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BARRICK GOLD CHOSE PED FOR BLASTING AND FAN CONTROL
MINE: ESKAY CREEK
OWNER: BARRICK GOLD
TYPE: GOLD
LOCATION: CANADA, BC
BACKGROUND
Eskay Creek have been assessing methods to improve efficiencies in their blasting operations. After reviewing various remote blasting methods the BlastPED System was chosen. The actual system will use the ultra low frequency PED transmission system to communicate to the remote receiver/exploder units (see picture left).
COMPOSITION
The PED System will use a 3,000 meter (9,900 feet) antenna installed partly on the surface and partly underground. To further enhance the cost benefits of the PED System installation, Eskay Creek have also purchased 40 ControlPEDs to remotely switch their fans.
DESCRIPTION
The BlastPED System allows for remote blast initiation from the surface control room. The ControlPEDs (see picture left) can be operated through the PED transmission system, thus requiring no other communication links to be established to allow remote control of each fan. This means just prior to blasting all fans can be turned off, then immediately after blasting the fans can be switched back on, in sequence, to begin clearing blast fumes before mucking out begins.
JUSTIFICATION
BlastPED was chosen following Eskay Creek engineers had identified that a remote, centralized, blast initiation system would increase productivity and safety at the mine. To streamline the blast process further, required remote control of the fans prior to, and just after blasting. With the PED transmission system already in place, it was simple to use ControlPEDs for this purpose. The ControlPED are simply wired into the fans stop/start contacts and allow the fans to b swicthed on, or off, as required.