Dyno Nobel has fired its first wireless detonator blast at the Big Bell gold mine in Western Australia using its CyberDet I technology which keeps workers out of the firing line.
According to Dyno Nobel Asia Pacific president Greg Hayne the wireless blasting will provide improved safety for Westgold.
“We are so pleased to be able to partner with Westgold on the first underground wireless blast ever in Western Australia,” he said.
“The blast was a great success and it’s been really pleasing to hear Westgold’s feedback that it believes CyberDet I will deliver improved safety and efficiency.”
CyberDet I allows miners to work in safer environments during blasting while also providing a shorter blast cycle to increase material mined.
“CyberDet I is Dyno Nobel’s through-the-earth wireless detonator offering, developed on the back of customers telling us it’s technology they need,” Hayne said.
Dyno Nobel is a subsidiary of Incitec Pivot.
Incitec Pivot chief technology officer Robert Rounsley said one of the key advantages of its wireless offering is its focus on delivering safe and innovative products with its customers.
“The flexible nature of our communications antenna provides significant operational advantages for our users,” he said.
“We’re looking forward to showing more of our customers the benefits of CyberDet I. It is just one of our premium technology offerings focused on meeting the needs of our customers.
“We are proud of our customer partnerships which are creating innovative, practical improvements in safety, productivity and environmental performance.”
Westgold’s Big Bell mine is part of its Cue gold assets and is expected to become the largest single mine in the Murchison region.
The wireless blasting required approved from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.