|
 |
[Sweden] New tech for a new mine  The recently-opened Storliden Mine near Skellefteå - the first economically viable deposit to be discovered in the so-called Baltic Shield for 10 years - is off to a flying start with the introduction of state-of-the-art drilling technology. Owned by NAN (North Atlantic Resources AB) and operated by Boliden Minerals AB, the mine has commissioned an Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C drill rig equipped with systems for computerized mine navigation and drill plan generation (See M&C 2/2002, Technically Speaking). Atlas Copco specialists are currently training the Storliden operators to use the equipment which allows them to navigate and generate drill plans directly at the face. Besides this, the operators also appreciate the streamlined and ergonomic design of the rig and the extremely low noise level of the cab. The mine has already produced and delivered around 100,000 tonnes of ore. Mine Manager Magnus Arnqvist says: "Storliden is a completely new venture and we have an open attitude to new thinking. "This rig represents an important step forward and will give us the ability to meet our production goals for 2003 and forward. The operators are very pleased with their new tool and so far the implementation of the computer guided drilling system has been a success." Storliden is expected to yield high grade copper and zinc for the next 10 years. For more information on the Baltic Shield: www.nanr.se/eng |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
