Modern Mining January 2025

MINING INDABA PREVIEW

BME’s Mobile Manufacturing Unit.

take significant strides in enhancing blasting precision and efficiency. “Our AXXIS Titanium® system supports larger, more controlled blasts, reducing the frequency of interruptions and streamlining operations,” he explained. “This streamlines energy consumption, and also contributes to better rock fragmentation, which reduces energy demands in subsequent loading and crushing phases.” Integrating BME’s Blastmap™III blast planning software further enhances mines’ abilities to optimise blasting outcomes. This has a ripple effect on energy efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions across the mining process. “Our ESG-focused initiatives extend across the value chain,” Hariparsad added, “ensuring that we safeguard the environment and communities while enabling our mining customers to achieve their green goals.” BME’s dual salt emulsions also contribute to this focus, offering a greener alternative to traditional explosives. By reducing nitrate leaching and greenhouse gas emissions, these emulsions reduce risk of environmental damage, and help mines to comply with local regulations and international standards. “The manufacturing process for dual salt emulsions is also more energy-efficient, as it operates at lower temperatures – further reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions,” he explained. Recycling used oil Another aspect of BME’s sustainability portfolio is its pioneering use of recycled oil in its emulsions, effectively removing millions of litres of potentially hazardous waste from the market annually. This innovation prevents water and soil contamination while promoting a circular economy. The company also supports local economies through this initiative, partnering with small businesses to collect and deliver recycled oil. Following an exciting rebranding exercise under the Omnia Group, BME now operates through two core divisions: BME Blasting Solutions and BME Metallurgy. This has given the company a broader impact to strengthen customer’s sustainability efforts across the mining cycle. “Our ability to contribute at both the blasting and mineral processing stages gives us a definite edge in the market,” said Hariparsad. “From breaking rock to optimising mineral recovery, our solutions align with the mining sector’s ESG priorities and help mines meet Scope 1, 2 and 3 emission targets.”

BME Metallurgy warehouse facility.

Global growth BME continues to take this strategy forward through its global growth trajectory. The company’s successful integration with its Indonesian joint venture, along with expanding operations in Canada, Australia and West Africa, highlight its ability to deliver value in diverse markets. “We’re leveraging our expertise to support the growing demand for green metals and other critical resources,” says Hennecke. “BME’s investment in local operations and infrastructure, including the progress in detonator plants in Canada and Australia, underscores our commitment to sustainable growth.” “In Indonesia, the integration with our joint venture partner, MNK, is progressing well,” he said. “Three new contracts were secured in Indonesia, signalling further growth in the region.” The company boosted its in-country presence in Canada by commissioning a non-electric detonator plant, and its organic growth strategy and infrastructure development in Australia is progressing well – with the commissioning of a detonator plant underway. He highlighted that safety underpinned the company’s positive performance, reflected in the way it maintained its Recordable Case Rate (RCR) of zero for the period. This world-class safety record was supported by the ‘Safety for Life’ programme and the collective efforts of the team. “This focus is integral to our sustainability and ESG commitments, which align with Omnia’s efforts in creating a positive and sustainable impact for the planet and communities,” said Hennecke. n

54  MODERN MINING  www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | JANUARY 2025