Model for Optimization of Drilling, Blasting and Fragmentation Processes in medium mining

Abstract

This study aims to propose a new alternative to optimize drilling and blasting processes from the mathematical and geological viewpoint using simulation software. The main objective is to design a systematic model of steps that can generate a simulation through JkSimBlast. This simulation must represent the best alternative for the design of drilling mesh and explosive selection to be implemented in the field. To achieve this goal, a seven-step process diagram was proposed, including geology, design aspects (burden and spacing across the areas of influence algorithm), analysis of physical parameters such as detonation rate, drill-mesh design, explosives selection and fragmentation analysis, simulation tests that could represent the field designs, and selection of the most optimal simulation. For the collection of parameters in the field, we have used MicroTrap Software and WipFrag, which have allowed the design of a mesh according to the needs of the rocky massif. The most optimal simulation was implemented at Caravelí Mining Company-Estrella Unit and had a positive impact on the optimization of drilling and blasting, as the costs of these processes were reduced by 14.6%. Specifically, the costs of explosives were reduced by 2.6% and the costs of drilling steels by 10.4%. The performance of the loading machine advance/shot increased by 13.2% and 15.6%, respectively. Copyright 2019.