EPC-UK launch new remote blast monitoring service

EPC-Metrics to extend the firm’s explosives and blasting service offering in the UK 

TO strengthen their position as a market leader in commercial explosives and blasting services in the UK, EPC-UK have launched EPC-Metrics, a new division that provides a dedicated remote monitoring service for blast vibration and air over-pressure measurement.

The new operation – developed in partnership with Datum Monitoring Services – will help facilitate the immediate access of event data via state-of-the-art fixed monitoring stations, removing the need to travel to or from a monitoring location, and the time-consuming manual downloading of results in the field.

Suitable for both short- and long-term projects, the remote monitoring stations can be installed at both internal/external locations around a site, each with its own customizable and remotely settable trigger level. 

Once triggered these stations automatically transmit data to a cloud-based server with results published immediately to a web portal, providing users with instantaneous access to event information. Once the data has been received, the platform is also capable of sending alerts (texts and emails) to specified recipients.

‘EPC-UK has successfully provided traditional blast monitoring services for a while, but EPC-Metrics takes this offering to another level,’ commented Geoff Adderley, commercial manager for EPC-Metrics.

‘A fixed monitoring location provides a consistent point of reference for reliable results whilst the real-time transmission of data saves our customers both time and resource, as they no longer have to download results in the field. The EPC-Metrics web portal also provides instant access to both current and historic events from a monitored location, providing a comprehensive life-cycle view of a particular site.’

The remote monitoring stations incorporate a GSM modem for wireless data transmission, together with the option for solar power, allowing the service to be provided even in the most isolated of locations.  

EPC-Metrics are supported by EPC-UK’s team of skilled explosives engineers who can provide detailed analysis of captured data, including: site laws and predictive models; as well as the development of innovative blast designs to minimize environmental disturbance.

Mr Adderley concluded: ‘EPC-Metrics offers users a more efficient way of monitoring blast vibration and air over-pressure, aiding the tracking of compliance and providing a greater understanding of site characteristics.’