With the compact, single-load hauling design of the Vermeer SM55 surface miner, you’re set up for efficient moves from one jobsite to the next. But how do you know if the compact-sized machine will be the most efficient on your jobsite? That’s where the Vermeer Rock Lab comes in.
Testing the rocks found on jobsites teaches you more about what you’re cutting into. With that, you’re prepped to maximize the product you’re getting from the ground.
Why should you perform rock testing before surface mining?
Rock testing turns unknown ground into a plan you can execute.
“It just gives you a lot of confidence when you test a rock,” said Roy De Vos, engineering technician for the Vermeer Rock Lab.
The Vermeer Rock Lab uses tests such as the unconfined compressive strength test, CERCHAR abrasivity test and the Vermeer Energy Index to reveal a rock’s strength, abrasivity and how brittle or ductile it is. This can help determine an estimate for how much horsepower or kilowatts is needed to break up that material.
A study published in Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering found that the rock’s unconfined compressive strength and abrasivity, and the surface miner’s engine power are the three most important factors influencing the production rate.
From the results of the rock test, you can choose the equipment and tooling to help you get the most out of your jobsite.
Why test rock with the Vermeer Rock Lab?
Simple: it’s included with being a Vermeer customer. For 20 years, the rock lab has operated with no charge to Vermeer customers or dealers.
It is a unique investment by Vermeer to better serve the mining industry; both in equipping customers to do more on their jobsites and enhancing the designs of Vermeer surface mining equipment.
“The information is good for us because we have more confidence in where our equipment is going,” De Vos said.
Testing with the Vermeer Rock Lab goes beyond finding the breaking point of rock samples.
Your Vermeer dealer can help guide you through each step – from choosing the jobsite sample to using the solutions calculator.
The Vermeer provided solutions calculator is set up for you to input the results of the rock tests, specifications of the surface miner and your operational costs. The calculator will then estimate a production rate for the jobsite where the sample was taken, enabling you to determine which mining method, machine and tooling will equip your jobsite for maximum productivity.
How Vermeer Rock Lab results help determine if the SM55 is the right surface miner
Rock testing doesn’t just give you information about the material – it provides insights into what mining method and surface mining machine is best suited for the work.
By understanding a material’s strength, abrasivity and breakage characteristics, Vermeer Rock Lab test results help indicate whether a compact surface miner like the SM55 can deliver the cutting power needed for efficient mining of that jobsite.
Powered by a 415 hp (309 kW) engine and designed to cut material up to 16,000 psi (110.3 MPa), the SM55 has powerful cutting power in a compact package, capable of handling materials like limestone and gypsum.
When test results align with those capabilities, you can move forward with greater confidence — knowing the machine is well matched to the ground conditions before it ever arrives onsite.
Travel to more jobsites with the SM55
Once insights from rock testing help confirm that the SM55 is a good fit for your jobsite, mobility becomes the next advantage.
The SM55 is a one-piece haul – that means no cranes and minimal permitting. So, when you identify opportunities and verify the needs through rock testing, you can move with simplicity to start the next job.
“I can roll it off a truck, develop a mine plan and put it to work within the first day,” said George Toubekis, Vermeer field test application engineer.
Built for transport on real‑world roads, the SM55 is a single‑load move on a 10‑axle tractor‑trailer combination. That streamlined transport minimizes downtime between jobs and helps crews spend more time mining material instead of managing logistics.
Whether moving between quarries or navigating urban areas, the SM55’s transportability supports faster starts and smoother transitions from one surface mining job to the next.
Pair rock testing with SM55 transport to confidently start your next job
With the insight from the Vermeer Rock Lab and transport simplicity of the SM55, you are equipped to optimize your performance and tackle new jobsites.
For more information on how to test samples at the Vermeer Rock Lab or the SM55, contact your local Vermeer dealer.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications.
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