Element Six and Master Drilling Launch Tunnelling Tech

Element Six and Master Drilling have announced a global partnership focused on a new diamond-enabled tunnelling technology, which they say offers increased development speed, lower costs, and reduced environmental impact compared to conventional methods. According to the companies, the solution integrates Element Six’s patented synthetic diamond cutting tools with Master Drilling’s mechanised rock excavation systems, resulting in a reported 17% reduction in waste rock generation.

The technology has undergone testing under both surface and underground conditions in the UK and South Africa, with reported improvements in performance across mining and infrastructure applications. The companies state that the innovation addresses a range of tunnelling challenges, from geological variability to environmental pressures, with potential benefits for sectors including mining, energy, transportation, and construction.

“This strategic partnership with Master Drilling is another example of the role Element Six plays in De Beers Group’s Origins strategy. Synthetic diamond innovation holds immense potential to shape the future of industrial applications. By extracting a lower amount of rock during tunnel development, the solution we developed in partnership with Master Drilling will significantly reduce waste and environmental impact, ensuring a better tomorrow for generations to come.” said Siobhán Duffy, CEO of Element Six.

For more information