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Leading A New Era In Blasting Services

Published by , Editorial Assistant
Global Mining Review,


Pablo Manfredi, Austin Powder, considers the transition of blasting services at Veladero Mine in Argentina.

Leading A New Era In Blasting Services

Located over 4000 m above sea level in San Juan Province, Argentina, Veladero Mine is one of the most significant gold operations in South America. A joint venture between Barrick Mining and Shandong Gold, the mine presents a technically demanding environment due to its high altitude, extreme weather conditions, and complex logistics. In this context, the transition of the blasting services and explosives supply contractor was a critical process requiring rigorous planning, precise execution, and strategic alignment among all stakeholders.

Transition context

On 1 November 2024, Austin Powder Argentina officially assumed responsibility for blasting services at Veladero, replacing the previous provider. The transition followed several months of planning, including weekly coordination meetings, regulatory engagement with the National Agency for Controlled Materials (ANMaC), and active involvement of local authorities and technical teams from both companies. The objective was to ensure uninterrupted operations while fully complying with regulatory and technical requirements.

Implementation process

During the transition phase, four magazines, an ammonium nitrate storage facility, and a silo yard were commissioned. Four mobile manufacturing units (MMUs) were also introduced, inspected, and authorised by regulatory authorities. A key success factor was the integration of technical and operational personnel from the outgoing contractor, ensuring knowledge retention and minimising the learning curve.

Applied technology and technical solutions

Austin Powder introduced the Paradigm® blast design software at Veladero, enabling precise simulation of energy distribution, seismic effects, and expected fragmentation. Four engineers were trained in its use, allowing for optimised drill patterns and reduced overbreak. The company also implemented E*STAR® electronic detonators, offering high timing precision and advanced programming capabilities to improve energy efficiency and minimise vibrations.

Products used at Veladero

The operation is supplied with locally formulated bulk emulsions designed for demanding geotechnical conditions. These emulsions exhibit high water resistance, excellent stability, and controlled energy output, improving fragmentation and reducing downstream energy consumption. MMUs enable on-site mixing and loading, ensuring product freshness, full traceability, and operational safety. Field QA/QC controls verify density, viscosity, and delay times.

Operational culture and strategic alignment

The transition was facilitated by a strong cultural alignment between Austin Powder and Veladero, founded on shared values of safety, integrity, environmental stewardship, and teamwork. Weekly operational meetings, joint safety protocols, and collaborative problem-solving reinforced this alignment. The inclusion of women as equipment operators and continuous training for technical staff reflects the commitment to diversity and local talent development.

 

This is a preview of an article that was originally published in the September 2025 issue of Global Mining Review. Subscribe to Global Mining Review for free to read this article in full and many more here.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/08102025/leading-a-new-era-in-blasting-services/

 
 

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