Sandvik said the DT923i, which has been designed for high-power face drilling in tunnel and cavern excavations, comes equipped with digital face drilling automation additions.

The rig's automatic drilling functions and operator-controlled boom positioning are computer-controlled, while its SB110i booms use the company's patent-pending "stiff square" shape boom technology.

The booms have a front wrist structure that gives 62% more side coverage and good support for high power drilling, said the company. In aaddtion, a fully proportional boom control enables accurate   handling with   boom collision prevention an optional extra.

"The rig has an innovative new IT solution that streamlines and automates the drilling process," said Mattias Widenbrant, Assistant Project Manager for Arbetstunneln (Working Tunnel) at Subterra, one of the contractors for a subway extension project in Stockholm, Sweden, which trailed the Sandvik DT923i for the first three months of 2021.

"The new improved cabin creates a safer, cleaner working environment that is designed to reduce noise, keep dust out and optimize the viewing angle. All in all, it's an innovative rig that enables us to work more flexibly and efficiently."