Dyno Nobel’s technology produces first ever underground wireless detonator blast in WA

07.06.2021

Dyno Nobel, a business of Incitec Pivot Limited, has completed the first ever underground wireless detonator blast in Western Australia, utilising Dyno Nobel’s groundbreaking wireless technology, CyberDet I™.

The blast on Tuesday 1 June 2021 at Westgold’s Big Bell underground gold mine, saw 34 CyberDet I detonators fired, producing outstanding results, including a well fragmented muckpile. Big Bell is a premier asset in Westgold’s Cue region portfolio of mines and the blast was undertaken following approval from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS).

Dyno Nobel Asia Pacific President Greg Hayne said the blast in WA’s mid-west region was a significant milestone for Dyno Nobel’s wireless detonator offering.

“We are so pleased to be able to partner with Westgold on the first underground wireless blast ever in WA,” Mr Hayne said.

“The blast was a great success and it’s been really pleasing to hear Westgold’s feedback that it believes CyberDet I will deliver improved safety and efficiency.”

CyberDet I is designed to allow operators to work in a safer environment during the blast loading process. The technology also facilitates a shorter blast cycle, providing the potential to increase the number of tonnes mined.

“CyberDet I is Dyno Nobel’s through-the-earth wireless detonator offering, developed on the back of customers telling us it’s technology they need,” Mr Hayne said.

Incitec Pivot Limited Chief Technology Officer Robert Rounsley said CyberDet I highlighted the Group’s commitment to advanced technology development.

“One of the key advantages of our wireless offering is its portable design. The flexible nature of our communications antenna provides significant operational advantages for our users,” Mr Rounsley said.

The next step for CyberDet I will be further trials in Australia, with a number of customers already interested in the wireless technology.

“We’re looking forward to showing more of our customers the benefits of CyberDet I. It is just one of our premium technology offerings focused on meeting the needs of our customers.

“We are proud of our customer partnerships which are creating innovative, practical improvements in safety, productivity and environmental performance,” Mr Hayne said.

™CyberDet is a registered trademark of DetNet South Africa (Proprietary) Limited.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT

Debbie Guest
Group Corporate Affairs Manager
m: +61 455 745 639
e: debbie.guest@incitecpivot.com.au