Barrick Gold Corporation boosts Porgera drilling by renewing its rig fleet, partnering with Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions in Papua New Guinea. During the first quarter of 2025, Barrick placed an order for seven surface drilling rigs with Sandvik.
New Porgera drilling technologies
All of this is aimed at replacing older equipment from other manufacturers. This investment includes four Sandvik DR410i rotary drilling rigs and three Leopard™ DI650i down-the-hole (DTH) rigs, with deliveries scheduled between June and November of the same year.
Among the advances highlighted, two Leopard™ DI650i incorporate the reverse circulation (RC) sampling option, facilitating more accurate grade control and reservoir identification. In addition, the entire fleet will be connected to Sandvik’s Remote Monitoring Service (RMS), optimizing equipment management and reducing maintenance costs.
Sandvik’s new investments, equipment and expansion in the region
The Porgera mine, located at an altitude of 2,300 meters, resumed operations in December 2023 after a period of escrow. With measured and indicated resources of 13.3 million ounces of gold and inferred resources of 5.56 million ounces, Porgera represents a strategic asset for both Barrick and its partners.
This surface machinery replacement initiative follows a previous agreement in 2024 for the supply of subway equipmentwith deliveries scheduled through 2028. Barrick and Sandvik also extended their global framework agreement to the end of 2023, strengthening a long-term collaboration.
Sandvik’s presence in Sandvik’s presence in Papua New Guinea will be expanded to support the operation, through local capacity building, parts supply, component repair and field services. In addition, a change management program will be implemented to ensure knowledge transfer and efficient operation of the new fleet.
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Source and photo: Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions
