SMART HYBRID INITIATION STRATEGY IN 28-FOOT UNDERGROUND DEVELOPMENT CYCLES: IMPROVED FEED, OVERBREAK CONTROL, AND COST EFFICIENCY. L. Iparraguirre, O. Llacma, E. Ramírez, Peru (*Presenting author: luis.iparraguirre@orica.com) Mining Technology Mining Division ABSTRACT This technical work presents the collaborative experience between the Engineering team of Underground Technical Services of Orica and the Drilling and Blasting area of the Condestable Mining Company, in the execution of blasting in development and preparation fronts by drilling of long lengths of 28 feet (8.5m), applying a hybrid initiation strategy that combines electronic and non-electric detonators. The project was developed in two consecutive stages: (i) technical adaptation of the drilling rigs to consistently achieve the target length of 8.5 m in each hole, and (ii) standardization of the blasting design by performing controlled cut tests, optimization of the delay sequence and adjustments in the loading scheme, with the purpose of maximizing the advance per shot and reducing the damage in the contours of workings with a typical section of 4.0 m x 4.0 m. After the execution of more than 100 blasts with hybrid initiation in Company Mining Condestable, a 23.7% improvement in the efficiency of the advance was evidenced, increasing from a baseline of 6.13 m to 7.58 m. Likewise, a 43.0% reduction in overbreak was achieved, decreasing from 30% to 17.1%, as a result of the application of low-energy explosives and the implementation of decoupled charge techniques for contour control. These results clearly demonstrate the contribution of the implementation of innovative technologies in underground mining, evidencing notable benefits in safety, operational efficiency and resource optimization. In economic terms, an approximate annual benefit of US$ 420,000 was estimated, aligned with the strategic objectives of productivity and sustainability of the mining operation. Keywords 1. Electronic and non-electric detonators. 2. Development of fronts. 3. Optimization of resources. 4. Hybrid initiation. 5. Innovative technologies. Introduction In underground mining, optimizing feed cycles is a key factor in increasing productivity and reducing operating costs. Within this context, blasting efficiency is an essential component of the development process.
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