Successful Excavation with NexPand Standard: Dam Outline on Mine

When excavation is required near communities, existing infrastructure, or sensitive environments, conventional explosives can introduce unacceptable risk. On this project, the objective was clear: safely and accurately excavate a dam outline on a mine site without blasting, without compromising rock-breaking performance, and within the constraints of limited site access.

Dam Outline on a Mine Project Scope

The excavation involved three defined rock blocks forming part of the dam perimeter:

• Block A: 40 m × 9 m × 1.6 m

• Block B: 7 m × 4 m × 1.6 m

• Block C: 1 m × 2 m × 1 m

The area presented several practical constraints:

• Restricted access prevented the use of a drilling rig.

• The excavation depth required precise control.

• The proximity of the surrounding community ruled out traditional blasting due to safety, vibration, and noise concerns.

The client required a controlled, reliable, and technically sound solution. Harlen Supplies NexPand Standard, an expansive mortar used for rock breaking in the quarrying, mining, and construction industries, provided that solution.

Technical Approach using NexPand Standard

Handheld drilling was selected to suit the access limitations while maintaining drilling accuracy. Using 32 mm drill bits, the drilling pattern was designed to optimise product performance and crack formation across each block.

Drilling parameters applied:

• Drill bit diameter: 32 mm

• Hole depth: 80–90% of block height (adjusted according to thickness)

• Burden and spacing: 0.3 m × 0.3 m

• Product: NexPand Standard

After drilling, NexPand Standard was mixed with water according to the specified ratios and immediately poured into the pre-drilled holes. The expansive grout generated progressive internal pressure, inducing controlled cracking through the rock mass.

The process achieved the required fragmentation with:

• No vibration

• No fly-rock

• No blasting fumes

• Significantly reduced noise

This ensured safe operation in close proximity to the community and existing infrastructure while maintaining structural control around the excavation area.

Harlen Supplies Training and Operational Support

Prior to execution, the client’s team underwent practical training with Harlen Supplies. The session covered:

• Correct mixing procedures

• Product handling and curing considerations

• Drilling layout and hole configuration

• Safety and environmental controls specific to non-explosive demolition agents

This technical support ensured consistent, predictable results across all three blocks and minimised the risk of application error.

The Project Outcome

The use of NexPand Standard enabled precise excavation of the dam outline under constrained conditions, without resorting to explosives and without compromising on performance. The project demonstrates how the correct application of non-explosive rock breaking technology provides a safe, controlled, and effective solution where access, safety, and community impact are critical factors.