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Blasting Operations Management of Impacts

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Ground vibrations, air over-pressure, fly-rock, generation of fines and dust, blasting fumes, damage to remaining rock and in some cases leaching of chemicals in the blast holes and polluting ground water are some of the undesirable impacts associated with blasting which collectively affect the surrounding environment adversely.

  • Management of environmental impact of any blast depends on the following:
  • Blast design – this is in the operator’s control.
  • Design to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory limits and standards
  • Identification of significant factors having impact
  • Geology, not under operators control but can be taken into account
  • Weather, not under operators control and cannot easily be taken into account.
  • Effective implementation of the blast design
  • Accurate measurements and assessment before, during and after blast.
  • Blast and vibration records which can be retrieved, assessed and analysed.

It is possible to manage impacts of blasting operations by effective implementation of the design and the ability to evaluate the effect of any minor variations from the blast design that may become necessary to achieve a practical outcome to achieve desired goals. Most problems arising from blasting are related to the response of people to the operation. These complaints are often connected with the fear of structural damage despite the fact that vibration levels are usually way below those likely to cause even cosmetic damage.
Control Strategies for Environmental Impact
Essentially, the energy released by the explosives is useful for fragmentation, displacement and movement of broken rock whereas wasteful part of energy causes so many other impacts such as ground vibration, airblast and flyrock. A blast with poor fragmentation is likely to have a higher than expected environmental impact. The key therefore is the effective blast design and proper implementation for both efficient blasting and environmental impact control.Blast Design
A good, efficient blast design optimises fragmentation and movement whilst keeping environmental impact to a minimum. Conventional blasting techniques being adopted in India are leading to both uneconomic operations and sometime closure of mines. Blasts in surface mines are small sized, resulting in frequent blasting, poorer fragmentation and involving more manpower. Often environmental consequences of blasting such as vibrations, noise, flyrock and dust are causing hardships to mining industry. This is impacting mining industry in a big way. In India, often huge amount of compensation is paid for relocation of villages located in close vicinity of mines. However, due to improper control on the ground vibrations, airblast and flyrock, relocation does not reduce complaints and results in poor image of mining. However, trend abroad is to carryout large blasts thus reduce the frequency of blasts while controlling all the impacts which may result in complaints for ground and air vibrations, fly rock and dust hazard.
Blast Auditing
Good blast design is worthless if it is not implemented and an audit system helps to ensure the continuity of the process. Pre-blast monitoring should also be done cautiously to check deviation in the values of design parameters from the actual ones. All details like hole position, hole depths, nature and condition of holes, type and quantity of explosives; initiation system, sequence and delay timings are to be recorded. Prior to the introduction of new methods & technologies as working tools in mines, it was not possible to directly measure inaccessible locations on rock faces. With the introduction of laser profiler and blast hole logger, on-site collection and analysis of information related to blast geometry is possible.
Public relations
Studies have shown that initiating a good programme of public relations is the most effective way of reducing complaints about blasting. Programme content related to blasting activities could include notification of blasting, signals, direct notification, monitoring at nearby properties, education about the blasting process and environmental impact.
Blast Information Record
In India, monitoring and assessing blasting results is still in a qualitative form and is performed manually. Blast related data are recorded in the form of hard copy and often insufficient data are recorded.
TrainingTraining allows company employees to have confidence in their ability to use the system effectively to help achieve the two things blasters crave – efficient, productive blasts and, the most valuable commodity of all, peace of mind. If scientifically designed blasts are properly executed then all hazards could be controlled and efficiency could be improved.
ConclusionsThe challenge before the mining industry is to make changes in the presently used blasting technology. These involve detailed blast preparations, design of blasts according to conditions and desired results, proper execution of blasts and then monitoring of the performance during and after the blasts to optimise the results. All these need use of new tools to improve blasting technology. The developments in the areas of planning and design of blasts, drill monitoring, drill hole deviation, laser profiling systems, tools for monitoring during and after the blasts are needed. The innovative practices in the area of drilling, new bulk loading of explosives, performance measurement and the evaluation of blast outcome and productivity need to be adopted. Blast information need to be available online for easy retrieval and analysis. Indigenous computer aided design and analysis tools must become available for predicting and mitigating blasting hazards such as ground vibrations and airblast. Risk analysis and risk management steps need to be implemented. A mechanism is needed for professional training in this skilled technology.

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Economy & Market

Power Build’s Core Gear Series

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A deep dive into Core Gear Series of products M, C, F and K, by Power Build, and how they represent precision in motion.

At the heart of every high-performance industrial system lies the need for robust, reliable, and efficient power transmission. Power Build answers this need with its flagship geared motor series: M, C, F and K. Each series is meticulously engineered to serve specific operational demands while maintaining the universal promise of durability, efficiency, and performance.

Series M – Helical Inline Geared Motors
Compact and powerful, the Series M delivers exceptional drive solutions for a broad range of applications. With power handling up to 160kW and torque capacity reaching 20,000 Nm, it is the trusted solution for industries requiring quiet operation, high efficiency, and space-saving design. Series M is available with multiple mounting and motor options, making it a versatile choice for manufacturers and OEMs globally.

Series C – Right Angled Heli-Worm Geared Motors
Combining the benefits of helical and worm gearing, the Series C is designed for right-angled power transmission. With gear ratios of up to 16,000:1 and torque capacities of up to 10,000 Nm, this series is optimal for applications demanding precision in compact spaces. Industries looking for a smooth, low-noise operation with maximum torque efficiency rely on Series C for dependable performance.

Series F – Parallel Shaft Mounted Geared Motors
Built for endurance in the most demanding environments, Series F is widely adopted in steel plants, hoists, cranes and heavy-duty conveyors. Offering torque up to 10,000 Nm and high gear ratios up to 20,000:1, this product features an integral torque arm and diverse output configurations to meet industry-specific challenges head-on.

Series K – Right Angle Helical Bevel Geared Motors
For industries seeking high efficiency and torque-heavy performance, Series K is the answer. This right-angled geared motor series delivers torque up to 50,000 Nm, making it a preferred choice in core infrastructure sectors such as cement, power, mining and material handling. Its flexibility in mounting and broad motor options offer engineers the freedom in design and reliability in execution.
Together, these four series reflect Power Build’s commitment to excellence in mechanical power transmission. From compact inline designs to robust right-angle drives, each geared motor is a result of decades of engineering innovation, customer-focused design and field-tested reliability. Whether the requirement is speed control, torque multiplication or space efficiency, Radicon’s Series M, C, F and K stand as trusted powerhouses for global industries.

http://www.powerbuild.in
Call: +919727719344

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Economy & Market

Conveyor belts are a vital link in the supply chain

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Kamlesh Jain, Managing Director, Elastocon, discusses how the brand delivers high-performance, customised conveyor belt solutions for demanding industries like cement, mining, and logistics, while embracing innovation, automation, and sustainability.

In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, efficient material handling isn’t just a necessity—it’s a competitive advantage. As industries such as mining, cement, steel and logistics push for higher productivity, automation, and sustainability, the humble conveyor belt has taken on a mission-critical role. In this exclusive interview, Kamlesh Jain, Managing Director, Elastocon, discusses how the company is innovating for tougher terrains, smarter systems and a greener tomorrow.

Brief us about your company – in terms of its offerings, manufacturing facilities, and the key end-user industries it serves.
Elastocon, a flagship brand of the Royal Group, is a trusted name in the conveyor belt manufacturing industry. Under the brand name ELASTOCON, the company produces both open-end and endless belts, offering tailor-made solutions to some of the most demanding sectors such as cement, steel, power, mining, fertiliser, and logistics. Every belt is meticulously engineered—from fabric selection to material composition—to ensure optimal performance in tough working conditions. With advanced manufacturing facilities and strict quality protocols, Elastocon continues to deliver high-performance conveyor solutions designed for durability, safety, and efficiency.

How is the group addressing the needs for efficient material handling?
Efficient material handling is the backbone of any industrial operation. At Elastocon, our engineering philosophy revolves around creating belts that deliver consistent performance, long operational life, and minimal maintenance. We focus on key performance parameters such as tensile strength, abrasion resistance, tear strength, and low elongation at working tension. Our belts are designed to offer superior bonding between plies and covers, which directly impacts their life and reliability. We also support clients
with maintenance manuals and technical advice, helping them improve their system’s productivity and reduce downtime.

How critical are conveyor belts in ensuring seamless material handling?
Conveyor belts are a vital link in the supply chain across industries. In sectors like mining, cement, steel, and logistics, they facilitate the efficient movement of materials and help maintain uninterrupted production flows. At Elastocon, we recognise the crucial role of belts in minimising breakdowns and increasing plant uptime. Our belts are built to endure abrasive, high-temperature, or high-load environments. We also advocate proper system maintenance, including correct belt storage, jointing, roller alignment, and idler checks, to ensure smooth and centered belt movement, reducing operational interruptions.

What are the key market and demand drivers for the conveyor belt industry?
The growth of the conveyor belt industry is closely tied to infrastructure development, increased automation, and the push for higher operational efficiency. As industries strive to reduce labor dependency and improve productivity, there is a growing demand for advanced material handling systems. Customers today seek not just reliability, but also cost-effectiveness and technical superiority in the belts they choose. Enhanced product aesthetics and innovation in design are also becoming significant differentiators. These trends are pushing manufacturers to evolve continuously, and Elastocon is leading the way with customer-centric product development.

How does Elastocon address the diverse and evolving requirements of these sectors?
Our strength lies in offering a broad and technically advanced product portfolio that serves various industries. For general-purpose applications, our M24 and DINX/W grade belts offer excellent abrasion resistance, especially for RMHS and cement plants. For high-temperature operations, we provide HR and SHR T2 grade belts, as well as our flagship PYROCON and PYROKING belts, which can withstand extreme heat—up to 250°C continuous and even 400°C peak—thanks to advanced EPM polymers.
We also cater to sectors with specialised needs. For fire-prone environments like underground mining, we offer fire-resistant belts certified to IS 1891 Part V, ISO 340, and MSHA standards. Our OR-grade belts are designed for oil and chemical resistance, making them ideal for fertiliser and chemical industries. In high-moisture applications like food and agriculture, our MR-grade belts ensure optimal performance. This diverse range enables us to meet customer-specific challenges with precision and efficiency.

What core advantages does Elastocon offer that differentiate it from competitors?
Elastocon stands out due to its deep commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Every belt is customised to the client’s requirements, supported by a strong R&D foundation that keeps us aligned with global standards and trends. Our customer support doesn’t end at product delivery—we provide ongoing technical assistance and after-sales service that help clients maximise the value of their investments. Moreover, our focus on compliance and certifications ensures our belts meet stringent national and international safety and performance standards, giving customers added confidence.

How is Elastocon gearing up to meet its customers’ evolving needs?
We are conscious of the shift towards greener and smarter manufacturing practices. Elastocon is embracing sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient manufacturing techniques. In parallel, we are developing belts that seamlessly integrate with automated systems and smart industrial platforms. Our vision is to make our products not just high-performing but also future-ready—aligned with global sustainability goals and compatible with emerging technologies in industrial automation and predictive maintenance.

What trends do you foresee shaping the future of the conveyor belt industry?
The conveyor belt industry is undergoing a significant transformation. As Industry 4.0 principles gain traction, we expect to see widespread adoption of smart belts equipped with sensors for real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. The demand for recyclable materials and sustainable designs will continue to grow. Furthermore, industry-specific customisation will increasingly replace standardisation, and belts will be expected to do more than just transport material—they will be integrated into intelligent production systems. Elastocon is already investing in these future-focused areas to stay ahead of the curve.

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Economy & Market

Impactful Branding

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Advertising or branding is never about driving sales. It’s about creating brand awareness and recall. It’s about conveying the core values of your brand to your consumers. In this context, why is branding important for cement companies? As far as the customers are concerned cement is simply cement. It is precisely for this reason that branding, marketing and advertising of cement becomes crucial. Since the customer is unable to differentiate between the shades of grey, the onus of creating this awareness is carried by the brands. That explains the heavy marketing budgets, celebrity-centric commercials, emotion-invoking taglines and campaigns enunciating the many benefits of their offerings.
Marketing strategies of cement companies have undergone gradual transformation owing to the change in consumer behaviour. While TV commercials are high on humour and emotions to establish a fast connect with the customer, social media campaigns are focussed more on capturing the consumer’s attention in an over-crowded virtual world. Branding for cement companies has become a holistic growth strategy with quantifiable results. This has made brands opt for a mix package of traditional and new-age tools, such as social media. However, the hero of every marketing communication is the message, which encapsulates the unique selling points of the product. That after all is crux of the matter here.
While cement companies are effectively using marketing tools to reach out to the consumers, they need to strengthen the four Cs of the branding process – Consumer, Cost, Communication and Convenience. Putting up the right message, at the right time and at the right place for the right kind of customer demographic is of utmost importance in the long run. It is precisely for this reason that regional players are likely to have an upper hand as they rely on local language and cultural references to drive home the point. But modern marketing and branding domain is exponentially growing and it would be an interesting exercise to tabulate and analyse its impact on branding for cement.

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