The Trajectaflex resin Firing System was designed by Michael Williams, Managing Director, after 18 years working in underground mining. Michael saw the need for a safer and more efficient way to install resin for resin set bolting.

The Trajectaflex is not only a system, but a method of installing resin. It is basically a blow gun which fires resin cartridges using air pressure into a predrilled bolt hole. A bolt is then inserted and this is what stops the mine from caving in. There are no other comparable systems in the industry. It is semi-remote and it keeps the drill operator on the platform where they are safest.

The project has had significant impact in efficiencies proving to save 1 minute per bolt, and up to 80 minutes per shift. Part of this time saving is achieved by keeping the operator on the platform for longer periods of time, keeping them safe from unsupported ground.

This system has been designed to be retrofit onto any development jumbo drill and it does not impede the use of the drill when not in use. As the system was designed by a drill operator, for a drill operator, it is easy to use and requires very minimal maintenance.

Wilco have been providing this method and system for 17 years and are continuing to grow within Australia and overseas. We want to achieve the acknowledgment for the safety this system delivers and raise awareness of our brand and business.

SA has multiple large-scale long-life mines. Adelaide offers an array of engineers and we are well placed to travel to the northern, eastern and western states when required.

The Australian mining Industry is seeing another boom. It is exciting times! There are new resources needed for the new technological advancements we continue to see, so mines are growing and adapting. The amount of new products and technology to support the mining industry is not slowing down. Everywhere we look within the energy and resource industry is growth and advancement.

The future for Wilco Technologies is bright, busy and exciting. Not only is our Australian client base growing, our international customers are also starting to see the benefits of the methods used by Australian Mining Industry for decades.

As world leaders in mining practices, a substantial number of Australian mines have adopted resin bolts as best practice. This is due to the increased life span of the bolt along with reduced installation and mine rehabilitation costs. Wilco Technologies is at the forefront of this development with the ‘Trajectaflex’ Resin Firing System”.

The awards are important for the industry to highlight the achievements and promote small South Australian business.

1. When I (Michael) arrived home form the initial prototype trial, conducted at a prominent mine in South Australia, I received a call from the mine superintendent. He proceeded to tell me how excited they were with my system and they were willing to assist in further trial work. The Trajectaflex System is still used and considered best practice at this mine today, 18 years later. This was a key moment when I realised what I had designed was going to work.
2. After a change of management late last year, I have been encouraged and supported to get out of my comfort zone and share my story, which I believe is worth sharing.

1. Experience in the industry. Having worked underground for 18 years I was able to understand the complete cycle of development drilling. This has given me a significant advantage being able to understand the real needs of the operators.
2. Strong relationships with customers. This is a must for success. Back up and support is crucial to the success of the system. I offer initial onsite training when commissioning a system, and will travel to site for follow up training if and when required.
3. Strong relationships with suppliers. South Australia has so many fantastic engineering companies we are spoilt for choice. Wilco engage multiple small South Australian companies to manufacture different parts of the Trajectaflex system, and I work closely with each of them to ensure we are both happy with the end product.

As aforementioned, we are spoilt for choice in SA. Wilco technologies are 100% Australian made, and of all suppliers, only two are interstate. We engage the services of more than 20 South Australian small businesses.

As far as location goes, we are central to the mining industry being easily able to travel to the Easter, Northern and Western states.

Know your product and have a clear understanding of what the client requires. Ask the questions, never be afraid to pick up the phone or send an email, if you don’t know ask!

Once you have your product/idea, back yourself and get yourself and your product/idea out there. Find out who you need to speak to and speak to them. There are multiple agencies out there that will help, and there are grants and incentives that can be accessed to get started.