Epiroc's Autonomous Drills Exceed World Circumference in Metres Drilled

Epiroc, a provider of mining and infrastructure equipment, has reached a significant milestone with its autonomous drilling technology. The company reported that its autonomous drill rigs have drilled a cumulative total of more than 41 million meters, exceeding the circumference of the Earth.

This achievement highlights the growing adoption and effectiveness of autonomous drilling, which Epiroc states has contributed to a reduction in CO2e emissions exceeding 100,000 tonnes. The company attributes these reductions to increased drilling efficiency, enhanced precision, and the elimination of travel to remote drill sites, thereby improving safety and productivity for mine operators.

Both surface rigs, such as the Pit Viper 351, and underground rigs, like the Simba production drill rigs, are increasingly operated autonomously. Epiroc cited an example where a single Simba rig autonomously drilled over one million meters underground for a mining customer. The company emphasizes that autonomous operation creates a safer and more comfortable work environment.

Epiroc is continuing its focus on sustainability and digitalization within the mining industry. The company has set targets to offer its entire fleet of underground mining equipment in emission-free versions by 2025 and its surface equipment fleet by 2030. Additionally, Epiroc is collaborating with steel manufacturer SSAB to develop mining equipment utilizing fossil-free steel, further supporting the industry's transition towards reduced environmental impact.