Sandvik says it is investing in its surface drilling capabilities by introducing a new production line at its factory in Tampere, Finland.
The move supports the company’s strategic focus on surface drilling and is set to increase production capacity by up to 30% while significantly shortening lead times for customers.
The initiative, which follows Sandvik’s recent establishment of a dedicated surface test area (the Surface Test Pit), represents one of the most significant development projects for surface drilling equipment in recent years, the company claims. It includes a comprehensive redesign of the production facility layout and workflows, modernisation of resource and operational planning and enhanced safety and ergonomics. The revamped facility is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025 and will create approximately 100 new production roles in Tampere.
“This investment not only expands our production capabilities but, more importantly, improves our ability to serve customers faster, more flexibly and with greater predictability,” Mats Eriksson, President of Sandvik Mining, says. “Customers will benefit from shorter lead times and more consistent quality. This investment will also serve as a model for future R&D and continuous development efforts within the business.”
In parallel with the production investment, Sandvik continues to develop its Surface Test Pit.
Announced in November 2023 and located approximately 40 km from Tampere, the dedicated site enables real-world testing, development and customer demonstrations for both surface boom and rotary drill rigs, particularly in support of automated, electrified and digital technologies. In addition to R&D, the test area will also host customer events and training programs.
The area, which previously served as a quarry, is being developed by its own drilling plan and will include the construction of permanent office buildings and dedicated customer facilities.
The combined investment in the new production line and test area is approximately €2 million ($2.3 million), Sandvik says.
“Real-world testing is essential when developing new technologies,” Eriksson said. “Our Surface Test Pit helps shorten time to market and ensures we deliver safe, productive and reliable equipment that meets our customers’ evolving needs.”
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