Impact of blasting on pit wall rock mass

Abstract

The paper presents the research findings obtained by the Institute of Mining in drilling and blasting in Dzhetygara open pit mass. The research was aimed at enhanced stability of stationary benches and at cost minimization of drilling and blasting. The research met two objectives. First, in terms of Dzhetygara deposit, perimeter blasting designs were developed, which ensured reduced impact of blasting on adjacent rock mass. Second, the blast-induced PPV measurement procedure was refined and introduced, and the blasting technology was improved for blasting operations at ultimate pit limit. The special technology for ultimate pit perimeter blasting includes: analysis of blast effects on pit wall rock mass; finding of mechanisms of wave processes in rock mass; interaction of perimeter blasts depending on strength characteristics of rock mass; field trial of cutback methods; determination of sequence of blasts when approaching a guarded sites; determination of efficiency criteria of drilling and blasting.