Sandvik DL422iE Longhole Drill Makes Australian Debut

IGO’s Nova Operation in Western Australia, operated by Barminco, has become the first Australian mine to commission a Sandvik DL422iE battery-electric longhole drill, as part of its commitment to cleaner, safer mining.

Sandvik DL422iE is a fully automated, battery-powered top hammer longhole drill designed for underground mass mining in 4-by-4-meter or larger production drifts. It can drill vertical and inclined fans and single or parallel Ø89-127 millimeter longholes up to 54 meters in depth using ST58 and ST68 tube rods. The drill’s electric driveline includes a battery package and electric motor which allow for zero emissions while tramming and also reduced thermal load. Sandvik DL422iE also features Sandvik’s patented Charging While Drilling technology for reduced battery charging time without the need for additional infrastructure.

“At IGO, we believe in a clean energy future, and that extends to our underground mining operations where the electrification of our fleets will create a safer, greener and more productive operation,” said Chris Carr, Head of Technical Services and Acting General Manager Nova at IGO. “The arrival of the new Sandvik drill is an important step towards our commitment to be net zero across our direct operations and projects by 2035, if not sooner.”

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