Orica (ORI:ASX) and Epiroc, in partnership with Agnico Eagle Mines Limited have
successfully commenced live blasting with Avatel™ – the world’s first semi-automated
wireless underground development charging solution at Agnico Eagle’s Kittilä mine in
Finland. The milestone brings to life an industry-driven concept that dramatically improves
safety at the face, which is one of the highest risk activities in underground mining today.
The award-winning innovation enables a single operator to prepare and wirelessly complete a full
charging cycle from the safety of an enclosed cabin while offering the best available blast outcomes
through the integration of Orica and Epiroc’s flagship digital, automation and blasting technologies.
The first successful blast was loaded and fired on 22 November 2022, comprising 61 Orica
WebGen™ 200 Dev wireless primers and 295 kilograms of Orica’s Subtek™ bulk emulsion loaded
to a development face at the Kittilä mine.
Celebrating the significant milestone, Orica Chief Technology Officer Angus Melbourne said:
“Together with Epiroc and Agnico Eagle we are extremely proud of the team in creating a solution
that keeps people out of harm’s way during what is considered one of the highest risk activities for
underground miners around the globe.
“With Avatel, we can now effectively manage risk for the people who spend the most time every shift
directly exposed to hazards at the development face while delivering all of the blast optimisation
benefits that Orica’s flagship technologies bring. The combination of digital, automation and wireless
blasting technologies and by partnering with customers and peers, we can continue to solve the
industry’s biggest challenges across safety, productivity and sustainability, together.”
Sami Niiranen, President for Epiroc’s Underground division, said: “This is a true milestone achieved
for our industry where Epiroc in partnership with Orica have led the way to safer underground
operation. By building on our recognised solutions and advanced Rig Control System, Avatel paves
the way to safe productivity for the mining industry.”
The first commercial implementation of Avatel™ will take place at Newcrest’s Cadia Valley
Operations from December 2022.
For more information, visit orica.com/Avatel
ORICA AND EPIROC FIRE WORLD FIRST SEMI-AUTOMATED, WIRELESS
DEVELOPMENT BLAST WITH AVATEL™ AT KITTILÄ MINE
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First Avatel™ blast after mucking
Avatel™ at the face charging
ORICA AND EPIROC FIRE WORLD FIRST SEMI-AUTOMATED, WIRELESS
DEVELOPMENT BLAST WITH AVATEL™ AT KITTILÄ MINE
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The blasted face charged by Avatel™
Click here to watch the video from this industry milestone activity
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MEDIA CONTACT
Andrew Valler
Head of Communications
Mobile: +61 437 829 211
Email: andrew.valler@orica.com
Website: www.orica.com
ABOUT ORICA
Orica (ASX: ORI) is one of the world’s leading mining and infrastructure solutions providers. From
the production and supply of explosives, blasting systems, mining chemicals and geotechnical
monitoring to our innovative digital solutions and comprehensive range of services, we sustainably
mobilise the earth’s resources.
Operating for nearly 150 years, today our 12,000+ global workforce supports customers across
surface and underground mines, quarry, construction, and oil and gas operations.
Sustainability is integral to our operations. We have set an ambition to achieve net zero emissions
by 2050 and are committed to playing our part in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Find out more about Orica: orica.com
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ORICA AND EPIROC FIRE WORLD FIRST SEMI-AUTOMATED, WIRELESS
DEVELOPMENT BLAST WITH AVATEL™ AT KITTILÄ MINE
Public
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ABOUT EPIROC
Epiroc is a vital part of a sustainable society and a global productivity partner for mining and
infrastructure customers. With ground-breaking technology, Epiroc develops and provides
innovative and safe equipment, such as drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and
tools for surface and underground applications. The company also offers world-class service and
other aftermarket support, as well as solutions for automation, digitalization and electrification.
Epiroc is based in Stockholm, Sweden, had revenues of SEK 40 billion in 2021, and has more than
15 500 passionate employees supporting and collaborating with customers in more than 150
countries. Learn more at www.epirocgroup.com.
Epiroc’s Underground division develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of tunneling
and mining equipment, including drill rigs, loaders, mine trucks and ventilation systems, for
underground applications worldwide. It focuses on innovative product design and aftermarket
support systems for added customer value. The division has production in Sweden, India and
China. Please see www.epiroc.com for product offerings.
