MMG Rosebery has become the first mine in Tasmania, Australia, to introduce a battery-electric production drill to its underground mining fleet, with the introduction of the Epiroc Simba E70 SG.

The machine, a 34-tonne, 14-metre-long underground drill rig, is designed for blasting holes to open up production areas in mining operations. It is equipped with 150 kW of traction power and a 150 kW battery system, the latter of which allows the rig to tram between drilling locations.

Rosebery Mine General Manager, Steve Scott, said this is the first phase in the operations’ transition to battery-electric vehicle equipment.

“The battery-electric production drill provides the additional benefits of a reduction in noise and vibration for operators of the equipment, reducing heat generation and the emissions of diesel particulate matter,” he said. “The multi-million dollar investment in battery-electric equipment follows the introduction of three low emission diesel electric loaders into our underground fleet in 2023.” The loaders in question are Caterpillar R2900 XE diesel-electric units.

He added: “We have seen some significant environmental benefits from our transition to the diesel-electric loaders, such as using 170,000 litres less diesel fuel last year.

“As we navigate higher operational costs and a community expectation to reduce our environmental impact, this highlights our commitment to mining in a more sustainable way.”