length: 14 feet

Flow rate: 2.0 to 2.5gpm

The method of installing the system 220 of FIG. 14C generally includes: drilling a drill hole; connecting the injection line 222 to a grout tube 224 placed beside a mine roof bolt (not shown) or inserting the injection line 222 into the end of the borehole; pumping predetermined amounts of resin and catalyst into the borehole at a turbulent flow rate to mix the resin and catalyst; and stopping pumping when the borehole is full. The mine roof bolt will be fully installed and no longer need to be rotated due to turbulence and pre-mixing of the resin and catalyst.

Referring to fig. 14D, the system 230 utilizes a single injection line 232 and creates a point anchoring structure. For a 33mm borehole, a typical size for the injection line 232 is 3/4 inches. At the beginning of the injection, the resin and catalyst are pumped at a faster rate to the Y-junction to create a turbulent (mixed) flow, and then at a predetermined location, the flow is switched to a laminar (non-mixed) flow. The mixed resin/catalyst at the top section 234 of the borehole begins to react while the resin and catalyst at the bottom 236 of the borehole do not react or start (setup). The mine roof bolt (not shown) is quickly installed and rotated to mix the bottom section 236, beginning the reaction time of the mixed resin and catalyst. The top section 234, which is mixed during injection, sets before the bottom section 236 to allow the bolt to be torqued, thereby creating tension in the bolt before the bottom section 236 sets. System 230 is similar to a point-anchored rebar anchor that uses a fast resin/catalyst pack at the top and a slow resin/catalyst pack at the bottom. Typical characteristics of this method are as follows:

resin viscosity: 125,000cps to 225,000cps

Catalyst viscosity: 10,000cps to 25,000cps

Injection line ID: 3/4 inches

Injection line length: 14 feet

Flow rate: 1gpm to 2.5gpm

The method of installing the system of FIG. 14D generally includes: drilling a drill hole; inserting the injection line 232 into the end of the borehole; pumping predetermined amounts of resin and catalyst into the borehole at a turbulent flow rate to mix the resin and catalyst; switching to a laminar flow rate of the resin and the catalyst to prevent mixing after supplying the resin and the catalyst at a turbulent flow rate for a predetermined period of time or a predetermined amount; withdrawing the injection line 232 at a set rate while pumping at turbulent and laminar flow rates to prevent cavitation and backflow ahead of the injection line 202; and installing and rotating the mine roof bolt (not shown) to mix the resin and catalyst. As described above, the top section 234 of resin/catalyst injected at a turbulent flow rate (and thus mixing of resin and catalyst) solidifies first to allow a driving member, such as a nut, at the bottom of the mine roof bolt to be torqued to tension the mine roof bolt.

Referring to fig. 15 and 16, a resin pack 160 and a catalyst pack 162 may be supplied into the cylinders 154 and 156 by removing a cover 164. Any suitable structure may be utilized to move the cover 164 relative to the cylinders 154 and 156. The lid 164 may be hinged, laterally movable or vertically movable using a gate valve like configuration, and the cylinders 154 and 156 may be movable via sliding mounts. The resin and catalyst packages 160, 162 may be provided using various ratios of resin to catalyst from 1:1 to 95: 5. In one aspect, the ratio may be about 2:1, where the resin and catalyst are provided separately in the bales 160 and 162. The cylinders 154 and 156 include ports 166 that extend through the side walls of the cylinders 154 and 156, but the ports 166 may also be disposed within the cover 164 as shown in phantom in fig. 15 and 16. The port 166 may be an 3/4 inch hose connection port, but other suitable connectors and ports may be used. The cartridges 160 and 162 include a body 168, the body 168 defining a space for receiving a resin or catalyst. The body 168 may be formed of a non-reactive plastic material such as nylon, polypropylene, or a polytetrafluoroethylene-based material, although other suitable materials may be used. In one example, the body 168 for the resin cartridge 160 is formed of nylon and the body 168 for the catalyst cartridge 162 is formed of polyethylene. The nylon exhibits an effect of effectively preventing styrene from migrating out of the sachet 160. The polyethylene prevents water from migrating out of the catalyst package 162. The resin bale 160 may be 6 inches in diameter, the catalyst bale 162 may be 4 inches in diameter, and each bale 160 and 162 may have a height of 14 inches, which corresponds to the size of the cylinders 154 and 156, although suitable sizes may be utilized. The body 168 of the resin cartridges 160 and 162 may have a thickness of 6 mils to 10 mils. In one aspect, the body 168 has a thickness of 6 mils.

Referring again to fig. 15 and 16, the cap 164 and the cylinders 154, 156 define a gap 170 between the cap 164 and the cylinders 154, 156. The gap 170 allows air to escape from within the cylinders 154 and 156 during initial compression of the cartridges 160 and 162 within the cylinders 154 and 156. If the cover 164 forms an airtight seal with the cylinders 154 and 156, air will be trapped within the cylinders 154 and 156 and eventually forced out through the grout tube 66, which results in undesirable air explosions or bursts, uneven flow and/or turbulent mixing of the resin and catalyst. As shown in fig. 16, when the cartridges 160 and 162 are compressed, air will escape through the gap 170, causing the body 168 of the cartridges 160 and 162 to expand to seal the gap 170 between the cap 164 and the cylinders 154 and 156. Thus, the cap 164 and cylinders 154, 156 form a self-sealing design in which the resin and catalyst do not escape through the gap 170, and the plastic bag does not break or become extruded through the gap 170. Furthermore, when the cartridges 160 and 162 are compressed and pressurized, the body 168 of the cartridges 160 and 162 will only be pierced at the location of the port 166 and flow directly into the port 166 for eventual delivery to the borehole. When the cylinders 154 and 156 are fully compressed, only the body 168 of the bales 160 and 162 and a minimal amount of resin or catalyst remains. The body 168 of the pods 160 and 162 may then be discarded and the cylinders 154 and 156 may be reloaded with the complete pods 160 and 162. The configuration of the cylinders 154 and 156, the cartridges 160 and 162, and the cover 164 keeps the cylinders 154 and 156 clean for loading and unloading during use, and protects the seals of the pistons of the cylinders 154 and 156 from wear caused by the resin material. Additionally, the cylinders 154 and 156 may also be provided with separate bladders (not shown) located within the cylinders 154 and 156 that receive the cartridges 160 and 162. The separate bladder may be made of rubber, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or other suitable flexible bladder material. Separate bladders may provide additional layers of protection for the cylinders 154 and 156.

Still referring to fig. 15, port 166 may be in fluid communication with a valve 167, such as a one-way check valve, and valve 167 is in fluid communication with the atmosphere. As discussed above, after the bodies 168 of the cartridges 160 and 162 are compressed, the cylinders 154 and 156 are retracted, which creates a vacuum. The valve 167 allows air to enter the cylinders 154 and 156 via the port 166 to break the vacuum, thereby preventing the body 168 of the pods 160 and 162 from being pulled into the port 166, which may inhibit the removal of the pods 160 and 162 after the contents of the pods 160 and 162 are drained away.

Referring to fig. 17 and 18, a fill pipe assembly 240 according to another aspect of the present invention includes a connection fitting 242, the connection fitting 242 receiving a first pipe 244 and a second pipe 246. The connection fitting 242 has a first port 248 in fluid communication with the first tube 244 and a second port 250 in fluid communication with the second tube 246. The second tube 246 is received within the first tube 244. A second tube 246 extends through the connection fitting 242 and is connected to a second port 250. The first tube 244 is connected to an end connector 252 of the connection fitting 242, and the first port 248 is in fluid communication with an annular space between the first tube 244 and the second tube 246. The connection fitting 242 may be a push-to-connect (push-to-connect) fitting, but other suitable connections and fittings may be used. The first tube 244 and the second tube 246 may be polymer tubes such as nylon, polyethylene, cross-linked polyethylene, and the like. The second tube 246 may be used for resin and the first tube 244 may be used for catalyst, but it is also possible that the second tube 246 is used for catalyst and the first tube 244 is used for resin. The resin cylinder pump 106 discussed above may be connected to the second port 250 and the catalyst cylinder pump 108 may be connected to the first port 248 to deliver catalyst and resin into the borehole. A lubricant may be provided on the tubes 244 and 246 to improve the flow of resin and catalyst through the tubes 244 and 246. The lubricant may be disposed inside the first tube 244, outside the second tube 246, and/or inside the second tube 246.

Referring to fig. 19, the separation type injection pipe 202 of fig. 14A may be a D-shaped pipe structure. Specifically, the split-type injection tube 202 may include two D-shaped sections 260 and 262 for resin and catalyst, respectively. The separate injection tube 202 may be made of nylon, but other suitable materials may be used.

Referring to fig. 20, the divided type injection pipe 202 of fig. 14A may also be two separate pipes 270 and 272, the pipes 270 and 272 being heat-welded to each other along the longitudinal axes of the pipes 270 and 272.

The systems 10, 40, 70, 80, 90, 200, 210, 220, 230 and various configurations discussed above may be used in conjunction with any suitable rock bolt, including cable bolts, friction bolts, rebar bolts, and the like. For example, the systems 10, 40, 70, 80, 90, 200, 210, 220, and 230 may be used in conjunction with the friction bolts shown and described in U.S. provisional patent application No.62/366,345 (which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) filed on even 25/7/2016. Furthermore, the rock bolt may be a hollow bolt without providing a separate injection or grouting pipe, wherein the resin and catalyst are supplied to the borehole via the hollow core.

Referring to fig. 21, grout tube 224 may be attached to mine bolt 36, with mine bolt 36 and grout tube 224 inserted into the borehole (as discussed above in connection with fig. 14C). The grout tube 224 is secured to the mine bolt 36 at a plurality of spaced apart locations using wires or straps, although other suitable structures may be used to secure the grout tube 224 to the mine bolt 36. The resin and catalyst are delivered into the borehole via the grout tube 224, wherein the grout tube 224 and bolt 36 are surrounded by the resin and grout and remain in the borehole as the resin cures. A grout tube 224 may be connected to the injection tube 222, wherein after the resin and catalyst are delivered, the grout tube 224 is separated from the injection tube 222 so that the injection tube 222 and connector 38 may be used to install additional bolts 36. The injection tube 222 and the connector 38 may be in fluid communication with the static mixer 62 discussed above. The mine bolt 36 may be a cable bolt, such as a bifilar cable bolt having a plurality of balls (bulb) along the length of the bolt 36, although other suitable cable bolts may be used. The mine anchor 36 may also have a length of at least 30 feet, although other suitable length cable anchors may also be used.

Referring to fig. 22-25, an injection fitting 280 for a pumpable resin system is shown according to another embodiment. The injection fitting 280 includes a body 282, the body 282 having a first end 284 and a second end 286 positioned opposite the first end 284. The body 282 defines a central opening 288 at the second end 286 of the body 282, the central opening 288 configured to receive a rock bolt. A central opening 288 extends from the second end 286 of the body 282 to a location on the body 282 intermediate the first and second ends 284, 286. The injection fitting 280 further includes a grout body 290, the grout body 290 defining a space 292 between the main body 282 and the grout body 290. The grouting body 290 has a first end 294 and a second end 296 positioned opposite the first end 294. The body 282 defines a pair of grout openings 298 in fluid communication with the central opening 288 of the body 282. The body 282 is rotatable relative to the grout body 290. The grout body 290 defines a resin port 300 and a catalyst port 302, both the resin port 300 and the catalyst port 302 being in fluid communication with the space 292 between the main body 282 and the grout body 290 and the grout opening 298 of the main body 282.

The body 282 is cylindrical and includes a drive head 304 at a first end 284 of the body 282, the drive head 304 being configured to engage a drive tool (not shown), such as a drill boom of a mine bolting machine. The grout body 290 is annular and receives the main body 282 within the central opening 306 defined by the grout body 290. The body 282 and/or the grout body 290 include a pair of seals 308, the seals 308 configured to provide a sealing interface between the body 282 and the grout body 290. As the body 282 is rotated by the drive head 304, the body 282 is free to rotate relative to the grout body 290. Axial movement of the body 282 relative to the grout body 290 may be limited by a retaining clip (not shown) at the second end 286 of the body 282 or a flange (not shown) protruding from the body 282, although other suitable structures for limiting axial movement of the body 282 relative to the grout body 290 may also be used.

The grout body 290 also includes a water port 310 in fluid communication with the grout opening 298 of the body 282. Alternatively, the body 282 may define another port for injecting water. The water port 310 may be used to inject water or a water and oil solution (water and oil solution) after each use to flush the fitting 280. The body 282 includes a threaded portion 312 adjacent a central opening 288 of the body 282. As shown in fig. 25, the threaded portion 312 of the body 282 is configured to receive a corresponding threaded portion 314 of a rock bolt 316. More specifically, the rock bolt 316 may be a self drilling rock bolt defining a central opening 318, the central opening 318 configured to be in fluid communication with the central opening 288 of the injection fitting 280 when the rock bolt 316 is secured to the fitting 280. In one aspect, the rock bolt 316 is secured to the fitting 280 by means of engagement of the respective threaded portions 312 and 314. The rock bolt 316 includes a drill bit 320, the drill bit 320 being configured to drill a borehole into the rock formation.

Referring to fig. 24, the body 282 includes a pair of wipers 322, the wipers 322 extending radially outward from the body 282 into the space 292 between the body 282 and the grout body 290. The wiper 322 is configured to remove resin and catalyst from the inner surface 324 of the grout body 290. The wiper 322 may extend from the first end 294 of the grout body 290 to the second end 296 of the grout body 290. Although two wipers 322 are shown, one or more wipers 322 may also be used.

Referring again to fig. 22-25, the fitting 280 may be used as follows: the rock bolt 316 is secured to the injection fitting 280 with respective threaded portions 312 and 314. The rock bolt 316 is used to drill a borehole into the formation using engagement with the drive head 304. The grout body 290 remains fixed relative to the body 282 of the fitting 280 and the rock bolt 316 during rotation of the body 282 of the fitting 280 and the rock bolt 316. Water or drilling fluid may be supplied to the drill bit 320 via the central opening 318 of the rock bolt 316 and one of the ports 300, 302, 310 of the injection fitting 280. The rock bolt 316 may be grouted by supplying resin and catalyst to the resin port 300 and catalyst port 302 using any of the supply systems discussed herein. The resin and catalyst flow through the respective ports 300 and 302, into the space 292 between the main body 282 and the grout body 290, and into the central opening 288 of the main body 282 via the grout opening 298 of the main body 282. The resin and catalyst may then flow from the central opening 288 of the body 282 through the central opening 318 of the rock bolt 316 and into the borehole previously drilled by the rock bolt. The body 282 is then disengaged from the rock bolt 316 by unscrewing the body 282 from the rock bolt 316. The fitting 280 may be flushed with water or a water-oil solution via the water port 310 to clean the fitting 280 and prevent the cured resin from building up within the fitting 280. The other rock bolts 316 may then be installed using the same procedure discussed above.

Referring to fig. 26A-26C, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention, an injection fitting 330 includes a body 332, the body 332 having a first end 334 and a second end 336 positioned opposite the first end 334. The body 332 defines a resin port 338, a catalyst port 340, and a water port 342. The first end 334 of the body 332 is configured to engage an arm support of a mine bolting machine. The fitting 330 further includes a rock bolt engaging member 344, the rock bolt engaging member 344 having a body 346 with a tapered surface 348, the tapered surface 348 being configured to engage with a rock bolt 350 and form a seal with the rock bolt 350. The body 346 may be made of a resilient material, but the body 346 may be made of any suitable material capable of forming a seal with the rock bolt 350. The rock bolt engaging member 344 is secured to the main body 332. The rock bolting engagement member 344 may be secured to the main body 332 by means of a threaded arrangement, but any suitable securing arrangement may be used to secure the rock bolting engagement member 344 to the main body 33. Resin may be supplied to the resin port 338 via the boom or a separate injection line connected to the boom.

The tapered surface 348 of the rock bolt engagement member 344 may define an interior space 352, wherein the resin port 338 and the catalyst port 340 are in fluid communication with the interior space 352. During use, the tapered surface 348 of the rock bolt engaging member 344 engages the rock bolt 350 and forms a seal with the rock bolt 350. Resin and catalyst are supplied to the resin ports 338 and catalyst ports 340, into the interior space, and then through the central opening 354 defined by the rock bolt 350. During injection of the resin and catalyst, the upward force from the boom is sufficient to cause the body 346 of the rock bolt engaging member 344 to form a seal with the rock bolt 350. The body 332 may be flushed with an oil/water mixture using the water port 342. The rock bolt 350 may be a self drilling rock bolt.

Referring to fig. 27, a pumpable system 370 according to another aspect of the invention includes a control module 372, a hydraulic motor 374, a hydraulic accumulator 376, a loading cylinder bank 378 and a shooting cylinder bank 380. Control module 372 is electrically connected to hydraulic motor 374, charge cylinder set 378, and injection cylinder set 380. Similar to system 150 shown in fig. 13 and discussed above, loading cylinder set 378 includes a resin loading cylinder 382 and a catalyst loading cylinder 384, and shooting cylinder set 380 includes a resin shooting cylinder 386 and a catalyst shooting cylinder 388. Cylinders 382, 384, 386, and 388 each include a linear encoder in communication with control module 372. The control module 372 is configured to dispense predetermined amounts of resin and catalyst from the injection cylinders 386 and 388 based on input from a user. The control module 372 may include some predetermined configuration for dispensing predetermined amounts of resin and catalyst, and may also allow for tailoring of the dispensed amounts of resin and catalyst. Control module 372 may be a PLC controller, but any other suitable configuration may be used. The hydraulic motors are in fluid communication with the hydraulic accumulator 376 and supply hydraulic fluid to the loading cylinder set 378 and the injection cylinder set 380 based on input from the control module 372. While a programmable control module 372 may be used, the system 370 may also be used manually to turn the hydraulic motor 374 on or off to dispense resin and catalyst from the cylinders 382, 384, 386, 388.

The shooting pot groups may be fed from a hydraulic motor 374 by way of a mechanical spool valve (not shown). The spool valve can supply twice the volume of hydraulic fluid from accumulator 376 to resin injection cylinder 386 as compared to catalyst injection cylinder 388 to achieve a 2: resin and catalyst in a ratio of 1. Alternatively, servo valves may be used to electronically control cylinders 386 and 388 to achieve a desired resin/catalyst supply ratio.

Referring to fig. 28-31, the loading cylinder set 378 is similar to the system 150 shown in fig. 13 and discussed above, and operates similar to the system 150. However, rather than loading the cartridges 160 and 162 via the cap 164, the cylinders 382 and 384 each include rotatable chambers 390 and 392, the chambers 390 and 392 rotating from a dispensing position where the chambers 390 and 392 are aligned with respective piston heads 394 and 396 to a loading position where the chambers 390 and 392 are positioned at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the piston heads 394 and 396. In the loading position, the cartridges 160 and 162 may be loaded into the chambers 390 and 392, and then the chambers 390 and 392 are moved to the dispensing position to allow the piston heads 394 and 396 to supply resin and catalyst to the shooting pot set 380. The cylinder-loading set 378 may include a locking structure to prevent actuation of the piston heads 394 and 396 when the chambers 390 and 392 are in the loading position. Loading cylinders 382 and 384 also include stationary cylinders 398 and 400. Stationary cylinders 398 and 400 may have the same diameter and length. Resin chamber 390 and catalyst chamber 392 may have different diameters, with piston heads 394 and 396 sized to mate with resin chamber 390 and catalyst chamber 392. Resin piston head 394 and catalyst piston head 396 include clean seals configured to remove resin and catalyst from chambers 390 and 392. The cleaning seal may be a polymeric material. In one aspect, the clean seal is made of high density polyethylene, although other suitable materials may be used. Once the clean seal is worn, the clean seal can be easily replaced. The resin loading chamber 390 and the catalyst loading chamber 392 may include piercing members (not shown) configured to pierce the cartridges 160 and 162 upon activation of the cylinders 382 and 384.

Referring to fig. 32-34, the shooting pot set 380 is similar to the system 150 shown in fig. 13 and discussed above, and operates similar to the system 150. The injection cylinders 386 and 388 receive resin and catalyst from the loading cylinders 382 and 384 and are configured to supply the resin and catalyst to the borehole via bolts, grout tubes, or other suitable structures. The injection cylinders 386 and 388 include chambers 404 and 406 and hydraulic cylinders 408 and 410, respectively. The chambers 404 and 406 may have the same diameter, but different lengths. The cylinders 408 and 410 may also have the same diameter, but different lengths.

Referring to fig. 35, the system 370 is shown positioned on the bolter 412. The loading cylinder set 378 may be positioned on the side of the bolter 412 to allow easy access to load the bales 160 and 162 into the cylinders 382 and 384. The control panel 414 may be positioned in a cab 416 of the bolter 412. The control panel 414 communicates with the control module 372 to allow the operator of the bolter 412 to control the supply of resin and catalyst to the bolter arm 418 as discussed above. The control module 372, hydraulic motor 374, accumulator 376, cylinder loading set 378, and cylinder injection set 380 may be disposed within a housing or guard to protect the above components from the surrounding environment.

Referring to fig. 37 and 38, the system 370 may also be provided as a separate unit on the carriage 420. Although not shown, control module 372, hydraulic motor 374, accumulator 376, loading cylinder set 378, and injection cylinder set 380 may also be disposed within a housing or guard on carriage 420 to protect the above components from the surrounding environment. The carriage 420 and system 370 may generally be used in conjunction with any of the structures discussed above in connection with systems 10, 40, 70, 80, 90, 200, 210, 220, and 230.

Other non-limiting examples of the invention will now be described in the following numbered items.

Item 1: a fitting for a pumpable resin system for installing a rock bolt 316, the fitting comprising: a body 282 defining a central opening 288, the central opening 288 configured to receive a rock bolt 316, the body 282 defining a grout opening 298 in fluid communication with the central opening 288; and a grouting body 290 defining a space between the main body 282 and the grouting body 290, the main body 282 being rotatable with respect to the grouting body 290, the grouting body 290 defining a resin port 300 and a catalyst port 302, the resin port 300 and the catalyst port 302 being in fluid communication with the space and a grouting opening 298 of the main body 282.

Item 2: the fitting of claim 1, wherein the body 282 includes a drive head 304, the drive head 304 configured to engage with a drive tool.

Item 3: the fitting of claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the body 282 and the grout body 290 further defines a nozzle 310.

Item 4: the fitting of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the grout body 290 is annular and receives the body 282.

Item 5: the fitting of item 4, wherein one of the grout body 290 and the main body 282 comprises at least one seal 308, the at least one seal 308 configured to provide a sealing interface between the main body 282 and the grout body 290.

Item 6: the fitting of any of claims 1-5, wherein the body 282 includes a threaded portion 312 adjacent the central opening 288.

Item 7: the fitting of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the body 282 comprises at least one wiper 322, the at least one wiper 322 extending radially outward from the body 282 into a space between the body 282 and the grout body 290.

Item 8: a rock bolting system comprising: a fitting comprising a body 282 and a grout body 290, the body 282 defining a central opening 288, the central opening 288 configured to receive a rock bolt 316, the grout body 290 defining a space between the body 282 and the grout body 290, the body 282 defining a grout opening 298 in fluid communication with the central opening 288, the body 282 rotatable relative to the grout body 290, the grout body 290 defining a resin port 300 and a catalyst port 302, the resin port 300 and the catalyst port 302 in fluid communication with the space and the grout opening 298 of the body 282; and a self drilling rock bolt defining a central opening 288, the central opening 288 of the rock bolt 316 being configured to be in fluid communication with the central opening 288 of the fitting 280 when the rock bolt 316 is secured to the fitting 280, the self drilling rock bolt having a drill bit 320.

Item 9: a fitting 330 for a pumpable resin system for installing a rock bolt 350, the fitting 330 comprising: a body 332 having a first end 334 and a second end 336 located opposite the first end 334, the body 332 defining a resin port 338 and a catalyst port 340, the first end 334 of the body 332 configured to engage with a boom of a mining bolting machine; and a rock bolt engaging member 344 including a main body 346 having a tapered surface 348, the tapered surface 348 being configured to engage and form a seal with the rock bolt, the rock bolt engaging member 344 being secured to the main body 346.

Item 10: the fitting of claim 9 wherein the tapered surface 348 defines an interior space 352, the body resin port 338 and the catalyst port 340 being in fluid communication with the interior space 352.

Item 11: a rock bolting system comprising: a fitting 350 including a body 332, the body 332 having a first end 334 and a second end 336 located opposite the first end 334, the body 332 defining a resin port 338 and a catalyst port 340, the first end 334 of the body 332 configured to engage an arm rest of a mining bolting machine, the fitting further including a rock bolt engagement member 344, the rock bolt engagement member including a body 346 having a tapered surface 348, the rock bolt engagement member 344 being secured to the body 346; and a self drilling rock bolt 350 defining a central opening 354, the central opening 354 of the rock bolt 350 being configured to be in fluid communication with an interior space 352 defined by the tapered surface 348 of the rock bolt engaging member 344, the self drilling rock bolt 350 having a drill bit.

Item 12: a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt, comprising: a resin cartridge 160 comprising a first material; a catalyst pack 162 comprising a second material, the first material of the resin pack 160 being different from the second material of the catalyst pack 162; resin pump structures 24, 56, 106, and 378 configured to receive the resin cartridge 160; catalyst pump structures 26, 58, 108, and 380 configured to receive catalyst cartridge 162; and transfer lines 12, 14, 39, 66, 102, 212, 224, 232, 244, and 246 in fluid communication with at least one of the resin pump structures 24, 56, 106, 378 and the catalyst pump structures 26, 58, 108, 380.

Item 13: the system of claim 12, wherein the first material comprises nylon and the second material comprises polyethylene.

Item 14: the system of claim 12 or 13, wherein the transfer lines 12, 14, 39, 66, 202, 212, 224, 232, 244, and 246 include a first tube 244 and a second tube 246 received within the first tube 244, the second tube 246 in fluid communication with the resin pump structure, and a space between the first tube 244 and the second tube 246 in fluid communication with the catalyst pump structure.

Item 15: the system of claim 14, wherein the transfer line further comprises a connection fitting 242 having a first port 248 in fluid communication with the first tube 244 and a second port 250 in fluid communication with the second tube 246.

Item 16: the system of claim 15, wherein the second tube 246 extends through the connection fitting 242 and is secured to the second port 250.

Item 17: the system of claim 15 or 16, wherein the first port 248 of the connection fitting 242 is connected to the catalyst pump structure and the second port 250 of the connection fitting 242 is connected to the resin pump structure.

Item 18: the system of any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the lubricant is disposed on one or more of an interior of the first tube 244, an exterior of the second tube 246, and an interior of the second tube 246.

Item 19: the system of any of claims 12 to 18, further comprising tie rod arms 140 and 418, the tie rod arms 140 and 418 configured to drill the boreholes 34, 64, 130 and 136 and install a mine roof tie rod, wherein the transfer lines are configured to transfer the resin 126, 142 and the catalyst 128, 144 from the resin pump structure and the catalyst pump structure via the tie rod arms 140.

Item 20: a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt, comprising: resin pump structures 24, 56, 106, and 378 configured to receive the resin cartridge 160; catalyst pump structures 26, 58, 108, and 380 configured to receive catalyst cartridge 162; and a fill tube assembly 240 including a connection fitting 242 having a first port 248 and a second port 250, the first tube 244 in fluid communication with the first port 248, the second tube 246 in fluid communication with the second port 250, the second tube 246 received within the first tube 244, the second port 250 of the connection fitting 242 connected to the resin pump structure, and the first port 248 of the connection fitting 242 connected to the catalyst pump structure.

Item 21: the system of claim 20, further comprising a bolt arm 140, the bolt arm 140 configured to drill the boreholes 34, 64, 130, and 136 and install a mine roof bolt, wherein the first and second pipes 244, 246 are configured to convey the resin 126, 142 and the catalyst 128, 144 from the resin and catalyst pump structures via the bolt arm 140.

Item 21: an injection pipe assembly for installing a pumpable resin system for a mine bolt, the injection pipe assembly comprising: a connection fitting 242 having a first port 248 and a second port 250; a first tube 244 in fluid communication with a first port 248; a second tube 246 in fluid communication with a second port 250, the second tube 246 being received within the first tube 244, the second port 250 of the connection fitting 242 being configured to connect to a resin pump structure, and the first port 248 of the connection fitting 242 being configured to connect to a catalyst pump structure.

Item 22: a cartridge assembly for a pumpable resin system for installing a mine bolt, the cartridge assembly comprising: a resin cartridge 160 that includes a first material and contains the resins 126 and 142; and a catalyst pack 162 comprising a second material and containing the catalysts 128 and 144, the first material of the resin pack 160 being different from the second material of the catalyst pack 162.

Item 23: the system of claim 22, wherein the first material comprises nylon and the second material comprises polyethylene.

Item 24: the cartridge assembly of claim 22 or 23, wherein the body of the resin cartridge 60 has a thickness of 6 mils.

Item 25: the cartridge assembly of any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the resin cartridge 160 is configured to be received by a resin pump structure and the catalyst cartridge 162 is configured to be received by a catalyst pump structure.

While various aspects of the system have been provided in the foregoing description, those skilled in the art may make modifications and alterations to these aspects or aspects without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any aspect or aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other aspect or aspect. Accordingly, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. The invention described above is defined by the specification, and all changes to the invention that fall within the meaning and range of equivalency of the specification are to be embraced within their scope.