CUTTING EDGE DRILLING SET TO BOOST FQM SAFETY, PRECISION & EFFICIENCY
First Quantum is introducing new automated drilling technology at its Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila, marking the first time this advanced system has been used in Zambia.
The innovation is expected to help the country move closer to its national goal of producing 3 million tonnes of copper per year, while improving safety and upskilling existing jobs.
Three automated drill machines were successfully tested at Sentinel, operated by First Quantum’s subsidiary Trident Mining, in partnership with the supplier, Flanders Inc .
Following the positive results, Flanders Inc. has committed to opening a local office in Zambia to support the roll-out and to build local capacity. Flanders Inc. is the industry leader for OEM-agnostic drill automation.
Importantly, no jobs will be lost as a result of the automation. Instead, employees are being trained for higher-skilled roles, including operating the technology from a central control room and serving as roaming field operators who oversee the automated drills.
The new system has already delivered major improvements. The X, Y and Z precision of drill holes have improved significantly thanks to advanced laser sensors and GPS technology.
As a result, blasting quality and fragmentation have improved. The number of holes drilled has increased by over one-third and safety has also improved as operators can now manage the equipment from a secure, remote location.
This type of drilling technology is already in use in mines in South Africa, Botswana, Australia, South America and the United States. With the trials now complete, the company has received the necessary regulatory approval to roll out automated drilling in Zambia.
“Innovation is central to how we operate at First Quantum,” said Zambia Country Director, Anthony Mukutuma. “We are proud to introduce this state-of-the-art drilling system and to show once again that Zambia is at the forefront of modern copper production. This investment helps us improve productivity while keeping workers safe and protecting jobs.”
The move reflects the message shared by Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr Kabeta Hapenga at the Zambia Chamber of Mines’ 9th Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment Conference in October. He reminded the sector that:
“Innovation and technology remain critical in our efforts to eliminate fatalities, injuries, and occupational diseases, ensuring that every miner returns home safely.”
He added: “Our focus on enhancing environmental safety and promoting local participation through job creation and wealth retention remains paramount. We are committed to building a safe, sustainable, and technology-driven mining and industrial sector.”
