Justification of blasting efficiency using electronic systems in comparison with non-electric primers

Carrying out large-scale blasting using non-electric primers in surface mining is concerned with a number of deficiencies, one of which being the error in borehole and surface delay times. As a consequence, the design blasting system is compromised, the face blasting rates are affected, and the rock mass fragmentation quality goes down. Due to their advantage in the triggering accuracy, the electronic blasting systems ensure absolute control over the execution of large-scale blasting, reduce the negative impact of blasting operations on residential areas near the surface mine and improve the quality of rock mass fragmentation. Electronic blasting systems enable the development of new ways to execute blasting, for example, though selecting the face blasting rates, which in turn increases the rock mass fragmentation quality and reduces dilution. The paper presents comparative indicators of bias in the nominal delay times of various non-electric primers and electronic blasting systems, discusses the components and designs of electronic detonators, and provides a number of advantages of the electronic systems in conditioning of the the preparation of blasted rock. A conclusion is made that blasting with electronic detonators and the use of their advantages will help to reduce the specific consumption of explosives and the scope of drilling operations due to larger blasthole patterns.