PRESS RELEASE: The machines will be used to develop the existing open-pit mine into an underground mine, and then to operate the mine with significantly increased productivity, as well as enhanced safety and improved cost efficiency, the manufacturer said.

"We are proud to be a key partner of Cormidom as they develop the Cerro de Maimon mine for significantly higher production," said Helena Hedblom, Epiroc's senior executive vice-president for mining and infrastructure.

"We are committed to delivering more productivity and safety to our customers at a lower total cost of operation."

Paul Arndt, the managing director of Perilya, the Australian parent of Cormidom, commented: "Perilya has a long and successful operating history with Epiroc in Australia. We see this as a chance to build on this relationship and develop further a strong partnership utilising Epiroc equipment throughout all the key phases of the mining cycle."

The order includes the Boomer M2 and Simba E7 drill rigs, the Scooptram ST18 underground loader and the Minetruck MT65, among other machines and rock drilling tools. The equipment will be delivered over the next two years.