Earlier this year Redpath Mining secured an order with Lubambe Copper Mine in Zambia to complete approximately 10km of underground development per year over the next 5 years. In securing this order, Redpath Mining has partnered with high technology engineering company, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology.

Sandvik will supply Redpath with four DD321 development drill rigs, three LH517i loaders and three TH545i trucks. “Given the focus within industry moving forward on safety and digitalization, Sandvik’s iSeries of intelligent equipment was amongst the chosen equipment”, says Praveen Pinisetti, Key Customer & Applications Manager, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology Central Africa. “This, together with the double boom (two booms) drilling capabilities of Sandvik DD321, creates a winning formula for Lubambe.”

Sandvik will provide onsite parts consignment stock and technical support technicians to ensure optimal running of all equipment.

The Sandvik DD321 is a two-boom, electro-hydraulic mining development drill rig engineered to excel in demanding conditions and multiple applications, but most commonly face drilling, cross-cut drilling and bolt-hole drilling. Well-designed structures and proven components ensure a reliable workplace for operators and maintenance crews.

Sandvik’s intelligent loaders feature the latest improvements in operator and maintenance ergonomics. The existing high level of safety has been further enhanced, together with increased productivity and profitability improvements to balance the machine and bucket size making bucket filling easier and reducing tire wear.

Sandvik’s LH517i has integrated intelligence in the form of the Sandvik Intelligent Control system, My Sandvik Digital Services Knowledge Box™ on-board hardware and automation readiness. Other available options include Integrated Weighing System and AutoMine® Loading Onboard Package.

The Sandvik TH545i is a high performance 45 tonne articulated underground dump truck, with performance based on proven design, high engine power and high payload related to own weight. This robust and intelligent truck delivers safety, productivity and profitability benefits. Safety, health and comfort are enhanced with an enclosed, vibration-isolated cabin. An optional EU Stage IV / EPA Tier 4f low emission engine further helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing productivity.

Sandvik’s TH545i features a wide range of integrated technology, such as Sandvik Intelligent Control System, My Sandvik Digital Services and automation compatibility as standard, supplemented with an Onboard Weighing System option for tracking the payload. With the addition of the AutoMine® Trucking Onboard option, Sandvik TH545i trucks enable autonomous haulage for both transfer level and decline ramp applications.

Sudesh Deonarain, General Manager Engineering at Redpath, says Sandvik’s hands-on account management support, coupled with superior aftermarket support, were the deciding factors when selecting Sandvik as its equipment and solutions partner. “We are more than happy with the service and support received from Sandvik and look forward to a successful partnership”.