Virtual Joint Chapter Meeting

On Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 6:00pm the Eastern PA Chapter, Mid Atlantic Chapter and Penn State Student ISEE and SME Chapters will come together to host a joint virtual meeting. The meeting will include Chapter updates and announcements followed by a guest presentation by Nolan Eckroade, North American Services Lead of Orica. He will present, “No Wires, No Worries – Introducing Truly Wireless Electronic Blasting”.

Nolan’s presentation will look at a wireless electronic blasting system for mining. Wireless initiation through rock, air and water is achieved using low frequency magnetic induction waves to send a firing command to groups of in-hole primers. This not only removes the limitations imposed by a wired connection to each primer in a blast, but also enables users to alter the paradigm of conventional mining techniques to advance operational productivity and reduce personnel exposure to high-risk activities. Nolan will discuss how wireless electronic blasting is transforming both surface and underground applications across the globe.

Nolan has worked within the mining and explosives industry for 10 years starting as a proud alumnus of Virginia Tech’s Mining & Minerals Engineering program. Nolan joined Orica after graduating and has held roles within operations, technical services, wireless initiation systems, and most recently regional marketing of Orica’s explosive delivery services.