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Precise positioning and high-performance drilling with the Sandvik DT923i

Jul 30, 2026 5:13 PM EEST

Accuracy is essential in tunneling. Before drilling can begin, the equipment must be positioned correctly and the drilling plan must be aligned with the exact location of the face. Even small positioning errors can affect drilling accuracy, excavation quality and the efficiency of the entire tunneling cycle.

The Sandvik DT923i combines high-performance face drilling with advanced automation and navigation technology. Available as part of the Sandvik rental fleet, the tunneling jumbo offers a flexible solution for projects that require drilling capacity, reliable performance and precise positioning.

Designed for automated face drilling

The Sandvik DT923i is an automated i-series tunneling jumbo equipped with two electro-hydraulic booms. It is designed for high-power drilling in tunnel and cavern excavations and can perform fully automated face drilling.

Different levels of automation allow the equipment to be adapted to the requirements of the project and the experience of the operator. This supports consistent drilling results while making the machine easier to operate during demanding tunneling applications.

By automating important parts of the drilling process, the DT923i can help improve drilling accuracy, repeatability and overall productivity.

Easier navigation with the iNav Total Station

Correct positioning is a critical first step in achieving an accurate drilling result. The optional iNav Total Station provides a more efficient and convenient way to navigate and position the DT923i inside the tunnel.

The solution connects the total station directly to the drill rig. Navigation commands can be sent from the rig’s user interface, allowing the operator to manage the positioning process without repeatedly moving between separate systems.

This creates a more streamlined workflow and helps reduce the time required to prepare the jumbo for drilling.

Visual verification of measurement points

The iNav Total Station does more than determine the location of the drill rig. The system also provides coordinate-based visualizations that allow operators to verify the validity and accuracy of the selected measurement points.

This visual feedback makes it easier to identify incorrect or unreliable points before drilling begins. As a result, the risk of positioning errors is reduced and operators have greater confidence that the drilling plan is correctly aligned with the tunnel face.

More accurate positioning at the start of the cycle can support improved drilling precision throughout the entire round.

Supporting accuracy and productivity underground

In tunneling, each stage of the excavation process is connected. Incorrect positioning can lead to deviations in the drilling pattern, which may influence blasting results, overbreak, underbreak and the amount of scaling or reinforcement required afterwards.

Combining automated drilling with reliable navigation helps create a more controlled and repeatable process. The DT923i supports operators by bringing positioning, drilling plans and automation together in one integrated working environment.

This can contribute to:

  • More accurate jumbo positioning
  • Consistent execution of drilling plans
  • Reduced risk of measurement and positioning errors
  • Faster preparation before drilling
  • Improved drilling repeatability
  • More efficient tunneling cycles

Advanced equipment without a long-term investment

Project requirements can change quickly. Additional drilling capacity may be needed for a specific phase, to support a production peak or to replace equipment that is temporarily unavailable.

Renting the Sandvik DT923i provides access to advanced tunneling technology without requiring an immediate long-term equipment investment. The rental period can be aligned with the project schedule, giving contractors greater flexibility when planning equipment capacity.

Depending on the project requirements, Sandvik can also provide technical support, service agreements and operator training to help ensure the equipment is used safely and efficiently.

A flexible solution for demanding tunneling projects

The Sandvik DT923i is designed for tunneling projects where drilling performance, automation and positioning accuracy are equally important.

With two electro-hydraulic booms, fully automated face drilling capabilities and optional iNav Total Station navigation, the tunneling jumbo helps operators prepare and execute drilling rounds with greater accuracy and control.

Renting Sandvik equipment provides the technology, flexibility and support needed to keep demanding underground projects moving forward.

Contact our Sandvik rental experts to discuss the availability of the Sandvik DT923i and find a rental solution that matches your project requirements.