Blasting Optimisation0 pages

Blasting Optimisation
Client: Lafarge
Project: Worldwide Blasting Optimisation Initiative
Laser System: Quarryman® and Boretrak®
Lafarge is implementing a worldwide initiative to
optimise drilling and blasting operations across its
600 sites globally. The initiative aims to reduce costs,
increase safety, and lessen the impact on the
environment. The potential savings have been
estimated at 10-25 million Euros annually.
Blast Design Metrics
Fragmentation has a large impact on quarry performance at every
stage of the drilling, loading, and blasting process. The initiative
therefore plans to increase awareness and understanding of
fragmentation and implement best practices to reduce direct and
indirect costs. Best practices include the identification of experts,
suppliers and equipment to improve the blasting process plus setting
up procedures and ensuring competency of operators through
training.
Principles of Successful Blasting
Blast Design Parameters
3D Face profiling using MDL Quarryman® Pro
The measurement, understanding, and use of accurate design
metrics are very important for successful blasting. This should also
include consultation with mining plans and a good understanding of
the quarry geology.
Blast Design Pre-requisites
Face preparation – Benches must be cleared, scaled of loose rock,
and inspected for condition before profiling and blasting.
Quarry face profiling
Surveying –Accurate bench profiling and surveying is the first stage in
the manufacturing process and is critical to the efficiency of the
remaining downstream activities. Key to this is the use of correct
equipment and trained operators. Measurement of bench heights,
level of crest and toe, slope angle, and maximum & minimum burden
can be done using 2D and 3D laser profiling. By mapping a rock face
in detail it is possible to determine actual burdens in front of each
planned borehole to avoid excessive burden (vibration, oversize) and
insufficient burden (flyrock, airblast). If neglected or if surveying is
done incorrectly it can have a detrimental effect on the rest of the
manufacturing process including poor quality drilling and mining
operations with increased safety risks and cost.