Overcoming a critical challenge on a slope with imminent risk of collapse

Rock fragmentation with Plasma 4TH® non-explosive technology

  • Customer : ELBL Fragmentação de Rochas |
  • Pain point : Blast nearby civil infrastructure |
  • Market segment : Civil Construction |
  • Solution : Plasma 4TH® |
  • Location : Itabirito | Minas Gerais | Brazil |
Situation

An imminent risk, a necessary course of action

During the execution of the tailings dam containment works at a mine located in Minas Gerais, Brazil, a large rock slope presented an imminent threat of collapse. This situation could have a significant impact on operations, as well as endangering employees and nearby infrastructure.

Challenge

Performing rock removal work under critical ground height conditions and risk of collapse. In this context, time was of the essence, and the client could not wait for a traditional solution.

Customer Testimonial

“At the beginning of the project, I was very worried we might not be able to provide a solution in time, as it was an unprecedented situation. We were working against the clock, and as time went on, more difficulties emerged along the way. Enaex’s support during the planning and supervision of the Plasma 4TH® rock fragmentation service was crucial to our success. When the time finally came, and the firing button was pressed, and the dust from the rock removal settled, I observed the excellent outcome and the spontaneous joy of everyone involved in the project. It was a very gratifying feeling of a job well done.”

Hilton Lanna,
Managing Director ELBL

Solution

Using Plasma 4TH® to overcome critical challenges

The operational complexity and urgency demanded an innovative approach to ensure the technical, economic, and socio-environmental
feasibility of the project. Enaex proposed the application of Plasma 4TH®, a non-explosive rock fragmentation technology that does not require special permits for operation. Plasma 4TH® offered several advantages for this scenario, including lower handling risks, minimal need for evacuations in the vicinity, while also producing low vibrations and noise levels, thereby minimizing impact on the environment.

The specialized team of Plasma 4TH® Brazil led the planning of the rock removal along with safety and HSECQ assessment. Given that the slope height prevented the team from directly accessing the restricted area, it was necessary to employ Virtual Reality (VR) technology and real-time radio communication to remotely supervise the process.

Key features
Results

Safe rock fragmentation with state-of-the-art technology

The rock fragmentation exceeded the client’s expectations in terms of effectiveness, without causing damage to nearby structures. The entire process was carried out safely, precisely, and within the stipulated timeframe, preventing the collapse of the slope.

Stronger Bonds

Enaex achieved this solution through a 35-day process of planning and contracting, followed by 5 days of drilling and 2 days of execution. This outcome demonstrates Enaex’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing agility and safety while meeting the needs of its clients.

About Us

At Enaex, our purpose is to humanise mining by having a positive impact on all aspects of the blasting process.

We know that life is the most precious thing on the planet. That’s why we put people first to ensure the well-being of our teams, our broader communities, and the environment.

With a proven track record of providing the global mining industry with flexible, tailor-made blasting solutions, Enaex is the preferred blasting solutions partner.