Background - Blast Vibration Monitoring System
A Queensland coal operation was navigating the dual challenge of maintaining production efficiency while meeting increasingly stringent environmental compliance requirements around blast vibration monitoring. As blasting activities progressed closer to a nearby critical electricity transmission infrastructure, the need for a more advanced approach to monitoring ground vibration and air overpressure became apparent.
While the site had strong operational practices in place, there was an opportunity to enhance oversight and confidence through real-time data capture and automated reporting. This would not only support regulatory obligations but also help safeguard nearby infrastructure and maintain community trust.
Recognising the importance of proactive environmental management, the operator partnered with Novecom — a trusted provider of advanced monitoring solutions with a proven track record in regulatory compliance and environmental performance.
Technical Challanges
Precision Monitoring in a Sensitive Zone
To effectively manage the impact of blasting near a critical structure, the monitoring system needed to capture every event with a high degree of accuracy. This meant more than just recording vibration levels — it required a dependable, real-time solution that could filter false events and provide reliable data for compliance and decision-making.
Usability for On-Site Teams
Equally important was the need for a system that could be easily operated by site personnel. The client sought a platform that was intuitive and user-friendly, reducing reliance on external specialists and enabling teams to manage monitoring activities confidently and independently.
Seamless Integration with Complex Infrastructure
Adding to the complexity was the requirement for a hybrid communication backhaul. Data needed to flow seamlessly from remote monitoring locations through a combination of carrier networks and the mine’s internal IT and OT systems. This integration had to be secure, reliable, and capable of supporting continuous data transmission — without introducing delays or risking data loss.
Solution
We delivered a comprehensive, future-ready solution tailored to the client’s operational and compliance needs:
Intuitive User Interface
We crafted a user-friendly interface for self-service. This allowed the client to effortlessly navigate their data in the system. The design eliminated the need for extensive training, empowering staff to manage and operate the system with confidence and efficiency.
Advanced Technology Integration
Central to our solution was the integration of the SynaptiX Collector. This edge controller is part of the expansive environmental monitoring system that Novecom deploy in many other mission critical applications. It features integrated power and connectivity along with datalogging. The SynaptiX Collector facilitates local data processing, reducing the need to constantly send data to a central server. For crucial data that must be transferred, our design ensured uninterrupted power and seamless operation.
Collaborative Delivery with Emergent Group
We collaborated with Acubis, Remote Communications Specialists, also operating under the Emergent Group Banner. Acubis’ in-depth knowledge of the site’s IT and OT networks, and their expertise in off-grid power systems, were instrumental in overcoming technical challenges and achieving optimal results.
Results
Our solution delivered measurable improvements across key operational and compliance areas:
- Blast Optimisation: The BVM system allowed the client to understand their ground vibration levels from blasting activities, optimising their blast design.
- Enhanced Data Accuracy: The SynaptiX Collector improved data accuracy, ensuring precise monitoring and reporting of blast events.
- Increased Operational Efficiency: The intuitive user interface led to a reduction in training time, allowing staff to quickly adapt and manage the system effectively.
- Reliable, Continuous Monitoring: The hybrid communication backhaul system ensured efficient uptime for data transmission, providing reliable and continuous monitoring.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates how Novecom’s precision monitoring solutions can be seamlessly integrated into complex mining environments — delivering both operational efficiency and regulatory peace of mind.
In an industry where compliance, safety, and reputation are on the line, having the right monitoring technology partner makes all the difference.
If your site is still relying on manual processes or outdated systems, now is the time to act.
Contact Novecom today to discover how our Blast Vibration Monitoring solutions can help you stay compliant, protect critical infrastructure, and operate with confidence.
