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We interview owner Martin Hermansson, blasting technician Jimmy Josefsson, and surveying technician John from Alingsås Sprängtjänst — an experienced company with more than 50 years in the drilling industry. The company consists of a large team of experienced blasters, supervisors, survey technicians, and office staff.
The company can be described as a well-oiled machine that continuously strives to improve, where the use of new technology has been a decisive part of that development. Their services include a wide range of drilling and blasting services above ground, including blasting in quarries and urban environments, as well as rock splitting.
As the name suggests, the company is based in Alingsås and operates mainly in the Götaland region. For larger projects, they also work nationwide.
How did you get in contact with us, and why did you choose Transtronic?
Before we started using Transtronic’s products, we worked with a simpler scanner that measured where the drill was and how deep it went. It worked fairly well, but not optimally. We knew there were better ways to work.
When we began exploring sensor-controlled drilling and a more data-driven workflow, this could not be offered by our drilling machine supplier. Therefore, we had to look elsewhere, and that’s when Transtronic was recommended to us. By then, Transtronic had already worked with similar machine brands and was able to offer the solution we were looking for.
How long has the collaboration been going on?
The collaboration has been ongoing for approximately ten years and began around 2015. Transtronic’s sensors are mainly used as angle sensors, along with the probe for measuring hole depth and hole deviation. Transtronic has also provided support for the highly appreciated machine control system since the beginning, which the company was a reseller of when the collaboration started.
Together with Transtronic, blasting technician Jimmy has historically acted as a so-called test pilot for investigating bugs and developing new functions. Jimmy further comments that the combined use of machine control and sensors undoubtedly paid back the entire investment during the very first contract job carried out with the equipment.
Can you tell us about the challenges that existed before and during the collaboration/project?
Previously, like many others in our industry, we faced the common risks related to safety, rework, and reduced efficiency caused by incorrect blasting. Sometimes too much was blasted, and sometimes too little, which resulted in costly additional work.
High accuracy increases efficiency and safer blasting
Since we started using Transtronic’s products and working in a more digitalized way, everything we do has become more efficient, and blasting is generally safer. High accuracy delivers both profitability and predictability, with no unpleasant surprises. We measure everything using the equipment, which allows us to achieve stable and consistently good results.
Solution-oriented service reduces downtime
Despite this, there will always be something that can go wrong with the equipment or in our work. In those situations, it is reassuring to have fast and knowledgeable service from Transtronic. Jan Lexe, Head of Service, and his team solve an incredible number of issues. Their ability to troubleshoot and diagnose many problems remotely is a crucial factor in keeping us operational and minimizing downtime.
What are Transtronic’s products used for specifically?
Jimmy, blasting technician
We measure hole deviation using the probe before blasting. Depending on the size of the project, this may be done occasionally, while on larger projects such as Aitik or Kaunis it can involve measuring around 20–30 holes at a time. In my work, I also use an RTK drone to quickly and efficiently see where the surveyor has positioned the drill hole. We check that the hole is not too close to the outer wall. One of the worst things that can happen is that the hole becomes misaligned, which can lead to unintended detonation if the explosive gets stuck.
John, surveying technician
We use software from different suppliers, for example QuarryX, which is our blast design software. In our industry, we need broad knowledge of different tools that all need to work together for the best results.
From Transtronic, I primarily use the Probe—our Transtronic probe for measuring holes—which works excellently and saves me a lot of time. I have tried many other probes that tend to break. Transtronic’s Probe is very robust and durable, and it has lasted for more than six years now. In addition, I receive fast and efficient service whenever there is a problem.
On average, I set out and measure 2–3 holes/blasts per week. The average hole is 10–40 meters deep, so the probe has been used for many hours of effective operating time over the past years.
The support is excellent—they go the extra mile to help me in the best possible way, every time.
Which products have been used?
- Inclinometer system – for monitoring drilling data in real time
- Sensors – angle sensors, length sensors, etc.
- GNSS – staking out
- Probe – measurement of hole deviation
What concrete results have been achieved in terms of increased efficiency, profitability, and similar outcomes?
The holes are generally drilled more accurately. We also have significantly safer blasts and no flyrock anymore. We know that we have proper rock coverage and that the holes are placed in the correct position.
How have our service and availability been experienced?
10/10 – Good products and our problems are always solved.
Would you recommend Transtronic?
Unanimously from all interviewed employees – yes, we would gladly do so.
Contacts
Company: Alingsås Sprängtjänst AB
Names and titles: John, Surveying technician | Jimmy, Blasting technician | Martin, Owner. For contact details, see link.
Website: www.alingsassprangtjanst.se
