Electronic detonators are fast becoming an integral part of effective mining processes across the world, says electronic initiation system designer DetNet marketing director Johann Smit.

“[The benefits of] electronic blast [initiation] are being recognised worldwide,” he says, adding that using electronic detonator technology means increased timing precision, which leads to better blast outcomes, compared with using traditional pyrotechnics.

“In addition to the benefit of accurate real-time programming, the ability to test on bench and the ease of remote firing, produce tangible improvements.”

Smit says, worldwide, safety and environmental awareness are increasingly becoming key drivers for a successful mining operation and, with electronic technology, blasts can be better designed and greater control can be exercised over the environmental impact.

“Electronic detonators, with their encrypted and protected firing systems, provide safeguards against anyone who might want to use them for illicit purposes.”

He adds that DetNet’s electronic initiation systems provide an opportunity to interface with a mine’s information management system. This, in turn, assists mine management in maintaining a constant grasp on data management aspects, such as inventory control and blast productivity, while also quantifying value-adding downline benefits.

Smit says the mining, quarrying and tunnelling industries have reported several benefits owing to DetNet’s electronic initiation systems, including improved and consistent fragmentation, controlled muckpile profiling and placement, and increased loader productivity.

The benefits also include excavation profile and wall stability improvements, reduced crusher wear and increased crusher throughput, improved safety and control and an increased ability to manage environmental impact associated with blasting.

“Through innovation and the use of technology, DetNet is delivering on its core purpose of making mining more sustainable,” explains Smit, adding that the company provides its partners, such as explosives supplier and manufacturer AEL Mining Services and commercial explosives company Dyno Nobel, with the means to improve the efficiency of their blasts through accurate timing and control.

DetNet’s entire range of hardware, software and electronic detonators is developed at the company’s factory and is rigorously tested to ensure the highest levels of robustness and safe operation, states Smit.