Success Stories Maximizing high wall stability
Mitigating Risks
In Kathu, Northern Cape, South Africa, United Manganese of the Kalahari (UMK) manages an open pit mine dedicated to manganese extraction. A significant concern for UMK has been the instability of the final high wall on the western flank of their J-Pit, as highlighted by the Department of Mining Resources. This condition not only posed a considerable safety risk for the miners but was further complicated by the region’s inherent geology marked by joints, weak planes, and water seepage. The previous blasting methods contributed to the situation, impacting the high wall’s integrity, causing overbreaks, crest losses, and a noticeable inter-row timing delay, intensifying the operational risks.
Mine was highly satisfied with the first results.
Barbarah Bokhitleleng, Technical Manager
Pre-split Blasting Technique
Recognizing the importance of the situation, Enaex introduced a specialized pre-split blasting practice tailored for the final pit boundaries of UMK. The process involved:
Enhancing safety
The success rate of good pre-split discipline is measured against the visibility of pre-split barrels and overall condition and stability of the high wall. A success rate of 55% visibility of pre-split barrels was evident after the implementation of the first approved blasting parameters. This was a significant leap from prior conditions, introducing a markedly safer and more efficient operational environment for UMK.
Enaex’s commitment to solving UMK’s challenges was evident throughout the process, ensuring not only the application of the pre-split blasting technique but also continuous oversight and optimization efforts.
