Sandvik accelerates mining’s digital future

Sandvik has launched DataDrive’31, a major new technology program aimed at advancing digitalisation through data-driven innovation across the mining industry.

DataDrive’31 focuses on developing new data-driven technologies and solutions that enhance productivity and safety and sustainability across the entire mining value chain.

The program aims to enable new services and products through data utilisation and commercialisation, integrate data-driven technologies into equipment, operations and aftermarket services to deliver end-to-end digital solutions and build predictive and prescriptive operating environments to support smarter, safer and more sustainable mining.

The six-year program has a total budget of $144m [EUR€80m] including $28m [EUR€16m] in research and development (R&D) funding from Business Finland for the first three-year phase, with the option to grant an additional $28m [EUR€16m] for the next phase.

The remaining funding represents a significant direct investment by Sandvik, underlining a long-term commitment to technological development and accelerating digitalisation.  A mid-term review will be conducted after three years to evaluate progress before proceeding to the second phase.

Sandvik mining president Mats Eriksson says DataDrive’31 is at the forefront of the technological transformation of the mining industry.

“Business Finland’s support accelerates our planned R&D work in key technology areas and strengthens our competitiveness in global markets.

“The strong technological expertise of Sandvik in Finland forms the foundation for this investment,” he said.

“DataDrive’31 is a key driver for the growth of our mining business and demonstrates our commitment to leading the industry’s data-driven future.”

DataDrive’31 builds on this legacy, ensuring Sandvik continues to lead the technological transformation of the mining industry and deliver future-ready solutions for customers worldwide, maintaining long-term innovation leadership.