In the PBM system, electrical energy stored in a capacitor bank is discharged through specially designed plasma cartridges to generate a high-energy plasma channel. The resulting shock wave propagates through the rock mass, creating controlled micro-fractures without the use of conventional explosives. This innovative approach enables efficient rock breakage while significantly reducing ground vibration, flyrock, and hazardous gases commonly associated with traditional blasting operations.

Key Advantages

Compared with conventional blasting methods, PBM offers a wide range of technical, operational, and environmental advantages, including:

• Elimination of conventional explosives from the rock fragmentation process

• Improved operational safety by removing the risks associated with explosive storage, transportation, and handling

• Reduced environmental impact with no toxic blast gases generated during operation

• Precise control over the fragmentation process and reduced flyrock

• Improved rock breakage efficiency and enhanced mining productivity

• Lower operating costs and improved economic performance

Applications

The PBM technology is suitable for a broad range of mining and civil engineering applications, including:

• Surface and underground mining

• Ore extraction

• Tunnel excavation

• Secondary breaking of oversized boulders

• Controlled demolition of concrete structures

• Construction projects in vibration-sensitive environments

Its flexibility and controllability make PBM an attractive solution for industries seeking safer and more sustainable alternatives to conventional blasting technologies.

Joint Technology Development

The PBM system is the result of a joint technology development program between Sormak Mines Company and Sam Hi-Tech Knowledge-Based Company. Following the design, manufacturing, laboratory validation, and field testing phases, the technology entered operational deployment at Ahangaran Mine, where it continues to undergo optimization under actual mining conditions.

The successful implementation of PBM represents an important milestone in the localization of advanced mining technologies, while contributing to improved operational safety, higher productivity, and more sustainable mining practices.

Patent Protection

The Plasma Blast Machine is supported by both domestic and international patent protection, reflecting the innovative nature of the technology and Sormak's long-term commitment to research, technological advancement, and the development of next-generation mining solutions for the global mining industry.