Strategic approach to highwall improvement and blast energy management with pre-splitting technique

  • Customer : UMK |
  • Pain point : Highwall improvement | Optimize your blasts |
  • Market segment : Open-Pit |
  • Solution : Pre-split designing |
  • Location : South Africa |
Situation

Located in Kathu, Northern Cape, South Africa, the United Manganese of the Kalahari (UMK) oversees an open-pit mine specializing in manganese extraction. They faced significant challenges with the integrity of their highwalls, particularly concerning their health and safety standards during operations. Recognizing these issues, UMK approached Enaex, seeking expertise on potential methods to enhance the conditions of their highwalls, especially on the southern and western flanks.

Challenge

Excessive back break, crest loss from blasting operations, and the resultant poor highwall conditions—manifesting as key blocks and overhanging blocks—posed health and safety risks to both the workforce and equipment.

Customer Testimonial

The pre-split trial was a success.

Maimane Joe Mosupyoe, General Manager

Solution

Enaex recommended the use of perimeter blasting techniques, including pre-splitting and buffer applications, to improve the conditions of the southern and western highwalls. By incorporating these techniques into their block designs, the goal was to minimize the impact of explosive energy on the highwalls. This method not only ensured increased stability and safety but also addressed UMK’s primary concerns regarding highwall conditions.

Key features
Results

The adoption of the pre-splitting technique by Enaex led to tangible improvements in UMK’s operations:

Stronger Bonds

Enaex’s commitment to understanding and addressing UMK’s specific challenges showcased the strength of their partnership. Better final wall conditions were realized on the pre-split trials. This in turn meant that the health and safety concern of poor highwall conditions was alleviated.