Sandvik’s battery-electric drill is its fastest underground machine yet

Battery-electric power meets the performance of diesel 

In addition to these electrification advances, Sandvik DD423iE retains the performance improvements of its diesel counterpart. These include 34.5 percent greater drilling coverage, 48 percent 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 percent increase in visibility, while maintaining more than 95 percent 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 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.” They said, adding: “As a former driller, it was great to see what a huge leap has been made from the DD422iE to this device.”

Designed for underground environments 

The high-performance battery system is engineered for demanding underground conditions, utilizing three lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to deliver 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, emphasized how the next generation of Sandvik battery drills builds on the company’s legacy of drilling developments, while being driven by the industry’s future needs.

“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,” he said.