Hanwha launches new electronic detonator

Hanwha Corporation's new electronic detonator, HiTRONIC II / Courtesy of Hanwha Corporation

By Jun Ji-hye

Hanwha Corporation released a new electronic detonator featuring higher accuracy, improved safety and larger-scale blasting, the company said Monday.

An electronic detonator, controlled by a high-tech electronic chip, effectively reduces vibration and noise caused by blasting, compared to conventional detonators. Also the product produces better fragmentation results, improves efficiency of blasting and reduces construction costs.

The electronic detonator can be used in various areas where blasting and mechanical excavation are difficult, such as tunnels in highly urban areas and redevelopment zones.

With the new product, dubbed HiTRONIC II, Hanwha will accelerate its overseas push with an aim of securing a 25 percent market share in the global electronic detonator market by the end of 2024.

Hanwha started the development of the electronic detonator since 2010 to meet growing market demand for new blasting technology and high-quality products.

HiTRONIC I, which was released in 2015, was the first in Korea and the fifth in the global market.

HiTRONIC II increases its delay time by three to four times compared to HiTRONIC I.

A duplicate connector is applied to ensure its improved safety. It is capable of mass blasts ― 3,000 blasts per one blaster, three to four times greater than the previous model.

“Hanwha will do its utmost to become a global mining service company through active participation and continuous supply for both domestic and global markets,” a Hanwha Corporation official said.