Blast optimization at Tororo cement quarry

Abstract

The research study was conducted to devise measures for achieving optimal quality blasts associated with reduced secondary blasting costs, maximization of profits, increased safety, and environmental protection. Blasting is the most recognized and applied technique. During blasting, energy transformation takes place in the explosive, Rock breakage is associated. with generation of dust, air blats noise, ground vibrations fly rocks etc. Blast optimization is concerned with efficient utilization of explosive energy during the rock fragmentation. The major objectives being desired fragmentation size a safety and environmental protection presents a necessity for properly designed blasts. Though numerous studies have been conducted in frying to minimize these blasting effects lot of monitoring is required for fly rocks since the direction of throw of material cannot be predicted easily. In this study, focus was put on blast design parameters; geological and human aspects. Human aspects entail the explosive properties, and initiation systems, bench, drill hole cost of the explosive among others. The geological aspects are rock properties, ground water conditions. Today optimization of blasts is achieved through conducting trial blasts. This is an inefficient tool/measure as it is a trial and error technique- In this particular paper, an application tool to integrate the blasting parameters has been developed to eliminate the rudimentary trial blasts. Thus deductions such as- qualitative and quantitative results from optimized blasts can be drawn with- a right tool with the aim of assessing. monitoring and controlling field blasts which are aspects of a good blasting practice. The results of this practice are minimized cost, profit maximization and safety and environment protection.