The use of electronic blasting systems at the M. I. M. George Fisher mine

摘要

This paper describes the use of fully programmable electronic blasting systems to target optimum stope design at the new M.I.M (Mount Isa Mines) George Fisher Project, Queensland, Australia. By introducing novel stoping methods afforded by Electronic Blasting, the George Fisher Project is seeking to deliver mining advantages to optimise safety, productivity and cost at this new operation. Trials have indicated that electronic blasting can provide the flexibility and timing accuracy to fire large blasts with greater control and less risk. Analysis of accelerometer records confirmed functioning of the electronic detonators within 0.1% of programmed delay times. Early blasting results show that significant potential exists to introduce the 'new' firing system into George Fisher production.