Orica Automates Blast Hole Charging to Improve Consistency, Safety

Analysis:
Mining has always been dangerous work. Orica has been supplying explosives to the Australian goldfields for more than 150 years, and is a global leader in blasting and productivity solutions. The Avatel is a state-of-the-art machine that combines all of Orica’s knowledge and experience with the latest in robotic technology.

Avatel will help reduce errors and improve the consistency in the charging process while making one of the most dangerous tasks in mining safer for the charging operator. The Avatel looks like a mechanical incarnation of Edward Scissorhands, and mechanizes the entire charging process. The entire machine can be operated by a single operator, which helps to eliminate any additional miners from the immediate area during the charging process.

More people are killed or injured each year in the mining industry than any other industry, so innovations like the Orica Avatel help to save lives and reduce risks while improving productivity. A win-win for everyone involved. – Mike Oitzman

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