TECHNOLOGY

Sandvik improves DTH hammer design

Sandvik has launched its new RH560 down-the-hole (DTH) hammer, designed for long service life and reduced drilling costs

Staff reporter
 The new Sandvik RH560 DTH hammer

The new Sandvik RH560 DTH hammer

PRESS RELEASE: According to Sandvik, the new hammer combines the reliability of its previous RH460 model with the simplicity of the RH510 hammer.

The enhanced air cycle and piston design deliver a higher striking power, while fewer internal parts provide reliability, minimising failures and downtime.

Many mining companies want to reduce their cost and increase their productivity by using premium hammers without a foot valve, as some consider it to be less reliable. The Sandvik RH560 offers a suitable alternative for those who want hammers without foot valve design.

In tests in varying rock conditions, the new design has been proven to deliver up to a 15% increase in penetration rate, with smoother collaring and straighter blastholes. The new hammer provides greater advancement, improved profile-control and reduces overall costs, the company said.

Higher power output comes from lower air consumption. The hammer improves reliability and economy through optimised air consumption, increasing power and improving lubrication. This enables the drilling of larger holes at the same speed as a smaller hole with a standard hammer, delivering further cost savings.

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