Sandvik's latest surface drill is a tophammer rig that is the first model in a new series, as well as the first to display the company's new numbering system and colors. The Sandvik DP1500i — the initial unit in Sandvik's new DPi series — is based on the Tamrock Pantera line of rigs capable of sinking holes in the range of 76-152 mm using high-frequency drifter drills. But the DPi line is “smarter” than its predecessors, according to Sandvik.

A suitably equipped DP1500i can monitor and collect information that includes drilling footage, engine and percussion hours, fuel consumption and — perhaps most importantly — machine health, thus allowing orderly planning of work and maintenance schedules. The rig's data processing system also will indicate what service parts are needed and is remote-access ready.

According to Sandvik, all drilling system parameters can be set from inside the cabin. The DPi rigs have an advanced user interface with simple screen views for different operations. There are a number of preset drilling setups for different rock conditions as well as an optional automatic drill-to-depth feature. Automatic feed alignment capability also is available as an option.

Sandvik says the DPi series machines are easy to service and maintain, with a logical layout and wide-opening service doors for convenient access. Typical daily and weekly service points are accessible from the ground level, and lubrication fluid drain points are centralized. Adding to maintenance efficiency are built-in, step-by-step troubleshooting instructions and a self-diagnostics system specifically designed to quickly zero-in on malfunctioning systems, circuits or components. According to the company, the drill's much lower fuel consumption is achieved with “smart” features such as load-sensing compressor pressure control, active diesel RPM control and ambient oil cooler fan control. Sandvik