Blasting conference focus on new technology

Topics range from US expert Robert McClure, president of R. A. McClure, Inc. (RAM) on explosive disposal technology, to Randy Wheeler, president of White Industrial Seismology, Inc. talking on the use of software in signature analysis and vibration simulation. Placing the future of the industry in a broader perspective will be Dr Roelof Botha, now a familiar face at this event, giving an outlook on the South African economy.

BME will also offer its own technical insights with Refiloe Kekana - responsible for technical work for bulk clients in the Witbank and Middelburg area - talking about the impact of horizontal planar structures on blasting results, while Tony Rorke, director of blasting technology at BME will be addressing the application of Blastmap III. Deon Pieterse, who is responsible for the bulk technical team within BME, will share his insights on the application of emulsion explosives, while Peter van Jaarsvelt, blasting technology manager for BME in West Africa will discuss HEF emulsions in reactive ground.

Quality blasting is crucial

"As a leading player in the field of blasting in Africa's mining industry, we know how crucial the quality of blasting is to the success of any mining operation," said BME marketing manager Hayley Wayland. "We are also aware that declining levels of blasting skills are costing the mining industry millions of rands annually in lost production."

It is precisely for this reason that BME host this important event each year, as part of the company's contribution to education and information-sharing in the use of new blasting technologies. As in the past the event is free to all BME customers and is open to explosives users in the mining sector with an interest in blasting technology, the environment and current events.

For more information on the conference, go to www.bmeconference.com where delegates can confirm their attendance online.