Ministry of Science & Technology
CSIR-CIMFR Achieves Milestone with First Trial Blast of Dozer Push Mining Method in India
Posted On: 03 JAN 2025 6:22PM by PIB Delhi
In a groundbreaking achievement for the mining industry, the CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) has successfully conducted the first trial blast for the Dozer Push Mining Method, integrating advanced digital technologies, for the first time in India. This innovative approach developed by CSIR-CIMFR, aims to enhance safety and operational efficiency in mining processes.
The trial was conducted at the PEKB (Parsa East and Kanta Basan) Coal Mine operated by M/s Adani Enterprises Limited in the Udaipur block of Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh. The successful trial was conducted by Adani Natural Resources, one of India’s leading private mining companies.The innovative method is expected to revolutionize mining operations with its focus on streamlining processes and improving safety protocols.
The development is a result of sponsored project being undertaken by the Dhanbad based CSIR-CIMFR on Scientific Study for Designing Deep Hole Cast Blasting at PEKB Opencast Coal Mine. The primary objective of the project was to develop a method that not only optimizes the mining process but also ensures that vibration and flyrock are controlled within safe limits. After two years of extensive deliberations, technical evaluations, and adaptations to local mining conditions, the project has successfully tailored the Dozer Push Mining Method for Indian coal mines.
The developed Dozer Push Mining introduces a paradigm shift by utilizing unmanned, automated machinery for mining operations. The trialinvolved drillingof 108 holes using automated drill machine (man-less), followed bycast/throw blasting using 60 tons of bulk emulsion explosives. Further, the blasted material will be pushed in decoaled area using specially designed, large-sized automated dozer machine.
The dozer push mining method offers a viable alternative to the conventional truck-shovel mining technique or shovel-dumper and dragline methods, with its distinct advantages such as improved efficiency by enabling faster coal recovery, reducing delays caused by adverse weather conditions such as the monsoon season and highly cost-effective, with an estimated 7-10% reduction in operational costs compared to conventional methods. Additionally, it enhances productivity by improving the utilization of dragline machines and reducing unit costs. Moreover, the unmanned operation of the Dozer Push Mining method greatly enhances worker safety, minimizing the risks associated with manual labor and traditional mining techniques.
The first trial was conducted under the leadership of Prof. Arvind Kumar Mishra, Director, CSIR-CIMFR, and the S&T team of CSIR-CIMFR comprising of Dr. Murari P. Roy, Dr. Vivek K. Himanshu, Mr. R. S. Yadav, Mr. Suraj Kumar, and Dr. Ashish K. Vishwakarma. The first trial demonstrated successful drilling and charging operations, precise detonation with minimal environmental impact, and effective material movement using automated machinery.The second phase will involve conducting 8–10 additional trial blasts to refine the blast design further. Final recommendations will focus on optimizing the method for widespread implementation.
The successful implementation of the Dozer Push Mining Method marks a significant advancement for the Indian mining industry. It underscores the potential for adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in mining operations.This breakthrough is poised to revolutionize mining practices, making them more efficient, cost-effective, and safer, ultimately setting a new benchmark in the industry.
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