In Kharkiv, they continue trial innovative demining machine developed by local engineers. Its cost is four times lower than Western analogues, and its technical characteristics allow to significantly speed up the process of cleaning Kharkiv Oblast, where more than 40% of the territory is contaminated with explosive objects.
The machine is equipped with a powerful engine of 320 horsepower, which ensures stable operation even on difficult areas. Support rollers, hydraulic system and hammer working unit allow effective destruction of mines and projectiles. The working unit in the form of a cutter breaks the soil to a depth of up to 30 centimeters, destroying the explosive even before its detonation. The machine can withstand up to five explosions of anti-tank mines without loss of functionality.
The productivity of the equipment depends on the type of soil and is from 0.25 hectares per hour, and the demining speed is from 0.5 to 1.5 km/h.
The development consumes 55 liters of fuel per hour of operation, and its remote control ensures operator safety. Currently, the control system allows you to control the car at a distance of up to 613 meters, but engineers are working on increasing this distance to 1 kilometer.
The machine meets international standards and has additional functionality. It can perform the functions of a remote-controlled bulldozer or a front-end loader, which is especially important when removing debris from destroyed buildings.
According to Ivan Yalovol, head of development, Western analogues of such machines are produced in limited quantities – only one per year. Kharkiv engineers are able to manufacture up to two such machines every month, which significantly reduces the waiting time and meets current needs.
Oleksiy Kolesnik, director of the development company, notes that the machine was created taking into account the conditions of the Kharkiv region, which was badly affected by the hostilities. This solution not only speeds up demining, but also makes the technique a universal tool for solving humanitarian tasks.
The development of Kharkiv engineers has every chance of becoming a key element in the recovery of the region and the preservation of sappers’ lives.
