Worn-out carbide gets a second chance

Large DTH bits, small top hammer bits—in fact, drill bits of every size are of interest to Sandvik.

Worn-out carbide is getting a second chance now that the company has built a new recycling station for cemented carbide. Located in Högkammen, Boliden, just outside Skellefteå, it is now open and accepting drill bits. And it’s not only Sandvik’s own bits that are welcome, but those from other suppliers as well.

For Konsta Heino, Acting Territory Manager Nordics, Mining business area, Sandvik, it’s all about making things easier:

“The new facility in Boliden strengthens our service and aftermarket offering and makes it easier for our customers throughout Sweden to take advantage of our recycling solution for worn-out drill bits. It is an important step in our work toward greater circularity and long-term sustainability.”

Collecting worn-out drill bits locally creates a more efficient and sustainable material flow. The recycled cemented carbide is used as raw material in the manufacture of new drill bits, keeping it in a circular system.