Recycled Rock Drill Tools for Sustainable and Circular Mining (ReRoD)

Important results from the project

All four main objectives (a literature review, evaluation of tribological tests with existing equipment, possibilities with thermodynamic simulations and a full project application) have been achieved. In addition to the scientific objectives, the collaboration in the project has also created a constellation of partners who work effectively together and the increased knowledge of each other´s competencies and resources promotes future collaborations and follow-up projects.

Expected long term effects

The project has created a foundation for developing tribological test methods for research and industry regarding material development of recycled cemented carbide materials and for quality assurance of product performance when implemented in rock drills. Together with thermodynamic simulations, the results will also contribute to increasing the amount of recycled cemented carbide in rock drills, which is an important part of increased resilience and circularity for the mining industry.

Approach and implementation

The project was a collaborative project between Luleå University of Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Sandvik Mining and Construction Tools AB. The project plan contained four work packages with a responsible organisation and person. The schedule was followed but some delay occurred regarding supply of materials but this did not affect the total outcome of the project. Through digital project meetings and three physical meetings, a continuous dialogue was maintained.