Rio Tinto has partnered with Sandvik to integrate i-series surface drill rigs with its Autonomous Drilling System, developing interoperability for remote, multi-rig operations with initial testing in Finland and Australia. The company is commissioning a $1.5bn smelter expansion in Quebec deploying low-carbon AP60 technology to add 160,000t yearly aluminium capacity.
Rio Tinto and Sandvik have launched a joint development to integrate Sandvik’s i-series surface drill rigs with Rio Tinto’s Autonomous Drilling System. The collaboration aims to enhance safety, productivity and compatibility by combining Rio Tinto’s remote operations expertise with Sandvik’s AutoMine automation technology.
Initial development and testing will occur at Sandvik’s test pit in Finland, with coordination through Rio Tinto’s Operations Centre in Perth, Australia. Subsequent site-based trials at Rio Tinto’s Western Australian iron ore operations will assess performance against production targets for remote, multi-site and multi-rig drilling.
Rio Tinto has begun commissioning a $1.5bn expansion at its Complexe Arvida smelter in Quebec, deploying low-carbon AP60 aluminium smelting technology. The project will bring all 96 pots online by end-2026, boosting annual primary aluminium capacity by 160,000 tonnes to reach 220,000 tonnes, and includes plans for a new recycling centre.
