PED Version or Leaky Feeder Version?
As there are two versions of the BlastPED System (BlastPED or BlastPED LF); one that operates from the PED System, the other from the leaky feeder system, it may be worthwhile to comment on the two versions. The leaky feeder version works well, but our experience shows that the PED version has been more easily implemented and reliable over time, since:
- The PED system transmits directly through the earth, hence signal is present through out the mine (that is wherever you need to initiate a blast from).
- Leaky feeder is limited to line of sight, and the antenna needs to be kept right up to the working areas, or long runs of bell wire would be required.
- Leaky feeder cable tends to be damaged more often, if this occurred just prior to blast time some areas of the mine may be out of signal range.
- Related to the above, the PED antenna is much shorter than leaky feeder antenna and more easily maintained (it doesn't require constant extensions).
- The PED transmission system set up for remote firing can be used with other PED receiver types; such as personal paging with BeltPED or remote switching fans, pumps, etc with ControlPED.
Mines using BlastPED, such as Cannington, Kanowna Belle, Mt Isa Enterprise, Hilton-George Fisher, and Olympic Dam, all had extensive leaky feeder systems but opted for the PED Version of BlastPED because of the operational advantages mentioned above.
Having said all that, if a mine's leaky feeder is well maintained and has very high availability throughout the mine, it would provide a solid communication back bone for the BlastPED LF system.