BME, a worldwide leader in blasting and explosives, is strengthening its presence in Australia with a strategic plan to expand local manufacturing. This move aligns with BME’s overall growth strategy to leverage Australia’s position as a major mining nation.
Building a Stronger Foundation in Australia
Australia is a key market for BME, ranking as the fourth-largest mining nation globally, following China, the US and Russia. In addition, Australia’s high mineral exploration rates point to a strong and growing mining sector in the years to come.
“Our first decade in Australia has been focused on importing and marketing our premium AXXIS electronic initiation system. The next exciting steps, however, go well beyond that into local manufacturing of detonators and other products and equipment in our own certified, state of the art automated facilities. We also have our mobile manufacturing units (MMUs) in the country to fully integrate with our other products.”
Ralf Hennecke, BME Managing Director of BME
BME’s next steps go beyond distribution, venturing into local manufacturing of detonators and other equipment within state-of-the-art facilities. This expansion includes utilising mobile manufacturing units (MMUs) that integrate seamlessly with BME’s existing product offerings.
The First Locally Manufactured Electronic Detonators in Western Australia
BME has secured a site in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, a strategic location for supplying detonators to miners of iron ore, gold, nickel, lithium, and other minerals in the region. This new facility will position BME as the first local manufacturer of electronic detonators in Western Australia, offering significant benefits to mining customers:
- Enhanced Supply Chain Security: Local manufacturing reduces reliance on external suppliers, mitigating potential disruptions like those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Improved Logistics: Closer proximity to customers translates to faster delivery times and reduced logistical costs.
This project follows the establishment of a similar manufacturing facility in Canada, reflecting BME’s commitment to global expansion. The WA plant will leverage proven technology, including a semi-automated line from BME’s Losberg plant in South Africa.
“Manufacturing in-country removes considerable supply chain risk for the industry, which the Covid 19 pandemic highlighted for every sector”
Ralf Hennecke, BME Managing Director of BME
Strong Industry Demand and Successful Trials
BME’s expansion aligns with the Australian mining industry’s growing preference for electronic detonators over traditional shock tubes. This shift reflects the desire for safer, automated blasting solutions that minimise risk and the need for personnel in potentially hazardous areas.
BME has fostered strong relationships with leading mining companies in Australia throughout the planning process. Trials conducted with the AXXIS electronic detonators at various WA mines yielded extremely positive results, further solidifying the technology’s suitability for the region.
Alignment with Safety and Sustainability Goals
Hennecke emphasises that BME’s electronic detonators contribute to the mining industry’s safety goals, adhering to Australia’s strict safety regulations. Additionally, the technology offers performance benefits by facilitating large, accurate, and reliable blasts, ultimately supporting sustainability and productivity for mining operations.
“This aligns importantly with the very strict safety policies and regulations that the country has in place. The technology contributes to industry’s risk mitigation efforts, but also holds performance benefits in terms of facilitating large, accurate and reliable blasts which support mines’ sustainability and productivity.”
Ralf Hennecke, BME Managing Director of BME
BME’s expansion in Australia signifies the company’s commitment to transforming global ambitions into concrete action. This strategic investment into infrastructure and local manufacturing, positions BME as a reliable partner for the Australian mining industry.
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