Orica launch FRAGTrack measurement system
New blast fragmentation measurement technology key to unlocking downstream benefits
ORICA, the world’s largest manufacturers of commercial explosives and innovative blasting systems, have recently released FRAGTrack – their new automated rock sizing measurement technology.
The automated fragmentation-measurement device, delivered as part of Orica’s BlastIQ digital blast optimization platform suite, captures real-time fragmentation measurement data to optimize drill and blast operations, improve downstream unit productivity and track operational performance.
Raj Mathiravedu, Orica’s vice-president of digital solutions, said: ‘Systematic and automated measurement and analysis of blast fragmentation provides a basis for continuous improvement. Rock size distribution or fragmentation is a critical measure for tracking daily drill and blast performance; optimizing blasting, loading and haulage; and maximizing throughput of material during the processing cycle.’
FRAGTrack delivers accurate and reliable fragmentation measurements on both faceshovels and conveyors. The greater sampling frequency permitted by the fully autonomous system provides superior insights, allowing for visualization and comparative analysis of multiple sample data sets – empowering rapid and improved decision-making for customers.
The system also delivers enhanced safety benefits through the removal of manual sampling methods on the bench, keeping workers away from high-risk operational areas.
FRAGTrack uses binocular cameras and an innovative proprietary hybrid 2D/3D image-processing algorithm to overcome the shortcomings of standard methods which generally apply them independently and lack accuracy. Specifically designed for durability in the harshest of operating environments, the hardware can handle temperatures ranging from below –30 degrees C to above 45 degrees C, across a range of rock types and hardness levels.
Mr Mathiravedu continued: ‘FRAGTrack is designed to improve productivity and
optimize drilling and blasting through the integration of fragmentation data into the drill and blast planning and design processes. This creates an opportunity for our customers to significantly improve downstream outcomes.
‘Driven by the needs of our customers to accurately assess blast outcomes, including fragmentation, we continue to invest in developing intelligent and autonomous measurement systems that are easily integrated into existing mine ecosystems.’
In addition to superior system reliability, a comprehensive training, support and customer success programme is delivered by Orica’s global network of technical services engineers and technology experts, ensuring customers realize true blast optimization and the associated downstream benefits.
Widely adopted across Orica’s technical services team today and built on more than 15 years of investment in research and development, the latest version of the technology is now being made available for the first time to customers around the world.
