Sandvik Supplies Autonomous Surface Drilling Technology To Boliden

Boliden has selected Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions to supply two Leopard™ DI650i down-the-hole (DTH) drill rigs and AutoMine® Surface Drilling systems, enabling fully autonomous surface drilling at its Kevitsa multi-metal mine in northern Finland. Delivery of the two Leopard™ DI650i drill rigs is scheduled during Q3 2023.

“Boliden Kevitsa is committed to improving sustainability, productivity and safety by investing in the latest automated technologies,” said Christian Bjorne, Vice President Sales Area Northern Europe at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions. “We look forward to continuing our technology cooperation and supporting Kevitsa in its journey to becoming an even more safe and productive mine through our drilling solutions.”

Kevitsa will run the two Leopard™ DI650i DTH rigs using the AutoMine® system from a remote control station near the drilling area or from mine control room. Boliden and Sandvik have an ongoing rock tools agreement at Kevitsa, including DTH hammers, bits, pipes and rock tools services. Sandvik on-site technicians will ensure support is available 365 days a year, maximizing the drill rigs’ utilization, productivity and reliability.

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