In April 2026, Fortis Mining Engineering & Manufacturing was contracted to provide specialized equipment, technical expertise, and labour for a complex hoist rope replacement at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in South Dakota.
Collaborating closely with the South Dakota Science & Technology Authority (SDSTA) and the SURF Ross Shaft team, Fortis supported the replacement of approximately 6,100 feet of wire rope on the Ross Cage hoist. Successfully executing this project required meticulous planning, advanced equipment, and skilled personnel to safely handle 27,000 pounds of wire rope.
Hoist rope replacements at this scale demand more than just removing an old rope and installing a new one. The operation involves carefully coordinated equipment, handling methods, and sequencing to ensure safe, controlled installation. For this project, Fortis mobilized cable reeling machines, large-diameter sheaves, socketing equipment, specialized rope-handling tools, and all necessary materials. Beyond supplying equipment, Fortis brought extensive hands-on experience. Our combination of technical know-how and specialized tooling enabled effective collaboration with site personnel throughout the project.
About SURF
The Sanford Underground Research Facility, located at the former Homestake Mine in Lead, South Dakota, provides researchers with access to a deep underground environment that shields sensitive experiments from cosmic radiation. Scientists at SURF explore fundamental questions in physics, biology, geology, and engineering. The facility includes more than 370 miles of tunnels, hosts numerous scientific experiments, and partners with organizations worldwide.
The Ross Shaft is a vital component of SURF’s underground infrastructure, providing access nearly a mile below ground and enabling the movement of people and equipment. The newly installed rope has a higher rated breaking strength of 285,000 pounds, improving safety margins and supporting future facility upgrades, such as a planned double-decker cage.
For more information on the Ross Cage hoist rope replacement and the work by SURF crews, visit the Sanford Underground Research Facility’s website for the full project.