Sandvik has unveiled “Sami”, a concept underground mining machine shown at the Future of Mining 2026 event in Tampere, Finland, as a testbed for advanced automation and AI-driven operation. The platform is designed to integrate sensor fusion, onboard edge computing and cloud connectivity, enabling autonomous tramming, real-time ground awareness and adaptive control in complex stopes and declines. For mine planners and engineers, Sami signals Sandvik’s direction towards interoperable, software-defined fleets where new automation functions can be trialled and deployed faster than traditional machine development cycles.

Epiroc is extending its Automatic Bit Changer (ABC), first deployed on large Pit Viper rotary drills in 2022, to its range of large down-the-hole (DTH) crawler rigs. The system automates drill bit change-out, removing manual handling at the drill string and reducing exposure around the rotary head and deck. Mines can expect shorter non-productive time during bit swaps and lower operator workload, particularly on high‑metreage production benches where frequent bit changes are required.

Sandvik’s SEK260 million expansion of its Tampere, Finland rock drill plant has reached a key phase, with the new factory area, CNC machine tools and automation systems installed and production ramp-up underway. The 2023-launched programme targets higher output of top hammer and down-the-hole drills for both underground and surface rigs, consolidating core component manufacturing at a single European hub. For mine operators and contractors, the added capacity should ease lead times on OEM drill strings and support fleet standardisation across Sandvik’s latest automated drilling platforms.