The relatively small size of Zimbabwe’s mining sector hasn’t hindered Sandvik’s operations in the country from forging world-class partnerships, including the groundbreaking deployment of autonomous trucks in a room-and-pillar mining setting.
“The automation project has been particularly exciting for us, as it demonstrates how we can push the boundaries with Sandvik’s cutting-edge digital technology,” said Brian Chitenderu, Sandvik’s Territory Manager for Zimbabwe. “At the core of such technological progress are the strong relationships of trust that we’ve built with customers over many years.”
This collaboration led to an ambitious project that began a few years ago, with a forward-thinking mining client partnering with Sandvik to introduce automation using its AutoMine system in a low-profile, room-and-pillar environment. The trials focused on testing 45-tonne Toro TH545i underground dump trucks within the mine’s main haulage routes. Chitenderu noted that a major milestone was achieved in early 2024 with the successful implementation of a fully automated loop, including an underground crusher.
“The years leading up to this milestone involved extensive R&D work from our Finland factory, particularly on the traffic management system,” Chitenderu explained. “This system manages five TH545i trucks, with the possibility of adding five more in the future.”
A key challenge has been integrating the mine’s primarily manual trackless equipment with the automated units. This required constant collaboration between the customer and Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions’ expert teams.
“The success of these trials marks the first fully automated trucking loop in a low-profile, room-and-pillar environment,” Chitenderu stated. “The next phase will involve introducing an automated loader, followed by the progressive automation of drills.”
While the customer’s identity was not disclosed, platinum miner Zimplats, in its 2024 annual report, highlighted that mine automation had been introduced at its Mupani mine, starting with dump truck automation. Full rollout is scheduled for FY2024, with the mine featuring an underground crusher and an LTE network for both underground and surface operations.
In addition to automation, Sandvik’s operations in Zimbabwe have expanded to include a full remanufacturing service for underground equipment. By upgrading its workshop infrastructure and capabilities, Sandvik now offers customers the ability to remanufacture trucks, loaders, or drills in-country, providing a cost-effective solution with the same warranty as new equipment.
“The advantage of this model is that we can fully assess each machine, ensuring it is rebuilt to OEM specifications and backed by a new unit’s warranty,” Chitenderu explained. Since the remanufacturing program launched seven years ago, 136 pieces of equipment have been remanufactured, extending their operational life.
Sandvik also installed a state-of-the-art rock drill testing facility in November 2023, which allows for rigorous testing and certification of remanufactured drills, further assuring customers of quality. Additionally, Sandvik offers various support packages, ranging from onsite expertise to full maintenance contracts.
The Zimbabwe operation also supports Sandvik Rock Processing, including crushers, screens, and feeders, in collaboration with the South African team. This development aims to build local expertise and reduce lead times for technical support.
“Sandvik Rock Processing’s first dedicated employee in Zimbabwe is now in place, and we are building local capacity for scheduled maintenance and breakdowns,” Chitenderu said. “This is crucial for growing our crushing and screening business in the country.”
Skills development remains central to Sandvik’s growth strategy, with training programs evolving to include more electronics, mechatronics, and data analysis. Sandvik has also partnered with the national ministry of education to create new qualifications in these areas, which will be taught at technical colleges.
“We’re working with the University of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe School of Mines to introduce future engineers to the digitalisation and automation trends shaping the mining industry,” Chitenderu noted.
To further support customers, Sandvik ensures the availability of spare parts through various channels, including over-the-counter sales, vendor-managed inventory, and consignment stock, tailored to meet the needs of each client.
