Session 7 - Initiation Systems and Blast Data Management
(Room Capitol Ballroom 1-4; Fourth Floor)
25 Jan 20
3:20 PM
-
4:10 PM
Orica will be discussing how the transition from pyrotechnic delays to electronic delay blasting systems can improve safety on the bench while delivering better fragmentation and digability. The discussion will then move onto the introduction of wireless detonators as well as how the storage of systematic drill and blast parameters can lead to further advances in productivity and safety. Pyrotechnic delay detonators, as seen in electric and non-electric initiation, are rapidly being replaced by electronic blasting systems. Most manufacturers offer electronic systems as they have been shown to improved blast outcomes, notably by allowing vibration to be reduced while simultaneously improving the fragmentation and digability of the muckpile. They also provide greater confidence at blast time because each detonator can be tested to ensure that it is ready to fire – unlike the passive pyrotechnic methods where it is only the diligence of the blaster that ensure proper connection and surety of initiation. With electronic detonators, if an issue is found during hook up, steps can be taken to remedy the situation and avoid a misfire or the threat of flyrock. Even with electronic detonators, the biggest reason for issues during hook up is the damage caused to downlines, whether wire or plastic shocktubes. Thus the introduction of a “wireless” initiation system, that precludes any down the hole connection, is another step forward in the evolution of electronic blasting systems and provides a step change in both mining/blasting methods as well on the bench productivity and safety, especially from the effects of lightning. Lastly, the discussion will move to the capture, archiving and analysis of blasting data using the BlastIQ data management system. Capturing the key pre and post blast parameters allows blasters and blasting engineers to ensure their operation is getting the “best bang for its buck” by fine tuning timing and powder factors to optimize fragmentation and muckpile movement.