Sandvik has introduced the new Leopard DI610i, a high-performance, down-the-hole (DTH) surface drill rig.
The new drill rig is designed for drilling contractors and open-pit mines and is focused on high utilization, fast operator onboarding and optimized total cost of ownership.
Leopard DI610i, with a hole size range of 115–203 mm (4½”–8”), is built for demanding production drilling environments, combining proven performance with operator-assisting features and a simulator-based training program to support consistent results.
“Contractors and mine operators are working under constant pressure to keep productivity and uptime high while controlling both investment and operating costs,” said Jari Läntinen, business development manager, surface drilling at Sandvik. “With Leopard DI610i, we focused on what customers need most in production drilling: reliable performance, high availability and a straightforward operator experience that helps teams get up to speed quickly.”
Leopard DI610i is designed with a fit-for-purpose specification and a streamlined feature offering that helps customers keep capital expenses under control. Over the equipment lifecycle, optimized serviceability and extended service intervals contribute to reduced downtime and lower operating costs, supporting strong returns in high-utilization, productivity-driven operations.
Built on the trusted Leopard DI650i platform and high-performance components, Leopard DI610i is engineered for dependable operation in demanding open-pit applications. The design incorporates customer-driven improvements, including upgrades introduced with the latest Gen2 platform to support robust performance and high uptime in daily production use.
“Leopard DI610i is built on technology and components that are proven in the field. The focus has been to deliver a reliable production drilling solution that stays productive over time and is easy to keep running in real operating conditions,” said Jarno Viitaniemi, product manager, surface drilling at Sandvik.
Leopard DI610i supports a clear learning path from training to production. The journey starts with Sandvik’s new SimDriller+ training program, where operators practice key tasks in a safe environment and become familiar with the operator-assisting sequences used in real drilling.
Learning then continues in the spacious iCab cabin, designed for both comfort and practical on-machine training, with space behind the operator’s seat for a trainer to follow and guide the operation. In daily work, these same assisting sequences help reduce repetitive tasks and ensure consistent, accurate operation.
