In mining procurement, there is a dangerous temptation to view explosives as a commodity. The logic goes: "Buy cheaper ANFO, save money." However, experienced Operations Directors know that mining blasting is actually an energy investment in the rock.
This article debunks the myth of "cheap blasting" and explores the concept of Mine-to-Mill optimization.
The Myth: Low Powder Factors Save Cash
Reducing the powder factor (kg/m³) saves money on the blast bench. The Reality: It leaves the rock coarse and poorly fragmented.
The Hidden Costs of Poor Blasting
When you cut corners on the blast, the cost simply migrates downstream—often with interest.
Excavation Inefficiency: Digging poorly fragmented muck piles increases loader cycle times and wear on bucket teeth.
