Video thumbnail

Blasting Solutions

Non-electric initiation

Reliable non-electric initiation systems for safe and efficient blasting in diverse mining conditions.

Safe, reliable non-electric initiation systems for mining and civil blasting applications.

Non-electric initiation systems use signal tubes and detonators to transmit a shock wave rather than an electric current. This makes them highly resistant to accidental initiation from stray electricity, radio frequency, or static discharge. 

Orica’s Exel™ range is designed for precision timing and durability in harsh conditions, making them ideal for underground mining, surface operations, and civil tunnelling

Customers choose non-electric systems for their simplicity, reliability, and enhanced safety in environments where electrical hazards are a concern.

Certain products are available only regionally. Contact us or check with your local Orica representative for availability.

Non-electric range

Exel

Exel™ detonators deliver dependable non-electric initiation for surface and underground blasting. 

They provide accurate timing, improved safety, and operational flexibility across diverse mining environments. 

Exel™ comes in a wide range of variety to suit a range of conditions, inlcuding Exel™ Neo - the world's first lead-free non-electric detonator.

obs-IS-exel-mobile2

Features and benefits

Resistant to electrical hazards

Eliminates risk from stray currents and radio frequency interference.

Precision delay timing

Accurate intervals for controlled blasting sequences.

Lead-free NPED technology

The Neo range offers environmentally safer detonators without primary explosives

Versatile applications

Suitable for underground, surface, and civil blasting projects

Durable signal tube

High-strength tubing resists abrasion and harsh conditions.

Simple and reliable

Easy to deploy with minimal training requirements

The Neo range of Exel non-electric detonators is manufactured using a lead-free formulation in Gyttorp, Sweden.

Industries

Icon image

Surface metal

Icon image

Surface coal

Icon image

Underground mining

Icon image

Construction

Icon image

Quarrying

Hole conditions

Icon image

Dry

Icon image

Dewatered

Icon image

Wet

Icon image

Hard rock

Questions?

Contact our global team of experts to learn how we can support your operations. 

Further insights

What is a non-electric initiation system? A non-electric initiation system uses a shock tube to transmit a signal from the initiation point to the detonator. Instead of electricity, the signal travels through a hollow plastic tube coated internally with reactive material, creating a controlled shock wave. This design eliminates risks associated with stray electrical currents, making it safer in environments with conductive materials or electromagnetic interference. 

Where are non-electric systems typically used? They are widely used in underground mining, surface mining, quarrying, and civil tunnelling projects. These environments often have high moisture levels, conductive ground conditions, or electrical hazards, making non-electric systems the preferred choice for safety and reliability. 

Why choose non-electric over electric systems?

  • Safety: Immune to accidental initiation from electricity or radio signals
  • Reliability: Performs consistently in wet or conductive environments
  • Simplicity: No need for complex wiring or power sources
  • Environmental: NPED technology reduces hazardous materials 

How does NPED technology improve safety? NPED (Non-Primary Explosives Detonator) technology removes lead azide and other primary explosives from the detonator, reducing environmental impact and improving handling safety. This innovation ensures compliance with modern safety and sustainability standards. 

What makes Orica’s Exel™ range stand out? Exel™ products feature high-strength signal tubes, precise delay timing, and robust aluminium shells. They are engineered for durability in harsh conditions and offer a wide range of delay intervals for complex blasting sequences.

obs_Exel_Connectaline

Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter

Get in touch

Whether you need support or simply want to learn more, reach out to our team. We’re here to help.