EXPLOSIVES AND BLASTING
Fired up
Data and digital developments will underpin the next gains in the explosives and blasting process, Dan Gleeson reports
Dyno Nobel’ s surface mining automation work continues to focus on reducing personnel exposure on the bench while maintaining safe and reliable explosives delivery
Just as mining companies have realised that a siloed mentality will only go so far in achieving the productivity and efficiency levels needed to remain competitive, so too have leaders in the explosives and blasting space.
This is seeing more of the providers that have been known for, say, ANFO loading, explosives initiation and detonation solutions look at integrating with processes both upand down-stream of their traditional niches. It is this mindset that is behind Dyno Nobel’ s‘ Drill to Mill’ philosophy – a process to deliver unmatched value by improving impacts across the entire mining operation, including drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, crushing and milling.
By recognising the processes as interconnected rather than standalone steps, even small adjustments can compound to enhance efficiency and create immense value, according to Dyno Nobel.
This mindset was on show earlier this year when the company introduced the newest addition to its electronic initiation offering, the Navus handheld blaster, a lightweight, portable unit that, the company said, allows operations to safely and reliably initiate blasts.
Weighing just 600 grams, Navus can be carried anywhere on site, according to the company, while supporting up to 2,500 m of harness wire for extended set-ups in surface and underground applications. This makes it an ideal solution to initiate NONEL rounds when used with Dyno Nobel’ s electronic DriftShot Starters underground, Dyno Nobel said, explaining that DriftShot Starters eliminate stray currents, radiofrequency interference and static discharge.
Navus can also improve fragmentation and vibration while lowering downstream costs through the combination of timing accuracy and precision of electronic detonators, so even small blasts net big results, the company said.
This holistic philosophy has also underpinned a number of sustainabilityfocused initiatives Dyno Nobel has established in recent years.
Just last year, the global major in commercial explosives confirmed it would trial what it believes to be the world’ s first electric bulk explosive mobile processing unit( MPU) at Fortescue’ s Solomon operations, in Western Australia.
The DYNOBULK ® Electric MPU, like Dyno Nobel’ s other MPUs, is engineered to deliver the explosive product directly to the blasthole but offers a sustainable alternative to conventional diesel-powered vehicles used in the mining and resources sectors.
The DYNOBULK Electric MPU includes a 390 kWh lithium polymer battery, an electrified propulsion system and has regenerative braking technology. It can be recharged quickly in about 45 minutes, reducing downtime and maximising productivity using its 650 kWh fast-charging battery station powered by renewable energy sources such as solar and wind or hydropower – further reducing emissions and supporting off-grid operations.
Advanced emergency protocols, including automatic shutdown systems, thermal management and containment measures, ensure operator and environmental safety. The vehicle is designed to operate safely in extreme mining conditions and meets rigorous industry standards.
Compared with emissions-intensive diesel engines, the electric MPU contributes to workplace health and safety by reducing noise pollution and fumes for workers and operators.
Speaking to IM in late-June, Dyno Nobel Vice President of Process, Plant & Equipment, Global, Paul Terry, said most of the work on this project had been focused on ensuring safe incorporation of the MPU and charging infrastructure into the existing operation at Solomon.
“ This has always been the main challenge,” he said.“ The charging station for the MPU stores a significant amount of energy. Ensuring safe maintenance, operating procedures and conducting the associated training are the current focus.”
He added:“ Enough testing has been done already to show that vehicle performance is not the primary challenge.” Dyno Nobel continues to see interest in electric MPU technology across multiple regions, while saying its immediate
International Mining | AUGUST 2026