Orica’s lead-free non-electric detonator range now fully available
Exel Neo marks pivotal step in company’s commitment to sustainability and the environment
FOLLOWING last year’s successful launch of Orica’s ground-breaking Exel Neo – the world’s first fully lead-free non-electric detonator range, Orica’s manufacturing facility in Gyttorp, Sweden, has achieved a significant milestone by transitioning all capsule production to Exel Neo, marking a pivotal step in the company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Neo represents Orica’s dedication to offering sustainable and technologically advanced initiation systems products. The Exel Neo range embodies the proven non-primary explosives detonator (NPED) technology that Orica have used over the past three decades, and just like the standard Exel brand, the newly introduced Exel Neo range is tailored for applications in civil infrastructure, surface mining and quarrying, and underground mining operations.
However, the new, fully lead-free product range does not contain any substances of very high concern (SVHC) according to the European Union’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. Therefore, no lead or lead oxides are released to the environment when the detonators are consumed in the blast.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the product’s launch, Abhisek Roy, Orica’s vice-president of marketing for EMEA, said: ‘This is an exciting time for Orica, with the full launch of our Exel Neo range and the strong customer support we have received from all over Europe. This product innovation reinforces Orica’s reputation as a forward-thinking, innovative, and environmentally conscious company dedicated to continuously delivering cutting-edge products to the market.’
Peter Reinders, Orica’s marketing manager for initiating systems/electronic blasting systems in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), added: ‘The creation of the lead-free detonator is a direct response to the increasing worldwide demand for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. By leveraging the established NPED technology, a smooth shift in manufacturing has been achieved while maintaining the product’s quality, performance, and ease of use. Our customers can be reassured that our new Exel Neo range offers the same reliability and effectiveness.’
