Nordgold, the internationally diversified gold producer, has upgraded the mining fleet at its underground Irokinda mine in Russia to ensure safer and more efficient operations. A Sandvik DD321, a modern compact, two boom electro-hydraulic mining development drill rig, has already been put into operation at the Tuluinskaya-Medvezhya vein of Irokinda.
The mine has also purchased a self-propelled concrete sprayer, a Normet Spraymec SF 040, and a self-contained cable-bolting rig, Sandvik DS421. These will be used in one unit at the Serebryakovskaya vein. These machineries are new to the Irokinda mine meaning the manufacturers have conducted mine specific maintenance training on site for mine employees. In addition to the underground mining fleet, the Irokinda mine has modernised its auxiliary equipment and machinery. This includes a fire truck and two new shift buses which have been purchased.
Sergey Kamendanov, Head of underground mining operations at the Irokinda mine, said: “We are delighted to add this new versatile, reliable equipment into our mining operations at Irokinda. The drill rig has two booms and is capable of developing capital declines, cross-cut drives and drilling holes for bolting support. The design of the cab with a height-adjustable shields allows its operator to benefit from clear sightlines and further supports safe working conditions. This jumbo provides safe, smooth drilling and will improve the efficiency of our mine.”
Nikolai Gordeyev, Chief Mechanic, said: “The Sandvik DS421 is a drill rig that has been specifically engineered for rock reinforcement in underground mines. It enables the full bolting cycle to be operated by one person working safely under the canopy. The Spraymec SF 040 concrete sprayer supports and stabilises tunnels applying concrete, layer by layer under very high pressure, enabling us to fill even the smallest cracks and pores. Ultimately these machines will enable us to maintain and improve our high standards of safety and ensure the mine is kept in excellent condition. These additions to the mining fleet and its world class performance achieved in 2021 will ensure sustainable mining performance at Irokinda in 2022 and beyond.”
Irokinda is an underground gold mine located in the Muysky district of the Republic of Buryatia in Russia some 75 km from the town of Taksimo, where the Baikal-Amur railroad station and airport are located, and is accessible from an all-season road. The mine supports more than 700 jobs.
