Sandvik acquires Australian Hydramatic Engineering

Hydramatic is a leading designer and manufacturer of specialized, innovative drilling/bolting machines under the brand ARO, used for the installation of strata control in underground mines and tunnels. Based on strong engineering performance, good products and high R&D competence, Hydramatic has developed a strong market position in Australia and is active in the main coal producing markets of South Africa, the US, Russia, UK and China. For Sandvik, this acquisition offers an expanded product offering and operational synergies allowing for further growth and product development through R&D cooperation and access to Sandvik's existing global sales network.

Hydramatic's head office and manufacturing facilities are located in Redhead, Australia and other units are established in South Africa, Germany, the US and UK. In 2006 Hydramatic had sales of about SEK 330 M and the total number of employees is about 290.

The Hydramatic business will be integrated into the Sandvik Mining and Construction operations and be consolidated as of 28 February, 2007.

The President of Sandvik Mining and Construction, Lars Josefsson, says the acquisition is in line with the Group's long-term strategy of continuing growth.

"Hydramatic is an innovative company with a strong market position, and by acquiring it we intend to grow the business and further develop the product globally. The acquisition also extends Sandvik's underground mining product offering and allows for global distribution through our existing sales channels".

"The acquisition gives the Hydramatic business more opportunity to grow by providing access to the resources of a world leading mining equipment group," says Lars Josefsson.

Sandviken, 28 February 2007

Sandvik AB; (publ)