Master Drilling’s Robotic Rig Boosts Productivity by 50% While Cutting Water Use by 75%
Robotic Drilling Delivers Breakthrough Results
Master Drilling has reported significant performance gains from its newly deployed robotic drilling rig, which outperformed conventional rigs with 50% higher productivity and 75% lower water consumption. These figures were shared by director Koos Jordaan during the company’s 2023 financial results presentation, which also highlighted a record $270.8 million in revenue.
The rig, introduced at a project site last year, showcases the company’s growing investment in automation and sustainability. By minimizing water usage while increasing drilling speed, it represents a key milestone in Master Drilling’s strategy to modernize underground mining operations with smarter, cleaner technology.
New Equipment Moves Toward Commercialization
Following the success of the robotic rig, Master Drilling is preparing a slim variant for field trials in Q2 2025. This version is designed for greater flexibility in underground environments. Alongside it, a slot-boring rig for larger-diameter boxholes is being commissioned, and a low-profile rig has already been deployed in Tanzania.
The company is also progressing with next-generation tunnelling and shaft-sinking equipment. A 5.5-meter tunnel boring machine (TBM) is set for deployment mid-year, and a 6.5-meter TBM design is available for project use. Additionally, a 50-meter shaft sinking test launched in early 2025 is laying the groundwork for full-scale commercial rollout next year.
These technologies are aimed at meeting increasing global demand for faster, safer underground access as more mines transition away from surface operations.
Digital Systems Enhance Safety and Efficiency
Beyond hardware, Master Drilling is expanding its digital capabilities. Through its group company A&R, it has introduced a winch safety system that automatically identifies operators and halts equipment if unauthorized personnel enter hazardous zones. This solution not only boosts safety but supports regulatory compliance across sites.
Another group company, AVA, has launched a platform that gives mining clients a real-time view of material movement, stockpiling, and blending. This integration of data into daily operations is helping mines make faster, more informed decisions.
Master Drilling is also developing a private large language model (LLM) that enables clients to manage large datasets, identify inefficiencies, and reduce operational risks through AI. Jordaan emphasized the need for locally hosted, brand-agnostic systems, noting the limitations of relying on foreign-hosted infrastructure in critical mining operations.
Shaping the Future of Underground Mining
With operations in nearly 30 countries, Master Drilling continues to lead in mechanised rock excavation, shaft sinking, and automated drilling. Its collaboration with Element Six is pushing the boundaries of low-energy, non-explosive rock-breaking technology, while partnerships with companies like Komatsu are opening new pathways for equipment integration and innovation.
As the mining industry accelerates its shift toward automation, sustainability, and digital transformation, Master Drilling is positioning itself at the forefront. The company’s focus on scalable, high-performance solutions reflects its commitment to improving safety, reducing environmental impact, and delivering long-term value to clients around the world.
This summary is based on the original article by International Mining. Read the full article here: Link
