Sandvik is expanding its range of underground mining support technologies with a new, fully integrated resin bolting solution designed to improve safety, quality, and productivity in mining operations worldwide. Resin bolting is a method of strengthening underground rock by inserting metal rods, known as bolts, into drilled holes and securing them with a fast-setting resin. This technique helps prevent rock falls and keeps tunnels stable.
Sandvik’s approach brings together several key technologies into a single, coordinated package. This includes their underground drill rigs, pumpable resin systems (which deliver resin directly to the bolt holes in liquid form for efficient and uniform installation), resin capsule injection systems, specialised chemical products, and a wide variety of bolts. By ensuring these components are designed to work together, the solution delivers consistent results even in complex underground environments.
One of the standout features is the Automatic Resin Capsules Injection System (ARI system). This is an automated device that loads and inserts resin capsules—pre-measured packets of resin—into bolt holes without manual handling. The ARI system allows operators to load resin from ground level and automates the injection process, freeing up time for other tasks and reducing their exposure to potential hazards. For example, during a recent deployment at a large underground mine, Sandvik’s solution helped decrease bolt installation times by up to 25% and reported a 40% drop in manual chemical handling incidents, demonstrating measurable improvements in both productivity and safety.
The integration of Sandvik’s technologies is further enhanced by a centralised control interface built into the equipment. Operators can manage every step of the process—from mixing the resin to injecting and curing it—directly from the safety of the cabin. This unified control not only improves consistency and quality, but also streamlines operations, as all components communicate seamlessly.
Sandvik’s resin bolting range includes pumpable resin systems designed for specific drill models such as the DD422i/iE Dual Controls development drills and i-series rock bolters (DS412i/iE and DS512i). The sealed nature of the pumpable resin system means operators avoid direct contact with chemicals, which enhances both safety and ease of use.
Completing the package are high-performance chemical products and a broad selection of bolts. The Mineral Boltis a two-part resin system (urea-silicate) that can be tailored for different setting times, allowing mines to adapt to local ground conditions. For those using resin capsules, Sandvik offers Fasloc® capsules, which are available in various types and manufactured globally to meet local needs. The bolt selection also features the DSI Hollow Bar System—a solution that uses hollow, self-drilling bolts for improved installation in difficult ground—as well as solid rebar and dynamic bolts, ensuring the right match for every situation.
This comprehensive approach not only eliminates manual handling of hazardous chemicals but also enables consistent installation quality through automated resin dosing. Features such as large onboard resin storage, adjustable curing times, and faster installation cycles have helped mining operations achieve significant gains in productivity and safety. Sandvik’s end-to-end resin bolting solution represents a major advancement in automated ground support, offering the reliability and performance required for today’s demanding underground mining environments.