Specialist mining services provider Aquirian Limited’s (ASX: AQN) wholly-owned subsidiary TBS Mining Solutions Pty Ltd has commenced commercialisation of its revolutionary Collar Keeper System.
TBS is onsite in the Northern Goldfields of WA with 60% of the minesite’s Epiroc T45 drill rigs converted for an extended commercial trial.
While the ongoing Covid19 outbreak in WA delayed access to site, Greg Patching, Executive Director Business Development and Innovation, said the company is thrilled to be finally in the field commencing the transition for our customers onto the Collar Keeper System.
“This marks a major milestone for the development and commercialisation of the system.
“TBS has also received strong interest from several overseas mining companies and received its first orders for a commercial trial to commence in Zambia in mid-late May.
“The company continues to work on the development of the Collar Keeper System including expanding the range of drill rig applications and mechanisation of the system which will, in time, provide a pathway towards full automation for our clients worldwide.”
About the Collar Keeper System
The Collar Keeper System (patent pending) is the combination of a mechanised guide that allows the application of the existing Collar Keeper product to improve blasthole quality control across the mining industry.
This technology represents an exciting step change in managing blast hole quality and provides a unique solution for clients to a range of different blasting environments with global applications.
The initial focus for the technology will be on mines in Western Australia (WA) operating with smaller diameter holes in challenging ground conditions, where high-cost and time-consuming practices are currently used.
The traditional method of collar piping has not changed in over 40 years and introduces hazards as well as cost, time and quality issues resulting in variable blast outcomes for clients.
In addition to the direct poor blasting outcomes, this leads to further downstream costs in load and haul, and the processing of mined material.
The Collar Keeper System has application in drill & blast operations globally.
