Epiroc AB has received a large order for underground mining equipment from Sibanye-Stillwater for use at a platinum mine in South Africa.
Sibanye-Stillwater will use the equipment for platinum mining at the Siphumelele shaft at its Rustenburg operations. The order includes low-profile loaders and utility vehicles for mining applications in narrow veins. Sibanye-Stillwater will use the equipment as part of an ongoing project to mechanise operations at the Siphumelele shaft.
“We are proud to support the Siphumelele operation as it starts to use mechanised equipment,” says Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s President and CEO. “It will strengthen Sibanye-Stillwater’s continuous efforts to be as safe and productive as possible.”
Richard Cox, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Africa operations at Sibanye-Stillwater, says: “The investment in Siphumelele is an important example of our strategic focus on extending mine life and unlocking additional value from our existing ore reserves. Epiroc’s low-profile fleet is well suited to the mining conditions at Siphumelele and will support the safe and efficient execution of this strategically important project.”
The equipment includes the LHD 5.5 LP low-profile loader, UV42 utility vehicles and a range of UV42 cassettes.
The low-profile underground equipment was added to Epiroc’s portfolio following its acquisition of AARD Mining Equipment in 2023. The UV42 utility vehicles are used for general operations, maintenance and logistics underground.
The cassettes are interchangeable work decks that can be mounted on the utility vehicles. They are used for transporting personnel, tools, explosives and other equipment.
Delivery of the equipment will begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.
