Sandvik Mining has unveiled its new Sandvik DD423iE – the second machine in its next-generation development drilling offering.
Following the highly anticipated launch of the DD423i diesel counterpart in March, Sandvik has now expanded the range with a battery electric option, combining proven drilling performance with significant advancements in battery-powered productivity.
The new Sandvik DD423iE sets a new benchmark in underground battery-electric drilling, delivering a 50% increase in battery capacity and tramming range, alongside an 80% improvement in battery drilling performance. Tramming speed has also been enhanced by 30%, making it the fastest machine in Sandvik’s underground drilling portfolio.
The DD423iE can deliver more than triple the charging power while drilling, enabling a full 0 to 100% state of charge (SOC) in approximately two hours – less time than required to complete a full drilling round – significantly improving operational efficiency.
In addition to these electrification advances, Sandvik DD423iE retains the performance improvements of its diesel counterpart. These include 34.5% greater drilling coverage, 48% improved cross-cut performance, and the integration of new SB75i booms with double roll-overs. Operator safety and productivity are further enhanced through a 55% increase in visibility, while maintaining more than 95% machine availability in demanding mining conditions. New lightweight covers make serviceability easier with improved accessibility to main components.
Field testing at Agnico Eagle Finland’s Kittilä mine validated these significant performance improvements in real mining conditions. A representative from Agnico Eagle Finland noted the superiority of the DD423iE’s performance versus its predecessors:
“Sandvik DD423iE’s performance and range were quite impressive, especially compared to previous models, and it can also compete with 6-cylinder diesel engines. As a former driller, it was great to see what a huge leap has been made from the DD422iE to this device.”
The high-performance battery system is engineered for demanding underground conditions, utilising three lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to deliver significant performance improvements in battery drilling, tramming, and charging.
Battery safety underground remains paramount and the advanced safety architecture with multiple layers of monitoring and protection ensures safe operation, while the electric drivetrain provides instant torque, improving tramming efficiency and responsiveness.
Simon Morrissey, Product Manager for development drills at Sandvik Mining emphasised how the next generation of Sandvik battery drills builds on the company’s legacy of groundbreaking drilling developments, while being driven by the future needs of the industry:
“The DD423iE combines our industry-leading drilling expertise with the clear benefits of electrification. It allows our customers to maintain high performance while lowering operating costs and supporting their sustainability targets.”