The application of pumpable emulsions in narrow-reef stoping
SP Pearton
Pumpable emulsion explosives have been available to surface and
underground massive mining operations for decades, and their unique
properties offer significant advantages in terms of improved safety,
reliability, and performance. However, the benefits of pumpable emulsions
have been unavailable to narrow-reef mining operations due to the lack of
technology necessary for their successful implementation in this
challenging environment. Despite efforts to promote and enhance the
safety and performance of bulk emulsions for narrow-reef stoping, little
research has been undertaken to advance the pump technologies required
for their implementation. This has resulted in a gap in knowledge and
technology, and as a consequence the successful implementation of a
pumpable emulsion system has consistently eluded the narrow-reef
environment.
The purpose of the following investigation was to evaluate the
viability of pumpable emulsion explosives for use in South African
narrow-reef mining operations. By approaching the problem from multiple
perspectives, this research aimed firstly to propose a theoretical
framework and suite of equipment suitable for the implementation of
pumpable emulsions within the narrow-reef environment. Through the
development of this suite of pumpable emulsion technology, tests could be
undertaken on the proposed narrow-reef emulsion formulation and
pumpable emulsion technology to obtain the necessary understanding of
the performance of the system under controlled operating conditions prior
to its implementation in the broader mining industry.
Keywords: blasting technology, explosives, pumpable emulsions.