Epiroc said the machines, which include Boomer face drilling rigs, Simba production drilling rigs, and Boltec and Cabletec rock reinforcement rigs, will be used to expand two of the company's underground iron ore mines.

"Dazhong Mining has ordered a variety of rigs for face drilling, production and rock reinforcement for use at the Zhouyoufang and Zhongxinji mines in the Anhui Province."

The order is valued at about MSEK 200 and was booked in the third quarter 2021. In addition to the equipment, the order includes on-site service and training including sophisticated simulators, which provide a safe and realistic environment to enhance the skills of machine operators.

Dazhong Mining is rated as a national Green Mine Enterprise, meaning it is recognized for its sustainable way of mining. The company also purchased a large number of machines from Epiroc in 2020.

"Epiroc is happy to team up again with Dazhong Mining so it can expand its operations further while strengthening safety, sustainability and productivity," says Helena Hedblom, Epiroc's President and CEO. 

"Our operations have truly become more safe, environmentally friendly and efficient through Epiroc's equipment and service," says the Head of Dazhong Mining. "We are happy that this model will continue to be applied to the expansion of two mines. We have a good long-term partnership with Epiroc as this supports us with a high-level technical resource which promotes the sustainable development of the mining industry."

Most of the units will have Epiroc's Rig Control System, RCS, installed, which makes them ready for automation and remote control. The equipment will be delivered in 2021 and 2022.