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Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, a division of the Sandvik Group, has expanded its product line to include electric versions of its next-generation intelligent rotary blasthole drills.
The Sandvik models DR410iE, DR411iE, DR412iE, DR413iE and DR416iE offer an intelligent electric rotary range that can handle hole diameters from 152mm to 406mm.
The iE-series drill rigs are built on the same modular platform as Sandvik's diesel-powered rotary rigs but are enhanced with the environmental benefits of electrification.
These electric-powered rigs are designed to meet the demands of high-altitude applications and feature “robust” electric power groups.
Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions Rotary Drills product manager Nellaiappan Subbiah said: “Sandvik iE-series drill rigs use the same modular platform as our diesel-powered rotary rigs but with the added environmental benefits of electrification.
“We now also offer customers the ability to convert a diesel-powered unit to a fully electrified version in the field. These innovative drills deliver superior performance, reliability and sustainability in the most demanding mining conditions.”
Sandvik's electric drill rigs are equipped with a “sophisticated” electric system that includes a soft starter, which helps to mitigate the impact on the mine's power grid and prevent disruptions to other equipment.
The flexible electric motors support multi-voltage and multi-frequency operations. Additionally, optional cable reels are available to ensure sufficient capacity for connecting to the mine substation.
Operators familiar with Sandvik's equipment will find the DRi control system intuitive and consistent across all i-series rotary drills, simplifying the training process, claims the company.
The iE drills come with a heavy-duty feed system for drilling in hard rock formations. This system, powered by either a hydraulic motor or cylinder-driven chain, delivers increased pulldown force and weight on the bit, resulting in faster penetration rates.
"Sandvik iE-series drill rigs represent a significant leap forward in electric blasthole drill technology and provide rotary drilling customers a seamless transition option from diesel to electric," Subbiah added.
The company, in partnership with Boliden’s Kevitsa mine, tested a battery-electric surface drill rig at the mine in Sodankylä, northern Finland, in September 2024. The test aimed to gather real-world data on the rig’s performance and operational capabilities.
"Sandvik launches electric version of intelligent rotary blasthole drills range" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.