Normet Xrock, a long-standing leader in rock-breaking technologies with more than three decades of OEM innovation, has introduced a breakthrough solution set to redefine underground mining safety and efficiency: the Xrock Autobreaker, the world’s first truly autonomous rock-breaking system.
Transforming a High-Risk Mining Task
Secondary rock-breaking remains one of the most crucial stages in maintaining steady ore flow. Oversized boulders, blockages, and material inconsistency can shut down production, create costly delays, and require operators to work dangerously close to crushers or grizzly structures. Traditionally, this has been one of the most hazardous manual intervention zones in any mining operation.
The Xrock Autobreaker removes the need for personnel to approach these high-risk areas. Instead, the system automatically detects, targets, and breaks down oversized materials, allowing operators to manage several units safely from a remote, protected control room.
“The goal isn’t to take people out of mining—it’s to take them out of harm’s way,” said Vesa Marttila, Global Sales Director and Breaker Booms Product Line Director at Normet Xrock. “By enabling operators to work from an office environment, not only is safety dramatically improved, but it also increases productivity and broadens the diversity of individuals able to work in underground operational roles.”
Smart Autonomy Driven by Real-Time Vision
The Autobreaker employs advanced camera systems, sensor fusion, and intelligent control algorithms to create a live 3D point cloud of the ore. It identifies boulders, selects optimal breaking points, and performs strike sequences automatically. As the ore mass changes, the system adapts in real time, planning and executing each movement of the boom without human intervention.
Fully integrated with mine control systems, the Autobreaker allows real-time oversight and optional intervention from afar—keeping people entirely out of the danger zone.
An optional pairing with the Xquick quick-coupler enables seamless automatic tool changes. One boom can shift between breakers, grapples, magnets, and other tools without requiring anyone on-site, expanding versatility and maintaining continuous operation.
A Leap Forward for Mining Efficiency and Workforce Safety
Now commercially available for grizzly applications, the autonomous module fits directly into existing Xrock breaker boom installations. This marks a major advancement for mines aiming to improve safety outcomes, reduce downtime, and maximise throughput.
“This isn’t a step toward autonomy—this is full autonomy,” said Mika Hyysti, Head of R&D at Normet Xrock. “Rock-breaking has historically required operators to work in harm’s way. With the Autobreaker, that chapter is closed.”
