Success Stories Blasting optimization and reduction of fines
Fine reduction
Located in Minas Gerais (Brazil), this client operates a limestone mine and needed to reduce the generation of fine material during the ore extraction and processing stages. In the pursuit of this objective, it sought out a partnership that could implement strategies to improve the overall efficiency of its operations and the quality of the final product. One of the key measures involved seeking specialized guidance to improve rock fragmentation techniques, with a focus on achieving the optimal particle size range (50 – 800 mm).
We are extremely satisfied with our partnership with Enaex. We are always available for new projects that can, in some way, improve our processes and our results.
Mine Operations Coordinator
Rock fragmentation optimization
In the initial phase of the mineral extraction process, the optimization of rock fragmentation plays a crucial role in reducing the generation of fine particles. With the goal of improving the mining cycle, Enaex conducted a detailed analysis of the blasting method employed by the mine and then recommended a new fragmentation model. This included refining aspects such as timing, mesh size, and stemming. Based on the newly defined parameters, Enaex introduced the Densiex, an innovative blasting agent specifically chosen for the client’s needs due to its low density.
Densiex, as an explosive emulsion with lower energy and VOD, generates a shockwave of lower amplitude and intensity, leading to the formation of larger fragments during the fragmentation process, consequently reducing the fine material.
The benefits of Densiex include:
Expansion of the drilling mesh
Increased recovery of higher value-added product
Over 50% reduction in fine fraction
Thanks to Enaex’s technical work, the client decreased its fine fraction (less than 50 mm) from 20% to 10.6%. The introduction of Densiex exceeded expectations, generating fine fraction at a rate of 9.3% in a 50-mm opening, signifying a 53.5% reduction compared to the baseline (20% passing through 50 mm).
Enaex designs and implements customized and collaborative blasting solutions to add value to its clients’ operations. This was the case with this project, where technical assessment combined with the use of Densiex provided a more profitable end product for the mine.
