In a groundbreaking achievement for the mining industry, the CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), Dhanbad, has successfully conducted the first trial blast for the Dozer Push Mining Method, integrating advanced digital technologies, for the first time in India. This innovative approach developed by CSIR-CIMFR, aims to enhance safety and operational efficiency in mining processes. The trial was conducted at the PEKB (Parsa East and Kanta Basan) Coal Mine operated by M/s Adani Enterprises Limited in the Udaipur block of Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh.
The successful trial was conducted by Adani Natural Resources, one of India’s leading private mining companies. The innovative method is expected to revolutionise mining operations with a focus on streamlining processes and improving safety protocols. The development is a result of a sponsored project being undertaken by the Dhanbad-based CSIR-CIMFR on a Scientific Study for Designing Deep Hole Cast Blasting at PEKB Opencast Coal Mine. The primary objective of the project was to develop a method that not only optimises the mining process but also ensures that vibration and fly rock are controlled within safe limits. After two years of extensive deliberations, technical evaluations, and adaptations to local mining conditions, the project has successfully tailored the Dozer Push Mining Method for Indian coal mines.
The developed Dozer Push Mining introduces a paradigm shift by utilising unmanned, automated machinery for mining operations. The trial involved drilling 108 holes using an automated drill machine (man-less), followed by cast/throw blasting using 60 tons of bulk emulsion explosives. Further, the blasted material will be pushed in a decoaled area using a specially designed, large-sized automated dozer machine.
The dozer push mining method offers a viable alternative to the conventional truck-shovel mining technique or shovel-dumper and dragline methods, with its distinct advantages such as improved efficiency by enabling faster coal recovery, reducing delays caused by adverse weather conditions such as the monsoon season and highly cost-effective, with an estimated 7-10% reduction in operational costs compared to conventional methods. Additionally, it enhances productivity by improving the utilisation of dragline machines and reducing unit costs. Moreover, the unmanned operation of the Dozer Push Mining method greatly enhances worker safety, minimising the risks associated with manual labour and traditional mining techniques.
The first trial was conducted under the leadership of Prof. Arvind Kumar Mishra, Director, CSIR-CIMFR, and the S&T team of CSIR-CIMFR comprising Dr Murari P Roy, Dr Vivek K Himanshu, Mr RS Yadav, Mr Suraj Kumar, and Dr Ashish K Vishwakarma. The first trial demonstrated successful drilling and charging operations, precise detonation with minimal environmental impact, and effective material movement using automated machinery. The second phase will involve conducting 8–10 additional trial blasts to refine the blast design further. The final recommendations will focus on optimising the method for widespread implementation.
The successful implementation of the Dozer Push Mining Method marks a significant advancement for the Indian mining industry. It underscores the potential for adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in mining operations. This breakthrough is poised to revolutionise mining practices, making them more efficient, cost-effective, and safer, ultimately setting a new benchmark in the industry.
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Adapted from PIB
