Blasting in sublevel caving
Keywords:
sublevel caving, blasting, crater effect, rock fragmentation, explosivesAbstract
In sublevel caving, blasting operates under confined conditions, with the fragmented rock bordering the blasted stope and therefore setting unique blasting environment. The deformation resistance of this broken rock plays a crucial role, affecting blasted rock fragmentation and subsequent processes. This article explains the impact of the broken rock (confinement) on the formation of blast-induced fractures due to its inherent deformation. Additionally, strategies to circumvent the negative crater effect at the sublevel drift are discussed. Conversely, when appropriately utilized at the stope's upper side, this effect can lead to reductions in drilling and explosive consumption.
References
Torbica, S., & Lapčević, V. (2018). Rock fracturing mechanisms by blasting. Podzemni radovi, (32), 15-31. https://doi.org/10.5937/PodRad1832015T
Torbica, S., & Lapčević, V. (2023) Contour blasting. Owl and Fox - Mining Consultants. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8343625
Torbica, S., & Lapčević, V. (2023). Velocity of Detonation, Rock P-Wave Velocity, and Crater Effect in Blasting. Owl and Fox - Mining Consultants. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10001134
Sohail Manzoor, Anna Gustafson, Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (2022) Rock fragmentation variations with increasing extraction ratio in sublevel caving: a case study, International Journal of Mining, Reclamation and Environment, 36:3, 159-173, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17480930.2021.2000826