MMG said its Rosebery polymetallic base metal mine is the first operation in Tasmania to introduce a battery-electric production drill to its underground mining fleet.
The Epiroc Simba E70SG is a 34-tonne, 14-metre-long underground drill rig 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, marking another step toward more sustainable mining practices.
“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,” said General Manager Steve Scott, noting that this is the first phase in transitioning to battery-electric vehicle equipment.
“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. 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.”
Rosebery, which is located 125 kilometres south of Burnie, remains committed to MMG’s vision to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Source: MMG Limited