Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology added to its high-pressure down-the-hole (DTH) drill rig line with the Leopard DI650i, which has been created for larger hole sizes. The automated drill can handle high-capacity production drilling in surface mining and large quarry applications. With intelligent technology for controlling the compressor and hydraulic system’s cooler fan, the Leopard can consume up to 15 per cent less fuel than other DTH rigs, Sandvik said. The rig also sports an ergonomic cab with HEPA dust filters and an integrated touch screen for displaying monitoring, diagnostics and mining automation functions. The drill can be serviced at ground level on both sides of the machine, which the company said contributes to a 20 per cent availability increase compared to other conventional rigs. The Leopard DI650i, which will be available in North America next year, also has the ability to incorporate more automation solutions, and comes equipped with features like drill navigation, wireless data transfer and fleet monitoring.