AU2021305599A1 - Apparatus and method for securing an anchor bolt - Google Patents

Abstract

System for securing an anchor bolt in a borehole comprising an apparatus for inserting a grout tube (7) into the borehole, the apparatus comprising cutting means (5) for cutting the grout tube (7), and clamping means comprising primary and secondary clamping members (1, 2) to be braced against the grout tube (7), so that the tube can be cut to length.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SECURING AN ANCHOR BOLT

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a system and method for securing a bolt in a borehole. The system comprises an apparatus adapted for inserting a grout tube into the borehole. The present disclosure further relates to a method for controlling operation of the apparatus and the system.

BACKGROUND

Rock bolt reinforcement is commonly used for providing support to the roof or sides of a cavity in underground mining and in civil engineering. The bolt may be a steel rod, a rebar, or a cable bolt. The cable bolt is a reinforcing element made of steel wires in the form of a strand or rope. The bolt may be installed in a borehole drilled into the roof or walls of a rock formation.

One of the major ways of anchoring the bolt in place is adhesive fastening with a cement- or resin-based grout material, a.k.a. grouting. The bolt may be inserted in a borehole before or after filling the borehole with the grout material. The grout material needs to cure fast enough to provide a sufficient instant supporting strength but slow enough to remain pumpable for sufficient time to fill the borehole. When grouting is performed before insertion of the bolt, the speed of curing further needs to ensure sufficient time for inserting the bolt in the borehole and also for post-insertion treatments of the inserted bolt.

Grouting with a cement-based grout material is a tedious and time-consuming process. It takes 24 to 48 hours for the cement-based grout material to cure, which is too slow to provide a sufficient instant supporting strength. Before grouting a fresh batch of the cement-based grout material is required to be prepared on site with a mixing system for 10 to 15 minutes. After grouting the mixing system needs to be cleaned regularly and each cleaning time may require up to one hour per work-shift.

Fast-curing grout material based on resin has been developed to improve the grouting process. The resin-based grout material may be a polyurea silicate composition obtainable by chemical reactions of a multi-part resin system as was described in NO 319141 B1 or WO 2017180042 A1. The first part of the resin system may comprise an isocyanate, e.g. methylene diphenyl isocyanate (MDI). The second part of the resin system may comprise a silicate, e.g. sodium silicate. The multi-part resin system may further comprise a blocking agent, e.g. grease. The curing speed of the resin-based grout material is highly dependent on the ambient temperature which may vary significantly in different areas of the same mine. Curing of the resin-based grout material may be so fast that there is not even sufficient time for inserting the bolt after filling the borehole with the resin-based grout material.

Thus, the currently available grout materials as mentioned above have numerous limitations, which is challenging for further improvement of the device and method for securing a bolt in a borehole by grouting.

Mining is an inherently risky occupation. The mining environment is harmful for human health, with dangers ranging from rock collapses to inhalation of toxic particles. It should always be prioritized to minimize exposure of personnel to the harmful mining environment. Therefore, a mechanized operation of the cable bolt reinforcement has been developed which can be controlled from a cabin where operators are protected. The mechanized operation also reduces manual workload for operators thereby increasing work efficiency and productivity. The work efficiency and productivity can be further increased by automatic controls of the mechanized operation.

AU 2011202317 A1 discloses a method for securing a cable bolt in a hole drilled in a ground formation, wherein a cable bolt and an injection tube are inserted into the drilled hole before the step of pumping a multi-part resin system into the drilled hole so that the cured resin secures the cable bolt in the drilled hole. However, the device of AU 2011202317 A1 needs to be improved to enable mechanization and automation of the grouting method. The injection tube is consumed and left inside of the drilled hole in the grouting process, which poses problems of supplying and handling the injection tube for a mining machine since a mining operation usually requires drilling of a plurality of boreholes into a rock surface. Furthermore, the boreholes are usually not uniform due to the rough nature of rock, which may require cable bolts and injection tubes to have tailor-made lengths.

SUMMARY

In view of the above, one object of the present disclosure is therefore to reduce manual workload and risks for personnel at the site during operations for securing a bolt in a borehole. Another object of the disclosure is to increase work efficiency and productivity.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a novel and advantageous solution for securing a bolt in a borehole.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a robust and reliable solution for securing a bolt in a borehole.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide an alternative solution for securing a bolt in a borehole.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to improve mechanization and automation of grouting applications.

The above mentioned objects are achieved according to a first aspect of the disclosure by an apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole, wherein the grout tube is adapted for injecting a grout material, the apparatus comprises a cutting means configured to cut the grout tube, and a clamping means. The clamping means comprises a primary clamping member with a clamping surface, a secondary clamping member with a counter clamping surface, and a clamping element. The clamping element is configured to control operation of the secondary clamping member such that the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface can be braced against the grout tube which can be clamped between the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface.

The cutting means configured to cut the grout tube facilitates individualized on-site cutting of the grout tube to a length tailor-made for each borehole. Thus, the cutting means solves the problem with pre-cut grout tubes having a pre-determined length that is not universally fit for all boreholes.

The clamping means is adjustable to a stand-by mode, wherein the clamping means is unoccupied. In the stand-by mode, the clamping surface may be in contact with the counter clamping surface.

The clamping means is adjustable to an open mode, wherein a pass-through for the grout tube is formed between the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface.

The clamping means is adjustable to an engaged mode, wherein the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface are braced against the grout tube which is clamped between the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface. The clamping element enables mechanized operation of the secondary clamping member. The apparatus according to the present disclosure enables mechanized operation of inserting a grout tube into a borehole. The apparatus according to the present disclosure further enables remote and/or automatic controls of the operations for inserting a grout tube into a borehole.

Thus, the apparatus according to the present disclosure has the advantage of reducing manual workload for operators. Another advantage is that exposure of personnel to the harmful work environment may be reduced or even eliminated. Yet another advantage is that work efficiency and productivity may be increased. Yet another advantage is the more robust and more reliable solution for securing a bolt in a borehole.

In some embodiments, the apparatus as was described above may further comprise at least one axial guiding means, wherein the primary clamping member of the apparatus as was described above may be configured to move along the at least one axial guiding means such that the clamping means is able to move along the at least one axial guiding means. Thus, movement of the primary clamping member along the at least one axial guiding means enables movement of the clamping means along the at least one axial guiding means independently of the mode of the clamping means.

The apparatus as was described above may further comprise a first actuating means configured to control operation of the primary clamping member. The first actuating means is able to control movement of the clamping means along the at least one axial guiding means by controlling operation of the primary clamping member. The first actuating means enables mechanized operation of the primary clamping member.

The apparatus as was described above may further comprise a guide pipe configured to guide the grout tube. The guide pipe functions as a supporting and guiding means, which facilitates robust and reliable feeding of the grout tube into a borehole.

The cutting means of the apparatus as was described above may be connected to the guide pipe. The cutting means may be arranged at an end of the guide pipe in the proximity of the clamping means, which facilitates cutting of the grout tube by moving the clamping means in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means and over the cutting means. The arrangement is advantageous for increasing work efficiency of securing a bolt in a borehole when the step of cutting the grout tube may be combined with the step of bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with a nozzle configured to inject a grout material into the borehole. The arrangement further has the advantage of providing a lean design of the apparatus according to the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the cutting means as was described above may comprise a substantially C-shaped frame configured to be fastened on the guide pipe, and a substantially C-shaped blade arranged vertically on the substantially C-shaped frame. The specific C-shaped configuration of the cutting means is to match the contour of a tubular shaped guide pipe, which facilitates fastening of the cutting means on the guide pipe.

The cutting means may also be configured in any other shape suitable for the intended use. In some embodiments, the cutting means may be configured in V-shape.

The apparatus as was described above may further comprise a second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means. An alternative way of cutting the grout tube is by actuating the cutting means. The second actuating means provides an independent mechanism of cutting the grout tube by controlling operation of the cutting means. The second actuating means also enables mechanized operation of the cutting means.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to a second aspect of the disclosure by a system for securing a bolt in a borehole, the system comprising the apparatus as was described above and a first feeding device configured to shuttle the grout tube. The first feeding device enables mechanized operation of shuttling the grout tube.

The system according to the present disclosure has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole. The system according to the present disclosure enables mechanized operation of securing a bolt in a borehole. The system according to the present disclosure further enables remote and/or automatic controls of securing a bolt in a borehole.

The first feeding device of the system as was described above may comprise an even number of rollers configured to interact with the grout tube (7). The even number of rollers have the advantage of providing a stable first feeding device which is able to shuttle the grout tube in a precise and robust manner. The system as was described above may further comprise a second feeding device configured to shuttle a bolt. Preferably, the bolt is a cable bolt. The second feeding device enables mechanized operation of shuttling the bolt.

The second feeding device may comprise a number of rollers, preferably an even number of rollers. The even number of rollers have the advantage of providing a stable second feeding device which is able to shuttle the bolt in a precise and robust manner.

The system may further comprise a winding member such as a tube reel for supporting and storing the grout tube in a winding manner, and/or a winding member such as a cable reel for supporting and storing the cable bolt in a winding manner. The tube reel or the cable reel allows unwinding of the grout tube or the cable bolt and has the advantage of supplying the grout tube or the cable bolt for a plurality of boreholes thereby increasing work efficiency. The tube reel or the cable reel has further advantages of eliminating the risk of entangling of the grout tube or the cable bolt during a mining operation.

Furthermore, the system may comprise a cutting means configured to cut the cable bolt. The cutting means configured to cut the grout tube or the cable bolt facilitates individualized on-site cutting of the grout tube or the cable bolt to a length tailor-made for each borehole. Thus, the cutting means solves the problem with pre-cut grout tubes or cable bolts having a pre-determined length that is not be universally fit for all boreholes.

The system may further comprise a sensor wheel arranged to monitor the position of the grout tube or the bolt as well as the feeding speed, which ensures that the inserted grout tube or the inserted bolt reaches an operative depth inside a borehole. Thus, the data obtained by the sensor wheel facilitates remote and automatic control of operating the system.

The system as was described above may further comprise a nozzle configured to inject a grout material into the borehole.

It is necessary to bring the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with the nozzle for injecting a grout material into the borehole. The nozzle may have a frustoconical shaped end which is able to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube. The nozzle may also be configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube by means of a gasket. Alternatively, the nozzle may comprise an attachment configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube. The system as was described above may further comprise a third actuating means configured to control operation of the nozzle. The third actuating means enables mechanized operation of the nozzle to bring the nozzle in sealed contact with the inserted grout tube.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to a third aspect of the disclosure by a rig for securing a bolt in a borehole, the rig comprising the apparatus as was described above for inserting a grout tube. The rig has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus.

The rig as was described above may comprise the system as was described above for securing a bolt in a borehole. The rig has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the system.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to a fourth aspect of the disclosure by a method of inserting a grout tube into a borehole, which method comprising the steps of adjusting the clamping means of the apparatus as was described above to an open mode, wherein a pass-through for the grout tube is formed between the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface; positioning the apparatus such that the pass-through is In line with the borehole; shuttling the grout tube into the borehole via the pass-through formed between the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface; adjusting the clamping means of the apparatus as was described above to an engaged mode, wherein the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface are braced against the grout tube which is clamped between the clamping surface and the counter clamping surface; and cutting the grout tube with the cutting means.

The method of inserting a grout tube into a borehole has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole. The method of inserting a grout tube into a borehole according to the present disclosure may be at least partially mechanized and/or automatized.

The first actuating means configured to control operation of the primary clamping member may actuate the step of cutting the grout tube. The first actuating means is able to control movement of the clamping means in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means and over the cutting means by controlling operation of the primary clamping member. Thus, the method may combine the step of cutting the grout tube with the step of bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with a nozzle configured to inject a grout material into the borehole. The method is advantageous for increasing work efficiency of securing a bolt in a borehole. The method is also beneficial to a lean design of the apparatus as was described above.

Alternatively, the second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means may actuate the step of cutting the grout tube. An alternative way of cutting the grout tube is by actuating the cutting means. The method provides an independent mechanism of using the secondary actuating means to control operation of the cutting means for cutting the grout tube.

The alternative methods for cutting the grout tube may be at least partially mechanized and/or automatized.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to another aspect of the disclosure by a method of securing a bolt in a borehole, which method comprising the steps of inserting a grout tube into the borehole as was described above; bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with a nozzle configured to inject a grout material into the borehole; injecting the grout material through the nozzle and the inserted grout tube and into the borehole; and shuttling a bolt into the borehole.

The method of securing a bolt in a borehole has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole and the system for securing a bolt in a borehole. The method of securing a bolt in a borehole according to the present disclosure may be at least partially mechanized and/or automatized.

It is necessary to prevent leakage during the process of grouting, which may be achieved by bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with the nozzle for injecting a grout material into the borehole. The nozzle may have a frustoconical shaped part configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube. The nozzle may also be configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube by means of a gasket. Alternatively, the nozzle may comprise an attachment configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube.

The third actuating means configured to control operation of the nozzle may actuate the step of bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with the nozzle.

A sealed contact between the inserted grout tube and the nozzle may be achieved by orchestrated operations of the first and the third actuating means. The first actuating means is able to control movement of the clamping means in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means by controlling operation of the primary clamping member. The third actuating means is able to control movement of the nozzle.

The method as was described above for bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with the nozzle may be at least partially mechanized and/or automatized.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to a fifth aspect of the disclosure by a method performed by a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit for controlling operation of the apparatus as was described above for inserting a grout tube into a borehole, which method comprising the actions of obtaining data, and controlling operation of the clamping means.

The method performed by a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit for controlling operation of apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole has the advantage of at least partially automatizing the method as was described above for inserting a grout tube into a borehole.

The method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus may further comprise the action of controlling operation of the cutting means. The method as was described above has the advantage of automatizing operation of the cutting means for cutting the grout tube.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to another aspect of the disclosure by a method performed by a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit for controlling operation of the system as was described above for securing a bolt in a borehole, which method comprising the actions of controlling operation of the apparatus as was described above, controlling operation of the first and/or the second feeding device, and controlling operation of the nozzle.

The method performed by a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit for controlling operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole has the advantage of at least partially automatizing the method as was described above for securing a bolt in a borehole.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to a sixth aspect of the disclosure by a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to carry out the method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole. According to some embodiments herein there is provided a computer program which comprises program code for causing a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit to carry out the method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole.

The computer program product provides all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole and the system for securing a bolt in a borehole.

The above mentioned objects are also achieved according to a seventh aspect of the disclosure by a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to carry out the method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole.

According to some embodiments herein there is provided a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, wherein said computer program comprises program code for causing a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit to carry out the method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole.

The computer-readable storage medium has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the computer program product.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With reference to the appended drawings, below follows a more detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure cited as examples.

In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a mining or construction work rig;

Figure 2 depicts a system for securing a bolt in a borehole in a perspective view;

Figure 3 depicts an apparatus for inserting a grout tube into the borehole in a perspective view; Figure 4 depicts a clamping means in a perspective view;

Figure 5 depicts a cutting means configured to cut the grout tube in a perspective view;

Figure 6 depicts a nozzle configured to inject a grout material into the borehole in a perspective view;

Figure 7 is a block diagram depicting a method of inserting the grout tube into the borehole;

Figure 8 is a block diagram depicting a method of securing the bolt in the borehole;

Figure 9 is a schematic representation depicting the steps of inserting the grout tube into the borehole and bringing the inserted grout tube in sealed contact with the nozzle;

Figure 10 is a block diagram depicting a method for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting the grout tube into the borehole;

Figure 11 is a block diagram depicting a method for controlling operation of the system for securing the bolt in the borehole;

Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating a control unit and connections with the control unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure aims to reduce or even eliminate exposure of personnel to the hazardous work environment during operations for securing a bolt in a borehole. The present disclosure further aims to reduce manual workload without compromising work efficiency or productivity. The present disclosure improves mechanization and automation of the operations for securing a bolt in a borehole by providing a novel, robust and reliable solution which is advantageous over the state of the art.

According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole, wherein the grout tube 7 is adapted for injecting a grout material, the apparatus 11 comprises a cutting means 5 configured to cut the grout tube 7, and a clamping means 10 (Figs. 3 and 4). The clamping means 10 comprises a primary clamping member 1 with a clamping surface 3, a secondary clamping member 2 with a counter clamping surface 4, and a clamping element 50 (Fig. 4). The clamping element 50 is configured to control operation of the secondary clamping member 2 such that the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 can be braced against the grout tube 7 which can be clamped between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4.

A grout tube 7 is used for injecting or pumping a grout material into a borehole in grouting applications. The grout tube 7 may be a tube, hose or pipe made of a material which is flexible enough to bend but still rigid enough to function as a supporting and guiding means for the grout material. The grout tube 7 may be a hollow core bolt which makes the grouting process much more reliable and more efficient. The grout tube 7 may be left inside the borehole when the borehole is fully filled.

A grout material may be cementitious or resin-based. The resin-based grout material may be a polyurea silicate composition obtainable by chemical reactions of a multi-part resin system. The resin-based grout material has the advantages of high reliability, easy handling and short curing time.

The clamping means 10 is adjustable to a stand-by mode, wherein the clamping means 10 is unoccupied. In the stand-by mode, the clamping surface 3 may be in contact with the counter clamping surface 4.

The clamping means 10 is adjustable to an open mode, wherein a pass-through for the grout tube 7 is formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4.

The clamping means 10 is adjustable to an engaged mode, wherein the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 are braced against the grout tube 7 which is clamped between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4.

Operation of the secondary clamping member 2 controlled by the clamping element 50 is able to adjust the mode of the clamping means 10. In some embodiments, operation of the primary clamping member 1 may also contribute to adjusting the mode of the clamping means 10.

In some embodiments, the clamping element 50 may be a linear mechanical actuator that is used to give a unidirectional force through a unidirectional stroke, such as a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the clamping element 50 may be an electrical actuator, such as an electrical solenoid.

In some embodiments as shown in Figs. 2 to 4, the apparatus 11 may further comprise at least one axial guiding means (6), wherein the at least one axial guiding means 6 is configured to direct movements of the secondary clamping member 2 along an axis such that the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 can be braced against the grout tube 7. The at least one axial guiding means 6 may comprise a slide rail which enables movements of the secondary clamping member 2 along the longitudinal axis of the slide rail (Figs. 2 to 4).

The cutting means 5 may comprise a wear part such as a blade 42 configured to cut the grout tube 7 (Fig. 5). Preferably, the wear part is removably fixed to the cutting means 5, which facilitates replacement. The cutting means 5 facilitates individualized on-site cutting of the grout tube 7 to a length tailor-made for each borehole. Thus, the cutting means 5 solves the problem with pre-cut grout tubes having a pre-determined length that is not universally fit for all boreholes.

In some embodiments, the primary clamping member 1 is configured to move along the at least one axial guiding means 6 such that the clamping means 10 is able to move along the at least one axial guiding means 6. Thus, movement of the primary clamping member 1 along the at least one axial guiding means 6 enables movement of the clamping means 10 along the at least one axial guiding means 6 independently of the mode of the clamping means 10. The specific arrangement provides more flexibility to control operation of the clamping means 10.

In some embodiments as shown in Fig. 2, the apparatus 11 further comprises a first actuating means 51 configured to control operation of the primary clamping member 1. The first actuating means 51 is able to control movement of the clamping means 10 along the at least one axial guiding means 6 by controlling operation of the primary clamping member 1. The first actuating means 51 enables mechanized operations of the primary clamping member 1 and the clamping means 10.

In some embodiments, the first actuating means 51 may be a linear mechanical actuator that is used to give a unidirectional force through a unidirectional stroke, such as a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the first actuating means 51 may be an electrical actuator, such as an electrical solenoid.

The primary clamping means 1 may further comprise an attachment 15 configured to connect the primary clamping means 1 to the first actuating means 51 (Figs. 3 and 4). The primary clamping means 1 may be fastened to the first actuating means 51 by means of screw fasteners (Fig. 2).

In some embodiments as shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the apparatus 11 further comprises a guide pipe 8 configured to guide the grout tube 7. The guide pipe 8 facilitates robust and reliable feeding of the grout tube 7 into a borehole. The guide pipe 8 may be a tube, hose or pipe made of a material which is rigid enough to function as a supporting and guiding means for the grout tube 7.

In some embodiments as shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the cutting means 5 is connected to the guide pipe 8. The cutting means 5 may be arranged at an end of the guide pipe 8 in the proximity of the clamping means 10 (Fig. 3), which facilitates cutting of the grout tube 7 by moving the clamping means 10 in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means 6 and over the cutting means 5 (Fig. 2). Thus, the first actuating means 51 is able to regulate cutting of the grout tube 7 by controlling operation of the primary clamping member 1. The step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 may be combined with the step 200 of bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with a nozzle 12 configured to inject a grout material into the borehole (Figs. 7 and 8). The arrangement has the advantage of increasing work efficiency of securing a bolt in a borehole. The arrangement further has the advantage of providing a lean configuration of the apparatus 11.

In some embodiments, the apparatus 11 further comprises a fourth actuating means configured to control operation of the guide pipe 8. An alternative way of cutting the grout tube 7 is by actuating the guide pipe 8. The fourth actuating means provides an independent mechanism of cutting the grout tube 7 by controlling operation of the guide pipe 8. The fourth actuating means also enables mechanized operation of the guide pipe 8.

In some embodiments, the fourth actuating means may be a linear mechanical actuator that is used to give a unidirectional force through a unidirectional stroke, such as a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the fourth actuating means may be an electrical actuator, such as an electrical solenoid. The fourth actuating means has the advantage of providing more flexibility to control the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7.

In some embodiments as shown in Fig. 5, the cutting means 5 comprises a substantially C-shaped frame 41 configured to be fastened on the guide pipe 8, and a substantially C-shaped blade 42 arranged vertically on the substantially C-shaped frame 41. The specific C-shaped configuration of the cutting means 5 is to match the contour of a tubular shaped guide pipe, which facilitates fastening of the cutting means 5 to the guide pipe 8.

The cutting means 5 may further comprise a fastening means 17 configured to fasten the cutting means 5 to the guide pipe 8 by means of screw fasteners (Figs. 2, 3 and 5). The C-shaped blade 42 is made of a material which is tough enough to cut the grout tube 7. In some embodiments, the C-shaped blade 42 is removably fixed to the C- shaped frame 41, which facilitates replacement of a worn-out C-shaped blade 42 with a new C-shaped blade 42.

The cutting means 5 may also be configured in any other shape suitable for the intended use. In some embodiments, the cutting means may be configured in V-shape.

In some embodiments, the apparatus 11 further comprises a second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means 5. Yet another way of cutting the grout tube 7 is by actuating the cutting means 5. The second actuating means provides an independent mechanism of cutting the grout tube 7 by controlling operation of the cutting means 5. The second actuating means also enables mechanized operation of the cutting means 5.

In some embodiments, the second actuating means may be a linear mechanical actuator that is used to give a unidirectional force through a unidirectional stroke, such as a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the second actuating means may be an electrical actuator, such as an electrical solenoid. The second actuating means has the advantage of providing more flexibility to control the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 (Fig. 7).

According to a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a system 30 for securing a bolt in a borehole, the system 30 comprising the apparatus 11 as was described above and a first feeding device configured to shuttle the grout tube 7.

The system 30 according to the present disclosure has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole. The system 30 according to the present disclosure enables mechanized operation of securing a bolt in a borehole. The system 30 according to the present disclosure further enables remote and/or automatic controls of securing a bolt in a borehole.

The first feeding device is configured to shuttle the grout tube by interacting with the grout tube 7. The first feeding device enables mechanized operation of shuttling the grout tube 7. The first feeding device may comprise a number of rollers (9).

In some embodiments, the first feeding device comprises an even number of rollers 9 configured to interact with the grout tube 7. As illustrated in Fig. 9, the first feeding device comprises two or four rollers 9 configured to interact with the grout tube 7. The even number of rollers 9 have the advantage of providing a stable first feeding device which is able to shuttle the grout tub 7 in a precise and robust manner.

The system 30 according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the system 30 further comprises a second feeding device configured to shuttle a bolt.

The second feeding device is configured to shuttle a bolt by interacting with the bolt. Preferably, the bolt is a cable bolt. The second feeding device enables mechanized operation of shuttling the bolt. The second feeding device may comprise a number of rollers 9, preferably an even number of rollers 9. The even number of rollers 9 have the advantage of providing a stable second feeding device which is able to shuttle the bolt in a precise and robust manner.

The system 30 may further comprise a winding member such as a tube reel for supporting and storing the grout tube 7 in a winding manner, and/or a winding member such as a cable reel for supporting and storing the cable bolt in a winding manner. The tube reel or the cable reel allows unwinding of the grout tube 7 or the cable bolt and has the advantage of supplying the grout tube 7 or the cable bolt for a plurality of boreholes thereby increasing work efficiency. The tube reel or the cable reel has further advantages of eliminating the risk of entangling of the grout tube or the cable bolt during a mining operation.

Furthermore, the system 30 may comprise a cutting means configured to cut the cable bolt. The cutting means configured to cut the grout tube 7 or the cable bolt facilitates individualized on-site cutting of the grout tube 7 or the cable bolt to a length tailor-made for each borehole. Thus, the cutting means solves the problem with pre-cut grout tubes or cable bolts having a pre-determined length that is not be universally fit for all boreholes.

The system 30 may further comprise a sensor wheel arranged to monitor the position of the grout tube 7 or the bolt as well as the feeding speed, which ensures that the inserted grout tube 7 or the inserted bolt reaches an operative depth inside a borehole. Thus, the data obtained by the sensor wheel facilitates remote and automatic control of operating the system 30.

In some embodiments as shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the system 30 further comprises a nozzle 12 configured to inject a grout material into the borehole.

It is necessary to bring the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with the nozzle 12 for injecting a grout material into the borehole. The nozzle 12 may have a frustoconical shaped end 23 which is able to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube 7. The nozzle 12 may also be configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube 7 by means of a gasket. Alternatively, the nozzle 12 may comprise an attachment configured to form a sealed contact with the inserted grout tube 7.

In some embodiments as described our patent application SE 1950866-2 and as illustrated in Figs. 2, 3, 6 and 9, the nozzle 12 may be adapted for injecting a multi- component mixture into a rock hole, wherein the mixture is adapted for securing a bolt in the rock hole, the nozzle 12 comprising a first channel 31 adapted to receive a first component of the multi-component mixture, a second channel 32 adapted to receive a second component of the multi-component mixture, and at least one third channel 33 adapted to receive a blocking agent G, wherein the at least one third channel 33 is connected to the first 31 or the second 32 channel such that the blocking agent G can be provided to the first 31 and/or the second 32 channel via the at least one third channel 33, the nozzle 12 further comprising a mixing member adapted to mix the first 31 and the second 32 component prior to injecting the mixture of the first and the second component into the rock hole, the nozzle further comprising an outlet at a first end 23 of the nozzle 12 adapted to inject the mixture of the first and the second component into the rock hole through the grout tube 7. The first component may be component A containing a resin, such as for example methylene diphenyl isocyanate (MDI) or similar. The second component may be component B containing a hardener, such as for example sodium silicate, silicic acid, an alcohol, a polyol or similar, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the first component may be component B and the second component may be component A.

In some embodiments as shown in Fig. 6, the system 30 further comprises a third actuating means 53 configured to control operation of the nozzle 12.

In some embodiments, the third actuating means 53 may be a linear mechanical actuator that is used to give a unidirectional force through a unidirectional stroke, such as a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the third actuating means 53 may be an electrical actuator, such as an electrical solenoid. The third actuating means 53 enables mechanized operation of the nozzle 12 to bring the nozzle 12 in sealed contact with the inserted grout tube 7.

The third actuating means 53 may actuate operation of the nozzle 12 to move along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 12 to bring the nozzle 12 in sealed contact with the inserted grout tube 7. The system 30 may further comprise an outlet 13 adapted for communication with a borehole, wherein the outlet 13 is fixedly arranged in line with the guide pipe 8 (Fig. 2). With “in line” is herein meant essentially concentrically arranged in a straight line.

When the outlet 13 is in line with the guide pipe 8, a passage for the grout tube 7 may be formed between the outlet 13 and the guide pipe 8.

The system 30 may further comprise a maneuvering space 14 with two open ends, wherein the maneuvering space 14 is adapted for communication with the outlet 13 at one end and with the guide pipe 8 at the other end (Fig. 2). Thus, a passage for the grout tube 7 may be formed by the outlet 13, the maneuvering space 14, the guide pipe 8, and the pass-through formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 when the clamping means 10 is in an open mode. When the clamping means 10 moves along the at least one axial guiding means 6 in an engaged mode, the maneuvering space 14 may allow bending of the grout tube 7 which is flexible enough to bend.

The bendability of the grout tube 7 within the maneuvering space 14 enables movements of the clamping means 10 along the at least one axial guiding means 6 in an engaged mode, which facilitate the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 and/or the step 200 of bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with a nozzle 12 configured to inject a grout material into the borehole (Figs. 7 and 8). The bendability of the grout tube 7 within the maneuvering space 14 further has the advantage of providing a compact design of the system 30 according to the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the system 30 for securing a bolt in a borehole may comprise a control unit 16. Alternatively, the system 30 may be connected to a control unit 16. As illustrated in Fig. 12, the control unit 16 may be connected with a sensing system, at least one actuating means, and at least one feeding device via the communication links 1000a, 1000b and 1000c respectively. The control unit 16 comprises at least one processor 1601 , at least one memory 1602 and at least one data port 1603. The at least one processor 1601 is usually an electronic processing circuitry that processes input data and provides appropriate output.

The sensing system is able to detect events or changes in its environment. The sensing system may comprise at least one sensor configured to provide information about proximity, pressure, speed, position and/or displacement. The at least one sensor may be a Hall effect sensor, a capacitive sensor or any other type of sensor suitable for the intended use. The at least one sensor may e.g. be a sensor wheel arranged to monitor the position of the grout tube 7 and/or the bolt as well as the feeding speed, which ensures that the inserted grout tube 7 or the inserted bolt reaches an operative depth inside a borehole. The sensing system is configured to send data to other electronics such as a control unit 16 that controls operation of the apparatus 11 and the system 30 (Fig. 12).

The at least one actuating means may be the clamping element 50 configured to control operation of the secondary clamping member 2, the first actuating means 51 configured to control operation of the primary clamping member 1, the second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means 5, the third actuating means 53 configured to control operation of the nozzle 12, or the fourth actuating means configured to control operation of the guide pipe 8.

In some embodiments, the at least one actuating means may be a linear mechanical actuator that is used to give a unidirectional force through a unidirectional stroke, such as a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the at least one actuating means may be an electrical actuator, such as an electrical solenoid.

The at least one feeding device may be the first feeding device configured to shuttle a grout tube 7, or the second feeding device configured to shuttle a bolt.

According to a third aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a rig 20 for securing a bolt in a borehole, the rig comprising the apparatus 11 as was described above for inserting a grout tube.

The rig 20 may comprise the system 30 as was described above for securing a bolt in a borehole.

The rig 20 has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus 11 or the system 30.

The rig 20 may be a complex equipment intended for earth surface use or underground use. The rig 20 may be a mining or construction work rig adapted for various mining operations or construction work. Fig. 1 shows schematically a mining or construction work rig 20 comprising a carrier 21 , at least one boom 22 and a system 30 for securing a bolt in a borehole. The system 30 is connected to the at least one boom 4 and comprises the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube into the borehole.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of inserting 100 a grout tube 7 into a borehole. Example embodiments of the method will be described in a general way by referring to Figs. 7 and 9 in which the optional method steps are marked with dashed lines. The method comprises the following steps, which steps may be taken in any suitable order.

The method of inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole has all the advantages that have been described above in conjunction with the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole. The method of inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole according to the present disclosure may be at least partially mechanized and/or automatized.

Step 101: adjusting the clamping means 10 to an open mode

The step 101 of adjusting the clamping means 10 to an open mode is performed by the operation of the clamping element 50. When the clamping means 10 is set to an open mode, a pass-through for the grout tube 7 is formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4. The pass-through is wide enough for the grout tube 7 to pass through before entering the borehole.

Step 102: positioning the apparatus 11

The step 102 of positioning the apparatus 11 may comprise one or more sub-steps of aligning the pass-through formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 with a borehole. A precise and swift alignment of the pass-through with a borehole ensures smooth and efficient deliveries into the borehole.

The pass-through may further need to be aligned with the guide pipe 8 and the outlet 13. In some embodiments, the guide pipe 8 is fixedly arranged in line with the outlet 13 such that moving the clamping means 10 in an open mode along the at least one axial guiding means 6 is able to bring the pass-through in line with the guide pipe 8 and the outlet 13 simultaneously. Thus, alignment of the pass-through with the guide pipe 8 and the outlet 13 may be controlled by operation of the first actuating means 51.

Step 103: shuttling the grout tube 7 into the borehole via the pass-through The step 103 of shuttling the grout tube 7 into the borehole via the pass-through formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 is performed by operation of the first feeding device.

In some embodiments, the grout tube 7 may be shuttled consecutively through the guide pipe 8, the pass-through formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 when the clamping means 10 is in an open mode, the maneuvering space 14 and the outlet 13 before entering the borehole.

Step 104: adjusting the clamping means 10 to an engaged mode The step 104 of adjusting the clamping means 10 of the apparatus 11 to an engaged mode is performed by the operation of the clamping element 50. When the clamping means 10 is set to an engaged mode, the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 are braced against the grout tube 7 which is clamped between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4.

Step 105: cutting the grout tube 7

The step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 with the cutting means 5 may be performed by moving the clamping means 10 in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means 6 and over the cutting means 5.

Alternatively, cutting of the grout tube 7 may be achieved by directly actuating the cutting means 5.

Yet another way of cutting the grout tube 7 is by moving the guide pipe 8 if the cutting means 5 is connected to the guide pipe 8.

In some embodiments, the first actuating means 51 configured to control operation of the primary clamping member 1 actuates the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7.

The first actuating means 51 is able to control movement of the clamping means 10 in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means 6 and over the cutting means 5 by controlling operation of the primary clamping member 1. Thus, the method may combine the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 (Fig. 7) with the step 200 of bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with a nozzle 12 configured to inject a grout material into the borehole (Fig. 8). The method is advantageous for increasing work efficiency of securing a bolt in a borehole. The method is also beneficial to a lean design of the apparatus 11 as was described above.

In some embodiments, the second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means 5 actuates the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7.

An alternative way of cutting the grout tube 7 is by directly actuating the cutting means 5. The method provides an independent mechanism of using the secondary actuating means to control operation of the cutting means 5 for cutting the grout tube 7.

Yet another way of cutting the grout tube 7 is by actuating the fourth actuating means configured to control operation of the guide pipe 8 if the cutting means 5 is connected to the guide pipe 8. The alternative methods for cutting the grout tube may be at least partially mechanized and/or automatized.

The step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 with the cutting means 5 facilitates individualized on-site cutting of the grout tube 7 to a length tailor-made for each borehole. Thus, the step 105 of cutting the grout tube 7 with the cutting means 5 solves the problem with pre-cut grout tubes having a pre-determined length that is not universally fit for all boreholes.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of securing a bolt in a borehole. Example embodiments of the method will be described in a general way by referring to Figs. 8 and 9 in which the optional method steps are marked with dashed lines. The method comprises the following steps, which steps may be taken in any suitable order.

Step 100: inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole

The step 100 of inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole comprises the steps 101 to 105 as were described above.

Step 200: bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with a nozzle 12 The step 200 of bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with a nozzle 12 may comprise one or more sub-steps of adjusting the positions of the inserted grout tube 7 and/or the nozzle 12. The nozzle 12 is configured to inject a grout material into the borehole.

The step 200 may comprise the sub-step of moving the clamping means 10 in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means 6 to an injection position, wherein the inserted grout tube 7 is brought in sealed contact with the nozzle 12.

The step 200 may comprise the sub-step of moving the nozzle 12 to the injection position, wherein the inserted grout tube 7 is brought in sealed contact with the nozzle 12.

Thus, a sealed contact between the inserted grout tube 7 and the nozzle 12 may be achieved by orchestrated operations of the first 51 and the third 53 actuating means. The first actuating means 51 is able to control movement of the clamping means 10 in an engaged mode along the at least one axial guiding means 6 by controlling operation of the primary clamping member 1. The third actuating means 53 is able to control movement of the nozzle 12.

Step 300: injecting the grout material into the borehole The step 300 of injecting the grout material into the borehole is performed by the nozzle 12. The grout material may be pumped to the toe of a borehole through the inserted grout tube 7 thereby start filling the borehole from the toe, which ensures that the borehole is filled properly and evenly. Pumping is stopped when the grout appears at the mouth of the borehole.

Step 400: shuttling a bolt into the borehole

The step 400 of shuttling a bolt into the borehole is performed by operation of the second feeding device. The step 400 of shuttling a bolt into the borehole may be optional if the grout tube 7 is a hollow core bolt. In some embodiments, the bolt may be inserted into the borehole before the grouting process.

In some embodiments, the third actuating means 53 configured to control operation of the nozzle 12 actuates the step 200 of bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with the nozzle 12.

The third actuating means 53 may actuate operation of the nozzle 12 to move along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 12 to bring the nozzle 12 in sealed contact with the inserted grout tube 7.

In some embodiments as illustrated in Fig. 9, the method of securing a bolt in a borehole comprises the steps of aligning the outlet 13 with the borehole; adjusting 101 the clamping means 10 of the apparatus 11 to an open mode, wherein a pass-through for the grout tube 7 is formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4; positioning 102 the apparatus 11 such that the pass-through is in line with the outlet 13 and with the borehole; shuttling 103 the grout tube 7 into the borehole via the pass-through formed between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 (Fig. 9a); adjusting 104 the clamping means 10 of the apparatus 11 to an engaged mode, wherein the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 are braced against the grout tube 7 which is clamped between the clamping surface 3 and the counter clamping surface 4 (Fig. 9b); cutting 105 the grout tube 7 with the cutting means 5; shuttling 400 a bolt into the borehole; bringing 200 the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with a nozzle 12 configured to inject a grout material into the borehole (Figs. 9c and 9d); and injecting 300 the grout material into the borehole through the nozzle 12 and the inserted grout tube 7.

The nozzle 12 may be adapted for injecting a multi-component mixture into a rock hole as was described before. Thus, the step 300 of injecting the grout material into the borehole through the nozzle 12 and the inserted grout tube 7 may comprise the sub steps of injecting a multi-component mixture into the borehole by providing a first A and a second B component of the multi-component mixture into the first 31 and the second 32 channel of the nozzle 12 respectively, and providing a blocking agent G into the first 31 and/or the second 32 channel of the nozzle 12.

According to a fifth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method performed by a control unit 16 or a computer connected to the control unit 16 for controlling 1000 operation of the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole. Example embodiments of the method will be described in a general way by referring to Fig. 10 in which the optional method actions are marked with dashed lines. The method comprises the following actions, which actions may be taken in any suitable order.

Action 1001: obtaining data

The action 1001 may comprise one or more sub-actions of obtaining data from a sensing system. The data may provide information about proximity, pressure, speed, position and/or displacement of the clamping means 10, the grout tube 7, the bolt, and/or the nozzle 12.

Action 1002: controlling operation of the clamping means 10

The action 1002 of controlling operation of the clamping means 10 may comprise one or more sub-actions of controlling operation of the clamping element 50 configured to actuate operation of the secondary clamping member 2, and the first actuating means 51 configured to actuate operation of the primary clamping member 1.

Action 1003: controlling operation of the cutting means 5

The action 1003 of controlling operation of the cutting means 5 may comprise one or more sub-actions of controlling operation of the second actuating means configured to actuate operation of the cutting means 5. The action 1003 of controlling operation of the cutting means 5 to cut the grout tube 7 may be optional when the cutting means 5 is connected to the guide pipe 8. The method performed by a control unit 16 or a computer connected to the control unit 16 for controlling 1000 operation of the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube 7 into a borehole may further comprise the action of controlling operation of the guide pipe 8. The action of controlling operation of the guide pipe 8 may comprise one or more sub actions of controlling operation of the fourth actuating means configured to actuate operation of the guide pipe 8.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method performed by a control unit 16 or a computer connected to the control unit 16 for controlling operation of the system 30 for securing a bolt in a borehole. Example embodiments of the method will be described in a general way by referring to Fig. 11 in which the optional method actions are marked with dashed lines. The method comprises the following actions, which actions may be taken in any suitable order.

Action 1000: controlling operation of the apparatus 11

The action 1000 of controlling operation of the apparatus 11 comprises the actions 1001 to 1002 as were described above. The action 1000 of controlling operation of the apparatus 11 may further comprise the action 1003 of controlling operation of the cutting means 5 and/or the action of controlling operation of the guide pipe 8.

Action 2000: controlling operation of the first and/or the second feeding device The action 2000 of controlling operation of the first feeding device regulates shuttling of the grout tube 7. The action 2000 of controlling operation of the second feeding device regulates shuttling of a bolt.

Action 3000: controlling operation of the nozzle 12.

The action 3000 of controlling operation of the nozzle 12 may comprise one or more sub-actions of controlling operation of the third actuating means 53 which is configured to actuate operation of the nozzle 12 to bringing the inserted grout tube 7 in sealed contact with the nozzle 12.

According to a sixth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor 1601 to carry out the method for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole, or the method for controlling operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole.

According to some embodiments herein there is provided a computer program which comprises program code for causing a control unit 16 or a computer connected to the control unit 16 to carry out the method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system 30 for securing a bolt in a borehole.

The computer program comprises routines for controlling 1000 operation of the apparatus 11 for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system 30 for securing a bolt in a borehole. The computer program may comprise routines for obtaining 1001 data from the sensing system. The computer program may further comprise routines for controlling 1002 operation of the clamping means 10, controlling 1003 operation of the cutting means 5, controlling 2000 operation of the feeding devices, and/or controlling 3000 operation of the nozzle 12.

According to a seventh aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to carry out the method for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole, or the method for controlling operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole.

According to some embodiments herein there is provided a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, wherein said computer program comprises program code for causing a control unit or a computer connected to the control unit to carry out the method as was described above for controlling operation of the apparatus for inserting a grout tube into a borehole or operation of the system for securing a bolt in a borehole. The computer-readable storage medium may comprise non-volatile memory (NVM) for storing the computer program.

Although the invention has been described in terms of example embodiments as set forth above, it should be understood that the examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the claims, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. Each feature disclosed or illustrated in the present disclosure may be incorporated in the claims, whether alone or in any appropriate combination with any other feature disclosed or illustrated herein.

Claims (1)

1. An apparatus (11) for inserting a grout tube (7) into a borehole, wherein the grout tube (7) is adapted for injecting a grout material, the apparatus (11) comprises a cutting means (5) configured to cut the grout tube (7), and a clamping means (10) comprising a primary clamping member (1) with a clamping surface (3), a secondary clamping member (2) with a counter clamping surface (4), and a clamping element (50), wherein the clamping element (50) is configured to control operation of the secondary clamping member (2) such that the clamping surface (3) and the counter clamping surface (4) can be braced against the grout tube (7) which can be clamped between the clamping surface (3) and the counter clamping surface (4).

2. The apparatus (11) according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus (11) further comprises at least one axial guiding means (6), and wherein the primary clamping member (1) is configured to move along the at least one axial guiding means

(6) such that the clamping means (10) is able to move along the at least one axial guiding means (6).

3. The apparatus (11) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the apparatus (11) further comprises a first actuating means (51) configured to control operation of the primary clamping member (1).

4. The apparatus (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus (11) further comprises a guide pipe (8) configured to guide the grout tube

(7). 5. The apparatus (11) according to claim 4, wherein the cutting means (5) is connected to the guide pipe (8).

6. The apparatus (11) according to claim 5, wherein the cutting means (5) comprises a substantially C-shaped frame (41) configured to be fastened on the guide pipe (8), and a substantially C-shaped blade (42) arranged vertically on the substantially C-shaped frame (41).

7. The apparatus (11) according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the apparatus (11) further comprises a second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means (5). 8. A system (30) for securing a bolt in a borehole, the system (30) comprising the apparatus (11) according to any one of the preceding claims and a first feeding device configured to shuttle the grout tube (7).

9. The system (30) according to claim 8, wherein the first feeding device comprises an even number of rollers (9) configured to interact with the grout tube (7).

10. The system (30) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the system (30) further comprises a second feeding device configured to shuttle a bolt. 11. The system (30) according to any one of the claims 8 to 10, wherein the system (30) further comprises a nozzle (12) configured to inject a grout material into the borehole.

12. The system (30) according to claim 11, wherein the system (30) further comprises a third actuating means (53) configured to control operation of the nozzle

(12).

13. A rig (20) for securing a bolt in a borehole, the rig comprising the apparatus (11) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7.

14. The rig (20) according to claim 13, wherein the rig comprises the system

(30) according to any one of the claims 8 to 12.

15. A method of inserting (100) a grout tube (7) into a borehole, which method comprising the steps of adjusting (101) the clamping means (10) of the apparatus (11) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7 to an open mode, wherein a pass-through for the grout tube (7) is formed between the clamping surface (3) and the counter clamping surface (4); positioning (102) the apparatus (11) such that the pass-through is in line with the borehole; shuttling (103) the grout tube (7) into the borehole via the pass-through formed between the clamping surface (3) and the counter clamping surface (4); adjusting (104) the clamping means (10) of the apparatus (11) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7 to an engaged mode, wherein the clamping surface (3) and the counter clamping surface (4) are braced against the grout tube (7) which is clamped between the clamping surface (3) and the counter clamping surface (4); and cutting (105) the grout tube (7) with the cutting means (5).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first actuating means (51) configured to control operation of the primary clamping member (1) actuates the step

(105) of cutting the grout tube (7).

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the second actuating means configured to control operation of the cutting means (5) actuates the step (105) of cutting the grout tube (7).

18. A method of securing a bolt in a borehole, which method comprising the steps of inserting (100) a grout tube (7) into the borehole according to any one of the claims 15 to 17; bringing (200) the inserted grout tube (7) in sealed contact with a nozzle (12) configured to inject a grout material into the borehole; injecting (300) the grout material through the nozzle (12) and the inserted grout tube (7) and into the borehole; and shuttling (400) a bolt into the borehole. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the third actuating means (53) configured to control operation of the nozzle (12) actuates the step (200) of bringing the inserted grout tube (7) in sealed contact with the nozzle (12).

20. A method performed by a control unit (16) or a computer connected to the control unit (16) for controlling (1000) operation of the apparatus (11) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7 for inserting a grout tube (7) into a borehole, which method comprising the actions of obtaining (1001) data, and controlling (1002) operation of the clamping means (10).

21. The method according to claim 20, which method further comprising the action of controlling (1003) operation of the cutting means (5). 22. A method performed by a control unit (16) or a computer connected to the control unit (16) for controlling operation of the system (30) according to any one of the claims 8 to 12 for securing a bolt in a borehole, which method comprising the actions of controlling (1000) operation of the apparatus (11) according to claim 20 or 21 , controlling (2000) operation of the first and/or the second feeding device, and controlling (3000) operation of the nozzle (12).

23. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least one processor 1601 , cause the at least one processor 1601 to carry out the method according to any one of the claims 20 to 22.

24. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least one processor 1601, cause the at least one processor 1601 to carry out the method according to any one of the claims 20 to 22.