The Sandvik DD212i is a compact single-boom jumbo featuring a new carrier and updated design, enhancing productivity, drilling accuracy, intelligence, and versatility while ensuring easy integration into operations. Ideal for narrow veins and medium-sized drifts, the DD212i maximizes profitability and operational efficiency through precise electronic positioning and instrumentation for accurate hole measurements.
“Developed for mines seeking compact equipment with superior connectivity and data collection capabilities, the Sandvik DD212i delivers increased productivity and drilling precision, even in challenging operations involving deeper and narrower orebodies,” explained Jean-Christophe Goiffon, Low Profile and Narrow Vein Product Manager at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions.
Key new features of the DD212i include intelligent drilling control, a newly designed narrow vein carrier, the SB20i instrumented boom, Sandvik RDX5 rock drills, and a safer ROPS/FOPS cabin. Its versatility in drilling applications is further enhanced by scalable automation packages that provide a variety of automatic drilling features and maximize data collection.
These advancements lead to improved penetration rates, better advance, and enhanced pull-out results compared to Sandvik’s previous narrow vein offerings. Additionally, the total cost of ownership (TCO) can be reduced due to lower parts and consumables costs. Sandvik is also launching a new module of its Digital Driller™ training simulator for the DD212i, aimed at training and upskilling operators.
“With many regions facing a shortage of skilled labor, our customers are looking for efficient and quick training solutions that include automated functions to boost performance for both new and less experienced operators,” Goiffon noted.
Feedback from operator field testing in Austria highlighted the minimal startup time required due to the user-friendly control panels and display. Operators even compared the drilling performance of the Sandvik DD212i to that of the twin-boom Sandvik DD422i jumbo.
In the coming months, Sandvik plans to introduce additional optional extras for the DD212i, including Gold level automation and a longhole package specifically designed for longhole drilling in narrow vein applications, with a minimum tunnel profile of 2×3 meters.
