SRG Global takes delivery of world-first Sandvik Leopard DI650i Gen2 drill
The world’s first Sandvik Leopard DI650i Gen2 down-the-hole drill rig off the production line is being used by drill-and-blast contractor SRG Global to great effect, the OEM says.
This rig also provides reverse-circulation capability with increased hole-diameter capacity for all-round performance, Sandvik added.
SRG Global accepted delivery of this milestone rig in Western Australia, in early May. Following a two-week commissioning process, the new rig has now entered service in the Western Australian Goldfields where SRG Global provide drill-and-blast and grade control drilling services for Northern Star Resources.
With the factory fitted RC option to enable its use in grade control plus a host of upgrades compared with its predecessor, the DI650i Gen2 will join SRG Global’s already extensive Sandvik fleet, and will ultimately be used across operations nationwide, according to Sandvik.
“We have a long association with Sandvik and we’re expecting big things from the Gen2,” Nathan Steiner, Executive General Manager for Mining Services at SRG Global, says. “As well as blasthole drilling, we will be using the new rig to undertake grade control services for customers, enabling them to ensure orebody grade and boundaries are accurately mapped. Being able to now offer grade control via our standardised fleet of Sandvik drills is a significant step forward for the business.”
Michael Forrest, Sales Manager for Surface Drills at Sandvik, adds, “The Leopard DI650i has proven to be one of Sandvik’s most successful surface drill introductions. Since its launch in 2019, we’ve focused on evolving the product through continuous customer feedback and market insights. The Gen2 version builds on this legacy, bringing even greater levels of performance, reliability and flexibility to surface drilling operations.”
The Leopard DI650i Gen2 was launched at MINExpo 2024 in Las Vegas using the slogan ‘Evolved to conquer’. It represents a step-up from the first generation of the same drill in several ways, according to Sandvik. For one, while the first generation was capable of drilling holes with diameters from 115 to 203 mm, the Gen2 extends that range to 115 to 229 mm. Another benefit is increased availability and uptime. While the first generation required engine oil servicing after 250 hours, the Gen2 has the ability to stretch the engine oil servicing time to 500 hours.
The Leopard DI650i Gen2 also features a new MicroFeed system for increased accuracy in feed control, often eliminating the need for a floating sub between the drill string and the rotary head when drilling deep holes, the company says. The rig includes a new breakout table to eliminate dirt accumulation problems for easier pipe changes and better serviceability. And it simplifies maintenance with an updated powerpack and extends service intervals in extreme conditions thanks to more robust FRG air intake filters.
SRG Global operates a mix rig fleet dominated by Sandvik products. The new Leopard DI650i Gen2 joins several first generation Leopard DI650i rigs as well as Pantera
DP1500is. As the first Gen2 in commercial operation anywhere in the world, the new drill will be closely monitored by Sandvik and the data collected used to enhance future products.
Steiner added: “We’re extremely pleased that Sandvik is continually considering the challenges that drill-and-blast operators face and finding new solutions that improve efficiency, productivity and safety.”
Forrest concluded: “Our technology advancements are driven by collaborative partnerships with our customers. By working alongside our customers, like SRG Global, to test our technology in real mine environments and our new surface drilling test pit in Finland, we can develop fit for purpose solutions that not only meet their specific needs and address existing industry challenges but are known and proven to perform.”
The post SRG Global takes delivery of world-first Sandvik Leopard DI650i Gen2 drill appeared first on International Mining.