Against a background of deeper pits, the introduction of prestripping fleets and the need for closer control of operating costs (especially the waste removal component), Australian coal operations utilising draglines have in recent years become increasingly focused on:
1. assessment of more efficient excavation methods; and
2. application of explosive products and initiation systems which offer more flexibility than ever before.
Additionally, developments in blast performance assessment techniques and equipment, and computer modelling and excavation monitoring systems have provided an improved opportunity to design a blast to achieve a desired profile suited to the excavation equipment and Sequence.