MPI introduces the Block Splitter, a revolutionary way to safely and quickly split concrete block for mine ventilation stoppings and other construction projects.   The Block Splitter eliminates the need for hammers, chisels, picks and axes when cutting solid concrete block underground.  The block is placed between the blade and table base, the blade is manually lowered on to the block and the handle is pressed down.   The block is split safely and straight. In addition to its safety benefits, the Block Splitter also speeds up production. The older way of cutting block with a hammer and chisel takes time measuring, scoring and cutting the block.  Often times, the block does not split as intended. The Block Splitter allows users to create a uniform edge on every block placed in it, eliminating waste and speeding the splitting time. The Block Splitter is completely self sufficient, operates manually, weighs 126 lbs. and accommodates up to18 inch solid block.  It is easily transportable within the mine.  The Block Splitter is an economical solution to assist mines with their safety initiative while increasing production.  Please view our video of the Block Splitter in action at www.mpiinc.info/blocksplitter

MPI is an international distributor and service group for specialty mining and  tunneling equipment, serving North and South America. For more information or

to schedule a demonstration at your location please call 412-664-7788 ext 40, e-mail sales@mpiinc.info or visit www.mpiinc.info   

Mine Site Technologies’ integrated communication cap lamp, ICCL with a Koehler headpiece, has been approved for underground use by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), featuring optional communication devices, including a PED pager to receiver text messages from a through-the-earth PED transmission system.  The ICCL can be used with Koehler’s Mark V headpiece, which requires only minor electrical modifications.  Contact Chuck Edwards, CSE Corporation, Tel: 412/856 9200, or visit www.minesitetech.com.

Kraft Power offers SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE with the special patented KX fluid coupling uses a unique fuse plus system.  When the coupling is subject to an extended  overload, the fuse plug system dumps the oil into an internal tank. This prevents the oil from entering the environment and allows for a  fast reset and eliminates clean ups. Call Kraft Power to learn more: 800/394-0078, or visit www.kraftopower.com

RUD-Erlau, Aalen, Germany, has delivered and installed two full sets of the world’s largest TPCs (tire protection chain), called the R75S Plus, in Europe and the U.S.  In Europe, the R75S Plus is protecting all four 52/80-57 tires on a CAT 994 loading limestone.  The other machine to be shod with R 75S Plus is a giant LeTourneau 1850 working iron ore in North America.   Contact Paul Erlanger at goldmine@cix.co.uk

Powers Fasteners, Inc., Brewster, NY, introduces the new SNAKE+ overhead anchor designed to speed installation of threaded rods and is one of the industry’s first mechanical anchors to meet the new more stringent International Building Code (IBC) for strength design.  Eliminates the time-consuming steps of banging in a drop-in and then using a special tool to set the expansion mechanism.  Contact Michael Isser at 516/781-0180.

Metso Minerals, Tampere, Finland, introduces The Nordberg C96 and the compact C116, the newest in Metso’s range of jaw crushers, with a potential throughput of over 400 tph of rock, basalt or rock-based rubble.  Mounted on tracked chassis the Lokotrack versions of the Nordberg crushers are designated LT106 and LT 116, respectively. And provided with easily demountable flatbed screening modules.  Call +358 204 84 142.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Ecublens, Switzerland, has launched its Thermo Scientific ARL OPTIM’X with SLMS-Omega automation, featuring fully automated sample preparation and analysis.  Fast and precise analysis in metals, mining, minerals and cement applications.   Control samples are regularly analyzed and processed by statistical evaluation techniques to detect eventual anomalies.  Automatic standardization is triggered by the system when necessary. Thermo Fisher also announces the launch of its iCE 3000 Series of Atomic Absorption Spectrometers, designed to facilitate prolonged and trouble-free operation.   Call +1 800 532-4752.

FLEXCO, Downers Grove, IL, introduces the BR6 Rivet Hinged Fastening System, offering faster and easier solutions to belt tensions and pulley diameters that could not be handled by the BR10.  BR6 is ideal for troughed belts with 20 degree and 35 degree troughing idlers.  BR6 can handle tensions from 330 to 400 PIW and conveyor systems with pulleys as small as 14 inches and operating tensions at 75 to 100% of tension ratings. Requires only six rivets per fastener and can be purchased in full width strips of 24, 30, 36 and 42 inches.  An alternative to vulcanized applications and straight warped belting. Installation is faster and easier with the aluminum MBRT tool, saving from 30 to 50 minutes per splice.  Fasteners can be applied with a variety of installation tools including hand installation and power installation with the Hitachi Power Tool.  Call 630/971-0150

Bucyrus International Inc., S. Milwaukee, WI, announces that its Belt Division has a contract with Bowie Resources to supply Bowie with a panel belt conveyor system consisting of a 54” Quad 400 HP Variable Frequency Drive Main terminal group with two 54” Dual 400 HP VFD Tripper terminal groups.  As part of the longwall rapid retreat/advance panel belt system Bucyrus will supply a 700’ belt storage unit, which includes a 250 HP, all electric AC VFD winch.  Call Guido Schawohl at +49 (0) 709 2306 709-1183.

Micromine, Perth, Western Australia, introduces its Pit Optimiser as high in usability and performance.  The module in Micromine is an ultimate pit shell and pit sequencing optimiser.  Using the Lerchs-Grossman algorithm, it calculates a subset of blocks that yields a feasible pit with the greatest value.  It does this for a given geological model under a given set of pit slope constraints, mining and processing cost, metallurgical recovery and selling price parameters.  Contact Ben Vorster at +61 8 9423 9015.

Xtrata’s Beltana Highwall Mine in the Hunter Valley region has signed a contract with Joy Mining Machinery for the supply of a new 405m “wide face” longwall system that will extract low ash thermal and semi-soft coal from the Blakefield South Mine.  The project will recover approximately 80 million tons of coal.  The new longwall will utilize approximately 200 off 2.0m wide 1,270-ton (yield load) powered roof supports fitted with the RS20s control system.  The armored face conveyor’s (2 sets) set a new world benchmark for installed power – a 400kW crusher, 600kW 1550mm wide BSL, and 2x1600kW 1100mm AFC.  The JOY 7LS6 shearer has 1000kW rated ranging arms, 860kW cutter motors, 150kW mega drive haulage, and a FACEBOSS automation system with an integrated Landmark Inertial Navigation System.  Call Brad Neilson at +612 4860 3806 (Mossvale, Australia).

Magid Glove & Safety Manufacturing Company LLC, Chicago, IL, has received ISO 9001:2000 recertification for quality management at its Chicago office.  This is the second ISO 9001:2000 recertification earned by Magid Glove, covering design, manufacture, import and distribution of work gloves, protective clothing and safety equipment.  Call Andres Maldonado at 800/444-8010 x 385.

Glacier Computer, New Milford, CT, announces a heated touch screen for its Everest line of vehicle computers.  The Glacier Everest comes with either a 10.4 or 12.1” color LCD and touch screen. Utilizes Intel processors, industrial hard drives, integrated 802.11 wirelesses, and multiple I/O for the connection to an array of peripherals. Solid-state hard drives offer protection against shock, vibration, and temperature extremes.  Call John Geary at 603/882-1560 x 212.

Cummins Inc. announces that the heavy-duty QSX engine will be available with a fully integrated air intake to exhaust after-treatment system to meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Interim and European Stage 111B off-highway emissions regulations in January 2011.  Tier 4 OSX increases displacement to 16 liters and incorporates the XPI High Pressure Common Rail fuel system to enhance power output and engine response.  Very low emissions. Call Kevan Browne at 812/377-9441.

Chevron Products Company, San Ramon, CA, introduces the Delo Heavy Duty EP Greases, ideal for on-and-off highway construction and maintenance vehicles as well as a wide variety of off-road applications including construction, surface and underground mining. Greases display outstanding water washout and spray-off resistance properties in wet, off-road environments and offer excellent shock load extreme pressure protection.  Ideal for use with pins and bushings on buckets, loaders, shovels and continuous miner, shaker screens, crushers, and conveyors.  Visit www.chevron.com

Koch Knight LLC, Canton, OH, offers its Pyroflex sheet membrane system for autoclaves in hydrometallurgy applications.  Engineered for maximum durability and lasting pliability in demanding environments of autoclave service.  Resists inorganic alkaline, such as caustic soda and salts, and is not affected by reducing agents.  Quick to repair.  Call 330/488-1651.

AER Control Systems LLC, New Haven, CT, introduces two new modular dust control models: the Power Booth Module PBM-4 which has four vertically oriented cartridge filters rated at 98% efficiency and the PBM-6 which has six cartridge filters. Both models designed to provide efficient and cost-effective control of heavy dust and fumes.  Units meet or exceed OSHA requirements and include pulse jet filter cleaning.  Call John Dixon at 866/265-2372.

DRS Tactical Systems, Inc., Parsippany, NJ, introduces the ARMOR Convertible Notebook and the ARMOR Tablet PC, a new line of rugged mobile computers that offer data protection technology; anywhere connectivity and sunlight readable display options. Notebook features a die-cast magnesium alloy case and a 12.1-inch outdoor-viewable touch screen display. Tablet features a DuraCase chassis with ShutOut sealing technology that meets IP 66 level protection from dust, dirt, water and temperature extremes.  Call Bill Graulty at 860/679-9761.

Kobelco Construction Machinery America, Carol Stream, IL, introduces the SK295LC ACERA Mark 8, a redesigned full-size excavator that features a Tier III-certified FPT turbocharged engine.  The Kobelco Power Boost system offers 10 percent more bucket breakout force on command, while the Intelligent Total Control System recognizes the operator’s moves, providing progressive power where and when it’s needed.  Comes standard with a longer X-frame for increased stability and a heavy-duty boom and arm.  Call Jada Cash at 312/970-5897.

Yokohama Tire Corporation, Fullerton, CA, introduces four new sizes for its off-the-road tire models. The RT 41 now offers 29.5R25 and 23.5R25 sizes. The RB31 now offers 26.5R25 and 29.5R25.  Both tires feature flexible OTR belt wire and four layers of steel belts. Features include a new tread compound that provides outstanding wear and cut resistance; high turn-up carcass construction and buttress side protection; a unique nylon cord to provide inner liner protection and a longer casing life; and a convex belt-concave carcass line.  Call Mike Shaw at 310/224-4948.

Simrit, Plymouth, MI, introduces the HDP 330 High-Pressure Piston Seal, a two-part seal set consisting of a polyamide slide ring for sealing and an elastomeric energizing element for producing pre-load.  Designed to withstand extreme pressure (up to 800 bar) without extruding. Complements Simrit’s Merkel piston seal program.  Call Adriana Ferrari at 248/269-1122.

TorcUP, Easton, PA, introduces the Raptor, designed to accommodate torque needs from 120 ft/lbs to 6,000 ft/lbs. Provides continuous and repeatable torque with an accuracy of +/- 5%.  Light and fast.  Ideal for any pneumatic wrench need.  Ranges in five sizes from the RP-500 to the RP-6000.  Patented gear technology creates greater durability, lower operational temperatures and increased efficiency.  Visit www.torcup.com

Inpro/Seal Company, Rick Island, IL, announces that its Air Mizer, a shaft sealing system, has been awarded the Product of the Year award from Plant Engineering magazine.  Designed specifically for use in powder and bulk process applications, the system provides a positive seal and eliminates the need for continual maintenance.  For more info and/or a free brochure on the Articulating Air Mizer call Jason Putman at 800/447-0524.

Atlas Copco, Antwerp, Belgium, introduces the GA range of oil-injected compressors, designed for high levels of reliability and energy efficiency.  Features include use of radial fans with VSD regulation, high-efficiency motors and no-loss drains.  Energy efficiency is achieved through state-of-the-art compression elements on Copco’s patented asymmetric rotor profiles, which reduce volumetric losses.  Visit http://www.airforwinners.com

Erosion Control Implements, LLC, Birmingham, AL, introduces the Enfencer Silt Fence Machine, capable of installing both support wire and silt fence fabric into the ground at the same time without trenching.  The new technology meets the Federal Highway Administration FB-03, Silt Fence Specification.  Uniquely equipped to prevent installation failure or “blow-out” underneath silt fences.  Product’s chisel point and slicing blade cut through small roots and eliminates the need for trenching.  Capable of handling any width of fabric or hog wire.  Call Gary Norwood at 205/433-1075.

Thayer Scale, Pembroke, MA, introduces the MWF-OS Sanitary Open Construction Weigh Belt Feeder.  The MWF-OS can provide either a “closed loop” gravimetric control of material feed rate or an “open loop” control for precise convey rate output and totalization of an uncontrolled or intermittent material supply.  Call Thomas Picone at 781/826-8101.

High Voltage, Inc., Copake, NY, introduces the model DTS-60A to its line of semi-automatic 60 KV and 100 DV portable oil testers.  Its rating is 0-60 kV AC @800 VA.  The fully automatic DTS-60A oil test set is used for testing voltage breakdown levels of insulating oils used in electrical apparatus.  Clear and easy to use controls.  Call 518/329-3275.

Rel-Tek Corp., Monroeville, PA, introduces BlueBaby – Integrated barrier systems.  Easily adapts to MSHA-classified RED (fresh air) outstations to BLUE (hazardous) status by providing the essential MSHA-classified barriers.  Monitor gob areas and return airways for CH4, CO, O2, smoke, pressure and air velocity.  Twelve BB Models available for handling 3,7,11 or 15 classified IS sensors in return air.  PCB ratings for 600V or 3,000V.  No need to alter existing RED outstation wiring.  Signal paths are low-leakage, passing 4-20ma or voltage signals to existing read-outs: copper continuous.  Dual-channel IS barriers are short-circuit protected.  Signal amplifiers are available for PLC interfacing.  OSHA barrier systems available. Call 800/783-9228 or e-mail at sales@rel-tek.com

CS Unitec introduces the ECO-50 TAK Portable Magnetic Drill, weighing only 29 pounds and easily portable to work sites.  Has a powerful high-density dual-coil magnet with a holding strength of 3,740 pounds.  A 10.5 Amp motor and two gears with variable speed (100-250 RPM and 180-580 RPM) allow drilling of holes up to 2” diameter with Annular Cutters.  Ideal for tapping and reaming.  Equipment includes carrying case, safety chain, carabin hook, Quick-Lock cutter arbor and allen keys.  Call Kim Dye at 860/267-6651.

Allmand Bros. Inc., Holdrege, NB, introduces the SHO-HD lighting system, designed to deliver brighter and whiter light for enhanced visibility and greater coverage of jobsites.  Features 1,250-watt lamps and ballasts and produces 150,000 lumens per lamp, a 36 percent increase over the standard lamps.  Lights up to 45 percent more surface area.  Call 800/562-1373.

Texas Refinery Corp. Ft Worth, TX, announces 880 Crown and Chassis grease is now available in Aerosol.   Provides EP protection, validated by its 100 lb. Timken OK load rating.  Extreme Pressure Aerosol grease provides maximum lubrication and protection even under loads and extreme shock conditions.  Resists water wash out. Easy and convenient to use.  Within minutes after spraying, the grease is set up and is ready to use.  User-friendly “spray-any-way” valve allows applications from any and all angles.  Call 800/827-0711.