Epiroc, based in Sweden, has announced a significant order for surface mining equipment from Newmont Corp in Australia, as well as an order for underground mining equipment, including battery-electric vehicles, from Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) in Kazakhstan.
Newmont Corp, the world’s leading gold producer, has placed an order for a fleet of Epiroc Pit Viper 231 and SmartROC D65 drill rigs, which will be utilized at the Boddington gold and copper mine in Western Australia. These drill rigs will be operated remotely and are set to replace an older fleet of Epiroc machinery. The order, valued at approximately MSEK 335 (US$32.4 million), was recorded in the third quarter of 2024, and Epiroc will also provide servicing for the machines.
Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s President and CEO, stated, “We have a long-standing partnership with Newmont, which is at the forefront of advanced mining operations. We are pleased to support them in making their operations as safe and productive as possible.” The Pit Viper 231 rotary blasthole drill rig is known for its versatility and can be configured for various rotary and down-the-hole (DTH) drilling operations. Meanwhile, the SmartROC D65 rig is recognized for delivering precise and high-quality blastholes.
Delivery of the fleet will begin immediately and continue into the first half of 2025.
In Kazakhstan, ERG has placed an order for underground mining equipment, which includes several battery-electric vehicles. Many of the machines will be operated remotely, and all equipment will feature a collision avoidance system. This order, valued at approximately MSEK 350 (US$33.9 million), was also booked in the third quarter of 2024.
Helena Hedblom remarked, “We share a common goal with ERG of enhancing safety and productivity in mining operations.” The order includes automation-ready trucks and loaders, such as the Minetruck MT42 SG and Scooptram ST14 SG, along with other equipment like the Boomer S2 face drilling rig, Simba E70 S production drill rig, and Cabletec M10 S rock reinforcement rig.
Delivery of the underground equipment will commence in the first quarter of 2025 and will continue into the second half of 2026.
