Mini booster for confined spaces
Mining solutions company AECI has unveiled a compact booster designed to deliver initiation in small‑diameter holes, particularly in underground and constrained blasting environments.
Showcased at the recently-held Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026, the device integrates with existing initiation systems and is designed for ease of use and the delivery of dependable detonation.
“The mini booster gives crews dependable pick‑up sensitivity and simple coupling so preparation stays swift and outcomes remain consistent,” says AECI VP: international Jaco Human.
Underground mining often requires blasting in narrow headings, development ends and small‑diameter boreholes where space and access are limited. In these conditions, inconsistent initiation can compromise fragmentation, delay cycles and increase rework.
The mini booster is a compact, high‑energy Pentolite cast booster developed for use with non‑cap sensitive bulk explosives in small‑diameter holes.
Key features include:
- Strong pick‑up sensitivity to support consistent initiation.
- Quick, straightforward coupling during charging.
- Compatible with non‑electric, electric and electronic full‑strength detonators.
- Sized for underground use where borehole diameters are limited.
“We designed [the mini booster] to support safe, repeatable initiation without adding steps,” adds AECI VP: strategic marketing and technology, mining explosives Morne Stiglingh. “The aim is simple. Keep the device compact, the coupling intuitive and the results consistent in confined headings.”
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