Introduction
Blasting, the primary method for rock breakage in mining and construction, relies fundamentally on initiation systems to trigger explosive charges. These systems have evolved significantly over time, progressing from rudimentary methods like safety fuses and blasting caps to more sophisticated electric and non-electric detonators. Electric detonators utilize an electric current passed through a resistance wire, while non-electric systems, such as shock tube detonators (commonly known as NONEL), use a shock wave transmitted through a plastic tube to initiate the detonator. In this article, we will provide more details on the contribution of electronic detonators to rock fragmentation and mine productivity.
Defining electronic detonators (EDs)
The most recent advancement in initiation technology is the electronic detonator (ED). Unlike their predecessors which rely on pyrotechnic compounds for delay timing, EDs incorporate sophisticated internal electronics, typically including a microchip, a capacitor for energy storage, and a programmable electronic timer. This electronic control allows for highly accurate and precisely programmable delay times, often adjustable in one-millisecond increments (“Detonator,” 2025). The core function and primary advantage of EDs lie in significantly improving the accuracy of the delay time compared to conventional pyrotechnic delays and offering unprecedented flexibility through on-site programmability. This programmability allows blast designers to assign specific, unique delay times to individual detonators within a blast pattern right before firing (7.Technical-Development.Pdf, n.d.).
Technical specifications of electronic detonators
Electronic detonators fundamentally overcome the limitations of pyrotechnic scatter by replacing the chemical delay element with a digital timing circuit controlled by a microchip.9 This allows for exceptionally high levels of accuracy and precision. The precision, or deviation from the programmed time, is often measured in microseconds or fractions of a percent. For example, specifications cite accuracy (scatter) as low as ± 0.1 ms (Cardu et al., 2013), +/- 0.13 ms or +/- 0.01% of the programmed delay, +/- 0.02% of programmed delay or +/- 1 ms, or +/- 0.005% to +/- 0.03% deviation (Precision and Efficiency—from How Data Is Collected to How Blasts Are Initiated, n.d.). This level of precision is orders of magnitude higher than that achievable with shock tube or electric pyrotechnic detonators.
Furthermore, ED systems offer a vast range of programmable delay times, extending up to 15,000 ms (15 seconds), 20,000 ms (20 seconds), or even 26,000 ms (26 seconds) in some systems. This wide range, combined with the fine 1 ms programmability, provides unparalleled flexibility in blast design.
Fragmentation Improvements
Precision timing control
Electronic detonators allow programmable delays in 1 ms increments, enabling optimized stress interaction between blast holes. This precision reduces oversized boulders and fines, creating a more uniform fragment size distribution. For example, trials showed a 24% reduction in maximum block size and 25% lower mean fragment size compared to pyrotechnic detonators.
Reduced delay scatter
With timing accuracy as low as ±0.1 ms, electronic systems eliminate unintended overlap between charges, ensuring sequential rock movement. This minimizes energy waste and improves fracture networks.
Vibration management
Destructive interference techniques using precise delays lower peak particle velocities by up to 50%, reducing structural damage risks while maintaining fragmentation quality.
Downstream Productivity Gains
Excavation efficiency
- Dragline cycle times decreased by 25% due to easier bucket filling.
- Loader/shovel productivity increased by 15-20% from reduced dig resistance.
Crusher performance
- Throughput rose 6-10% with optimized feed sizing.
- Energy consumption per ton dropped 6-10% due to fewer jams and consistent feed.
Cost reductions
- Secondary breakage costs fell 30-40% from fewer boulders.
- Drill patterns expanded 10-15% without compromising fragmentation, lowering drilling costs.
- Blast preparation time decreased 20% through programmable delays and in-situ testing.
Operational safety
Two-way communication and fail-safe designs reduced misfire risks by 60% compared to pyrotechnic systems, minimizing downtime from blast-related incidents.
Conclusion
Electronic detonators significantly enhance blast precision, enabling better rock fragmentation and more uniform particle sizing. This leads to improved excavation and crusher efficiency, ultimately boosting overall mine productivity. Their programmable timing and minimal delay scatter reduce energy waste and secondary breakage. Cost savings and enhanced safety further strengthen their value in modern blasting operations. As such, electronic detonators represent a key advancement in optimizing the entire drill-and-blast value chain.
Reference
7.Technical-development.pdf. (n.d.). Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://efee.eu/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/7.Technical-development.pdf
Cardu, M., Giraudi, A., & Oreste, P. (2013). A review of the benefits of electronic detonators. Rem: Revista Escola de Minas, 66, 375–382. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0370-44672013000300016
Detonator. (2025). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Detonator&oldid=1283757446
Precision and efficiency—From how data is collected to how blasts are initiated. (n.d.). Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://www.orica.com/news-media/2024/efficient-blasting-precision-and-efficiency-from-how-data-is-collected-to-how-blasts-are-initiated
