• TECHNOLOGY
designed to deliver optimal fragmentation and throw . This quality of blast in turn makes loading and hauling more efficient , with less time spent on breaking oversize rocks .
It also improves the efficiency of the crushing phase . Between them , these early stages of production are among the most energyintensive on any mining site , and a quality blast can significantly reduce energy consumption levels . In this way , the right blasting partner can support mining customers ’ drive towards sustainability goals and a smaller carbon footprint .
Real-time monitoring has been made possible on almost all aspects of mining operations , and blasting is no different . For instance , BME ’ s digital Xplolog system for capturing and analysing data on blast holes and decks has recently been upgraded , leveraging cloud-based computing . Our smart mobile manufacturing units ( MMUs ) use this and our Xplocharge system to automate aspects of blasthole charging . This includes the real-time tracking of emulsion volumes being pumped on the bench by smart trucks , and the comparison to planned volumes .
Greener explosives In a bold step towards further carbon reduction in mining , Omnia and BME recently announced a strategic partnership and minority stake in Swedish-based Hypex Bio Explosives Technology – to further improve the environmental impact of its emulsions . At the forefront of sustainable civil explosives solutions , Hypex has developed a ground-breaking emulsion using hydrogen peroxide . This offers substantially enhanced environmental benefits compared to conventional products .
Hypex has developed the first non-nitrate explosive emulsions in the market and reduced the carbon content by 90 % over traditional sources – a technology with the potential to transform the explosives supply industry . This sustainable , nitrate-free emulsion technology aligns well with our global expansion strategy across Africa and Australasia , as well as into North America – where we have established local production facilities in Canada .
Production pressure As the global economy gears up for the transition to a lower carbon future , mines are at the sharp end of this revolution . There is growing demand for minerals that will feed battery production , and investors and manufacturers alike are looking to Africa for a contribution to meeting those needs . Large regions of the continent remain relatively unexplored , and it is likely that new discoveries will catapult certain countries into exciting miningbased economic growth .
One of the keys for mineral producers will be flexibility , as the demand for different commodities has become volatile as fledgling battery technologies vie for dominance .
44 • African Mining • January 2024 www . africanmining . co . za