Portal Creation Through Precision Drilling & Blasting
Kan-Arm was entrusted to deliver a pivotal project at the Red Chris Mine in northern BC, where the primary objective was to create a box cut for a portal. This work was essential for the ongoing expansion of the mine, ensuring the efficient transport of materials beneath a main haul road. The project, conducted during the challenging winter-to-spring transition, required meticulous planning and execution to maintain uninterrupted operations within the active gold mine. Despite the conditions, Kan-Arm upheld top safety and compliance with all relevant standards.
The collaboration with Newmont Corporation, one of the world’s leading gold producers, set high expectations for the project’s success. Kan-Arm's team of 12-15 professionals, including a dedicated blasting engineer, worked diligently to meet these expectations, leveraging their expertise in controlled blasting and drilling. The project also involved close collaboration with the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC), the general contractor, and AECOM, the engineering firm overseeing the project for Newmont.
Technical Execution
Kan-Arm employed advanced drilling and blasting techniques tailored to the specific conditions at Red Chris Mine in BC. Using a fleet of DX800s, the team began by utilizing blast mats to control fly rock in the initial phases. However, as the project progressed and the cuts deepened, Kan-Arm’s controlled blasting methods reduced the need for these mats, demonstrating their precision and adaptability.
A significant challenge was posed by the freeze-thaw cycle during the spring, which risked causing hole collapse. However, Kan-Arm’s innovative drilling techniques effectively mitigated this risk, ensuring the stability of the drilled holes and the safety of the operation. Our team collaborated with Newmont to fine-tune the blast designs, making thoughtful adjustments to ensure they perfectly suited the specific conditions of the site.
Results and Impact
Completing the blasting for the box cut at Red Chris Mine marked a significant milestone for Kan-Arm. This achievement sets the stage for upcoming stabilization efforts and the final box cut, scheduled for 2025, as well as the installation of a conveyor belt beneath the main haul road. These advancements are crucial for the mine’s expansion and will ensure a more efficient flow of materials.
Throughout the project, Kan-Arm prioritized environmental and safety standards, using eco-friendly oils and leak-protected drills. The project was finished without any safety incidents, highlighting our commitment to safe and compliant operations
We received positive feedback from all parties involved in the project expressing satisfaction with the quality and professionalism of Kan-Arm’s work. Our expertise as a drilling and blasting company working throughout British Columbia continues to set us apart as a trusted partner for complex projects in the region.
