The first second generation (Gen2) Leopard DI650i off the production line provides reverse-circulation (RC) capability with increased hole-diameter capacity for all-round performance.
Leading Australian drill-and-blast contractor SRG Global has begun putting Sandvik’s newest down-the-hole drill rig to use across its operations, with highly encouraging results.
SRG Global accepted delivery of the world’s first Sandvik LeopardTM DI650i Gen2 surface drill in Western Australia in early May.
Following a two-week commissioning process, the new rig has now entered service in the WA Goldfields where SRG Global provide drill-and-blast and grade control drilling services for Northern Star Resources.
With the factory fitted reverse circulation option to enable its use in grade control plus a host of upgrades compared to its predecessor, the DI650i Gen2 will join SRG Global’s already extensive Sandvik fleet and will ultimately be used across operations nationwide.
“We have a long association with Sandvik and we’re expecting big things from the Gen2,” SRG Global executive general manager for mining services Nathan Steiner said.
“As well as blast hole drilling, we will be using the new rig to undertake grade control services for customers, enabling them to ensure ore body grade and boundaries are accurately mapped. Being able to now offer grade control via our standardised fleet of Sandvik drills is a significant step forward for the business.”
Sandvik sales manager for surface drills Michael Forrest said the Leopard DI650i has proven to be one of the company’s most successful surface drill introductions.
“Since its launch in 2019, we’ve focused on evolving the product through continuous customer feedback and market insights,” Forrest said.
“The Gen2 version builds on this legacy, bringing even greater levels of performance, reliability, and flexibility to surface drilling operations.”
Evolved to conquer
The Leopard DI650i Gen2 was launched at MINExpo in Las Vegas in late 2024 using the slogan “Evolved to conquer”.
It represents a step-up from the first generation of the same drill in several ways. For one, while the first gen was capable of drilling holes with diameters from 115 to 203mm, the Gen2 extends that range to 115 to 229mm.
Another benefit is increased availability and uptime. While the first generation required engine oil servicing after 250 hours, the Gen2 has the ability to stretch the engine oil servicing time to 500 hours.
The Leopard DI650i Gen2 also features a new microfeed system for increased accuracy in feed control, often eliminating the need for a floating sub between the drill string and the rotary head when drilling deep holes.
The rig includes a new breakout table to eliminate dirt accumulation problems for easier pipe changes and better serviceability. And it simplifies maintenance with an updated powerpack and extends service intervals in extreme conditions thanks to more robust FRG air intake filters.
Grading capability
While it doesn’t come as standard, Sandvik’s DI650i Gen2 are able to be fitted with the optional RC system.
This allows customers to be more flexible with their assets enabling them to do both blast hole drilling and RC drilling to map the ore content of different drill sites and differentiate ore from waste while creating accurate data for resource planning.
Sandvik partnered with RC specialist Australian manufacturer Metzke to provide the integrated system.
SRG Global operates a mix rig fleet dominated by Sandvik products. The new Leopard DI650i Gen2 joins several first generation Leopard DI650i rigs as well as Pantera DP1500is.
As the first Gen2 in commercial operation anywhere in the world, the new drill will be closely monitored by Sandvik and the data collected used to enhance future products.
“We’re extremely pleased that Sandvik is continually considering the challenges that drill-and-blast operators face and finding new solutions that improve efficiency, productivity and safety,” Steiner said.
Forrest said Sandvik’s technology advancements are driven by collaborative partnerships with its customers.
“By working alongside our customers, like SRG Global, to test our technology in real mine environments and our new surface drilling test pit in Finland, we can develop fit for purpose solutions that not only meet their specific needs and address existing industry challenges but are known and proven to perform,” Forrest said.
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