Roof Bolters, Mining

Mining companies are beginning to add smart features to roof-bolting machines, but full automation is still mostly in testing. For example, researchers have built a robotic roof-bolter that can drill and install an entire roof support by itself ^{[1] [2]}. Projects like this remove the worker from danger: one report notes that using robots “may help eliminate injuries from roof falls” ^[2].

In practice today, modern bolter rigs include more sensors and may be run from a distance, allowing operators to stay away from loose rocks. However, many steps still need a person. Industry experts say roughly half of mining operations remain mostly manual ^[3].

Tasks like testing bolt tension or positioning support jacks usually rely on a trained miner’s judgment. Indeed, U.S. data show only about 2,000 roof-bolting jobs exist today ^[4], meaning the occupation is small and each experienced worker’s role is important. In short, current AI tools tend to augment roof bolters (helping with data or remote control) rather than fully replacing them.

There are strong reasons to try AI in roof bolting – mainly safety and efficiency. Taking humans out of dangerous work zones could cut accidents dramatically ^[2]. In mining operations that do use AI and automation, studies report big gains – for example, 75% fewer breakdowns and faster decision-making ^[3].

Also, roof bolters earn about \$33/hour on average (around \$66K/year) ^[4], so the high pay suggests there is room to save costs by using machines over time. On the other hand, adoption has been slow. Automated bolters are expensive and must be customized for each mine’s conditions.

Experts note many companies still buy new gear based on price and rush it into service without much testing ^{[3] [3]}. Every mine is unique, so a one-size-fits-all robot is hard to make ^[3]. For now this means most mines use technology to help human bolters, not replace them outright.

In summary, AI can make bolting safer and faster, but it’s used as a tool under human supervision. Roof bolters’ skills in safety, troubleshooting, and adapting to changing rock conditions remain very valuable ^{[2] [3]}, so these workers are not replaced but may shift toward operating and managing the new machines.