Gautrain Rapid Rail Project – Specialised Applications

Illustrating how the flexibility and accuracy of electronics can be exploited to control the blast to achieve single hole firing and minimising blast impact on surroundings.  

Challenge
15 Kilometers of underground tunnels needed to be excavated under sensitive, built up areas in and around Johannesburg CBD.  There were also time and environmental impact constraints associated with blasting.  In some instances blasting had to take place as shallow as 15m below the surface

Solution
AEL’s electronic detonator system was adopted – It combines pre-programme detonators and face component enabling users to quickly and efficiently connect up the face and design the firing sequence in order of connection.

Outcome
Maximum advance rates and adherence to strict environmental restrictions were achieved.  The project was completed within 26 months.  Over and above the efficiency success, great environmental successes were achieved.  No damages to sensitive structures on surface with PPV levels were incurred.