Cluster Hammer System Expands ITH Drilling Flexibility

Sandvik introduces the Tundo RH700 cluster hammer unit for underground mining operations focused on longhole drilling and mechanized slot raising.  www.home.sandvik Sandvik has introduced the Tundo RH700 cluster hammer unit, a new drilling system designed to increase utilization of existing in-the-hole (ITH) longhole drill rigs while supporting both production drilling and mechanized slot raising. The system targets underground mining applications where rapid deployment, operational flexibility and improved drilling productivity are required. Dual-Function Drilling for Underground Mining The Tundo RH700 cluster hammer unit is compatible with Sandvik DU300-series and DU400-series ITH rigs, enabling operators to switch between production drilling and slot raising using the same carrier and tooling. This approach reduces the need for dedicated slot-raising equipment and helps improve equipment utilization within underground mining fleets. The system supports both push and pull drilling applications, making it suitable for slot raises, service holes and paste fill operations. Designed for 3 × 3 meter headings, the unit can create slot raises and operational holes with diameters of up to 610 mm (24 inches). It is intended for shorter-depth applications requiring rapid setup and complements larger raise-bore slot hole systems already used in underground mining operations. Three-Hammer Cluster Configuration The modular system combines three 6-inch Tundo RH700 hammers operating as a single cluster unit. It is compatible with both 5-foot and 6-foot Sandvik ITH drilling modules and incorporates three optimized 8-inch drill bits designed for push and pull drilling. Interchangeable lower pilot extensions allow drilling in high-angle holes and challenging ground conditions, including uneven backwalls and floors. The cluster hammer architecture is intended to provide higher penetration rates while maintaining operational flexibility across multiple underground drilling scenarios. According to Sandvik, the design enables mining operations to perform both production drilling and slot development with a single rig platform. Productivity and Maintenance Improvements Sandvik reports that field validation conducted at a Canadian gold mine showed the Tundo RH700 achieving drilling performance up to 30% faster than competing systems. The company attributes this improvement to patented hammer technology and optimized compressed-air utilization. Maintenance considerations were also incorporated into the design. The system uses modular hammer bodies that can be replaced quickly, reducing service downtime. Replaceable wear components and wear bushings are intended to extend operating life, while cast housing structures provide additional protection for the hammers and simplify replacement procedures. Corey Flannagan, Product Line Manager at Sandvik, stated that the three-hammer cluster arrangement was developed to increase drilling speed while helping mining companies maximize rig utilization and streamline maintenance activities. Fleet Compatibility and Operational Impact The Tundo RH700 is compatible with Sandvik DU311, DU311-T, DU411 and DU412i rigs. By enabling multiple drilling functions on existing equipment, the system is intended to help mining operations increase drilled meters, reduce equipment changeovers and improve the value of installed drill fleets. This aligns with broader trends in the digital supply chain and underground mining sector toward higher equipment utilization and lower capital intensity. Additional Context: This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement. Cluster hammer systems are increasingly used in underground mining where slot development speed directly affects production schedules. Comparable solutions in the market typically use multiple down-the-hole hammers mounted on a common reaming head to increase hole diameter and penetration rates. Key benchmarking criteria include penetration rate, compressed-air efficiency, maintenance intervals, rig compatibility and achievable hole diameter. The Tundo RH700 supports 610 mm diameter holes using three 152 mm (6-inch) hammers and is designed for existing Sandvik ITH platforms. The reported field-test result of up to 30% faster drilling performance provides a measurable benchmark against competing cluster hammer systems, although detailed comparative penetration-rate data and operating cost metrics have not been publicly disclosed. Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI. www.mining.sandvik Powered by Induportals Media Publishing