FRAGTrack, the new, automated fragmentation measurement device, is designed to capture real-time data to help optimise drill-and-blast operations and downstream unit productivity, while tracking operational performance.

It is delivered as part of the Orica BlastIQ suite and is available to customers today.

Orica's vice-president for digital solutions, Raj Mathiravedu, explained that rock size distribution, or fragmentation, is important for keeping track of drill-and-blast performance, while optimising blasting, loading and haulage, and improving material throughput in processing.

The new device can be mounted on both shovels and conveyors, and it uses binocular cameras and a proprietary hybrid 2-D/3-D image-processing algorithm for measurements.

It is also specifically designed for durability in tough environments, temperatures ranging between -30°C and +45°C, and a range of rock types and hardness levels.

As it's a fully autonomous system, it can offer higher sampling frequency and comparative analysis of multiple sample data sets.

"FRAGTrack is designed to improve productivity and optimise drill and blast through the integration of fragmentation data into the drill-and-blast planning and design processes. This creates an opportunity for our customers to significantly improve downstream outcomes," Mathiravedu said.

"Driven by the needs of our customers to accurately assess blast outcomes, including fragmentation, we continue to invest in developing intelligent and autonomous measurement systems that are easily integrated into existing mine ecosystems."