Sandvik Launches Leopard DI610i for DTH Production Drilling

The Leopard DI610i is a down-the-hole surface drill rig for 115–203 mm holes, engineered to support high utilization, simplified operator onboarding and optimized total cost of ownership in open-pit production drilling.  www.home.sandvik Applications in Open-Pit Mining and Contract Drilling For open-pit mines and drilling contractors engaged in down-the-hole (DTH) production drilling, maintaining high productivity while controlling capital and operating costs remains a central operational challenge. Sandvik introduces the Leopard DI610i, a high-performance surface drill rig designed specifically for hole diameters ranging from 115 to 203 mm (4½”–8”). The new drill rig is intended for demanding production drilling environments, combining established platform performance with operator-assisting features and a simulator-based training program aimed at supporting consistent drilling results. According to Jari Läntinen, Business Development Manager, Surface Drilling at Sandvik, contractors and mine operators face continuous pressure to maintain productivity and uptime while managing both investment and operating expenditures. He states that the Leopard DI610i was developed with a focus on reliable performance, high availability and a straightforward operator experience that enables teams to reach operational readiness efficiently. Optimized for Total Cost of Ownership The Leopard DI610i is specified with a fit-for-purpose configuration and a streamlined feature set designed to help customers manage initial capital expenditure. Rather than incorporating a broad range of optional systems, the machine focuses on core production drilling requirements. Across the equipment lifecycle, optimized serviceability and extended service intervals contribute to reducing planned downtime and lowering operating costs. These factors are intended to support strong returns in high-utilization, productivity-driven mining operations where equipment availability directly impacts output. Built on a Proven Platform The Leopard DI610i is developed on the established Leopard DI650i platform and integrates high-performance components validated in field applications. The design incorporates customer-driven updates, including enhancements introduced with the latest Gen2 platform to reinforce durability and uptime in daily production drilling. Jarno Viitaniemi, Product Manager, Surface Drilling at Sandvik, notes that the machine builds on technology and components already proven under operational conditions. The stated objective is to deliver a dependable production drilling solution capable of sustaining productivity over time while remaining straightforward to maintain in real-world environments. Structured Operator Training for Faster Onboarding Operator competency and consistency are addressed through a defined training pathway that begins before the machine enters full production use. The Leopard DI610i is supported by Sandvik’s SimDriller+ training program, a simulator-based environment where operators can practice essential drilling tasks and become familiar with the operator-assisting sequences integrated into the rig’s control system. Following simulator training, learning continues inside the iCab cabin, which is designed to provide both operator comfort and space for practical on-machine instruction. The cabin includes dedicated space behind the operator’s seat to accommodate a trainer during live instruction. In daily operation, the same operator-assisting sequences used during training help reduce repetitive manual actions and support consistent, accurate drilling performance. By enabling operators to build familiarity early, the system aims to promote safe and repeatable operation while reducing the likelihood of avoidable wear and unplanned downtime. Through this structured approach to performance, serviceability and operator development, the Leopard DI610i is positioned as a production drilling solution designed to balance productivity, uptime and lifecycle cost control in open-pit mining environments. www.mining.sandvik.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing