Epiroc, a renowned mining equipment provider, has secured a substantial deal with Fortescue, a multinational metals company, to supply a fleet of autonomous, zero-emission electric drill rigs for use in Australian mines. The $350 million AUD contract will see Epiroc delivering Pit Viper 271E and SmartROC D65 BE drill rigs to Fortescue’s iron ore mines in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
These state-of-the-art drill rigs will be powered by either a cable connection to the grid or batteries for more remote sites. The autonomous machines will operate without drivers, overseen by remote operators situated over 1,500 km away at Fortescue’s Integrated Operations Centre in Perth. This innovative approach is expected to eliminate approximately 35 million liters of diesel consumption annually, a significant environmental benefit for Fortescue.
Helena Hedblom, President of Epiroc, expressed pride in supporting Fortescue’s efforts to reduce emissions, enhance safety, and boost productivity through automation. The Pit Viper 271E and SmartROC D65 BE drill rigs offer top-notch performance and operational efficiency. The Pit Viper 271E features a patented cable feed system that prolongs component life and reduces operational costs, while the SmartROC D65 BE is a battery-electric version of the successful SmartROC D65 drill rig.
Fortescue has been a trailblazer in electrifying the mining industry, with initiatives such as converting excavators to electric, funding the development of high-power EV chargers, and deploying autonomous electric drill rigs in their operations. Their goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2030 aligns with the global shift towards sustainable practices in mining.
The collaboration between Epiroc and Fortescue underscores the growing demand for electric and autonomous mining equipment driven by the need for cleaner operations and increased productivity. The adoption of electric mining machines is on the rise, supported by the rising demand for critical minerals like nickel, lithium, and phosphates. Additionally, the industry’s persistent labor shortage is fueling the demand for autonomous technology in mining equipment.
The market outlook for electric and autonomous mining equipment looks promising, as companies like Epiroc and Fortescue continue to demonstrate the viability and benefits of electrification in the mining sector. The future of electric mining is bright, with technological advancements paving the way for more sustainable and efficient operations.
For more information and images, visit the Epiroc website.
