Maintaining surrounding rock structure integrity, reducing blast vibrations and limiting flyrock
Strategic expansion in complex terrain
The Booysendal Platinum mine, located in the province of Mpumalanga, South Africa, and operated by Northam Platinum LTD, is actively engaged in the extraction of platinum. With the objective to break away Portals from surface in poor ground conditions by maintaining surrounding rock structure integrity and limiting vibrations to safeguard nearby structures, Northam Platinum LTD embarked on the development of the “Booysendal Central Merensky 1” operations as part of its strategy to meet future growth plans. The geology of the region, with its unique characteristics, necessitated precise blasting practices to ensure portal blasting is conducted effectively to allow for the safe and efficient access to enable the mine to reach the mineral deposit.
“The project was completed in good time as well as that it was done safely. The work done was excellent as always.”
Bertie van Stryp,
Production Mine Overseer
Combining specialist human resources with 1st world products to create winning solution.
To address these challenges, Enaex Africa introduced a tailored solution:
Advancing safely with accuracy
The primary aim of the project was to confidently establish three distinct portals, each extending at least 10m, while safely initiating blasts with Daveytronic Electronic detonators. The precise techniques applied enhanced the integrity of the highwall, sidewalls, and hanging walls throughout the project area and guaranteed a misfire-free operation. This approach matched and even surpassed the smooth wall blasting results from the Central Merensky Project. Achieving these goals bolstered structural safety, minimized potential production losses, and ensured seamless operations for the entire workforce.
The project showcased Enaex’s expertise, offering the client significant operational and financial benefits. The Portal provides access to the mineral resources of the mine and ensures that life of mine can be extended, creating jobs for employees and providing safe access to the underground workings. No damage meant the client did not lose any production, the other mines on the property could still be in operation, and the overall relationship between Enaex and Northam Platinum was made stronger.
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.