Orica last year bought Excel Mining Systems for $A775 million and in 2006 picked up United Kingdom mining consumables group Minova for $870 million.

Orica said Strata Control Systems had revenue of more than $45 million, and as a result the acquisition would be earnings per share accretive for the explosives company in the first full year.

The terms of the deal are confidential but Orica said the purchase was funded via its existing debt facility, and is expected to close in the first quarter of this year.

Strata primarily provides metal support systems for underground mining including roof bolts and accessories, and has three manufacturing facilities in New South Wales and Western Australia.

Orica said the strategic rationale for the deal included Strata's strong links to Orica's existing business, common customers, and a strong regional overlap.

Additionally, Orica noted that resin, one of its products, was used in combination with bolts giving the two companies the same market drivers and technical approvals.