Sandvik introduces AutoMine for underground drills

Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions has introduced AutoMine for underground drills, becoming the first original equipment manufacturer to introduce a unified traffic management system for drills, loaders and trucks.

AutoMine for underground drills is a cutting-edge tele-remote solution that enables operators to remotely and simultaneously control and supervise multiple automated Sandvik underground drills, increase efficiency, productivity and safety.

It includes ring-to-ring tramming capabilities, allowing seamless control and coordination of drills, loaders and trucks operating in the same area with sophisticated traffic management.

This new offering is available for Sandvik longhole drills i-series machines with three levels of tele-remote operations available, including single drill, drill fleet and machine fleet. Operators also have the flexibility to choose between operating from an AutoMine chair or console station.

Sandvik product line manager, underground drills Jouni Koppanen says this system will set a new standard for underground mining operations.

“Sandvik’s holistic approach to integrate drills, loaders and trucks into the AutoMine system will set a new standard for underground mining efficiency,” he said.

“AutoMine for underground drills is another milestone in our commitment to revolutionising our customers’ mining operations.

“This tele-remote system redefines underground drilling autonomy and safety standards.”

Prioritising safety, AutoMine incorporates an enhanced access protector system designed to prevent personnel from entering the machine area while the system is in use.

Additionally, it also features an advanced traffic management system that enables operators to easily control the flow of multi-machine operations as well as handle complex situations.

Sandvik product manager, longhole production drilling Sami Anttila commented on the solution.

“We have developed this system to offer our customers a deeper integration and cooperation in between the underground drills, the loading and hauling machines and especially the AutoMine environment,” he said.

“This means added value through improvements in machine and fleet flexible utilisation in remote operation.”