Mpumalanga-based drilling equipment distributor Azize Equipment will use Electra Mining to introduce its latest surface drill rig offerings to the African mining industry.

Its updated lineup features two Sunward drill rig models, the SWDE165B down-the-hole (DTH) crawler drill and the SWDR1388 excavator drill.

The Sunward SWDE165B DTH crawler drill covers hole diameters from 138 mm to 180 mm and reaches a maximum depth of 36 m. Based on a proven design, the updated rig now features a single 277 kW Cummins QSX12 engine, covering the hydraulic and compressor requirements. This results in substantially lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs.

The new Sunward model SWDR1388, which will be highlighted at Electra Mining Africa, now features a single 264 kW Cummins QSL8.9 engine and is the most affordable original-equipment-manufacturer-certified excavator rig on the market.

“We are delighted to use the opportunity offered by EMA2024 to showcase Sunward’s updated range of surface drill rights, building on proven platforms that offer owners the lowest total cost of ownership available in the market,” says sales director Graham Russell.

In addition to the new lineup, Azize Equipment offers one of the most comprehensive product ranges in the market. The SWDH1025 hydraulic rig, for instance, is ideal for quarries and construction operations, drilling holes in the range of 76 mm to 115 mm, up to depths of 25 m. The DTH crawler model range covers all possible blast hole requirements covering hole diameters in the range of 90 mm up to 270 mm and hole depths of up to 36 m.

Powered by Cummins Tier 111a engines, the fuel-efficient, low-emission Sunward drill rigs uphold standard ergonomics and safety designs. Features include cab air- conditioning, radios and LED lights, with options such as automatic fire suppression, external camera and proximity detection systems, as well as depth and angle sensors.

For the first time, Azize Equipment will also display a full range of Sunward drill tools, and DTH hammers, bits and adaptors covering all popular hole sizes.

“We welcome our customers and friends to the Azize and Sunward stands, which offer 270 m2 of dedicated floorspace for meaningful engagement,” says Russell.

Founded in 2019, Azize markets, services and supports a range of Sunward DTH and hydraulic surface drill rigs to customers across Southern Africa. More than 80 Sunward drill rigs are in daily operation in South Africa and surrounding countries, drilling in all typical rock formations and geologies.

Outdoor Red Zone, Stands P15 and P16