Abstract

GHANIZADEH ZARGHAMI, A.; SHAHRIAR, K.; GOSHTASBI, K.  and  AKBARI, A.. A model to calculate blasting costs using hole diameter, uniaxial compressive strength, and joint set orientation. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2018, vol.118, n.8, pp.869-877. ISSN 2411-9717.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/2018/v118n8a10.

Calculation of the blasting costs plays a significant role in blast pattern design and reduction of the final extraction cost of minerals. Blasting costs include drilling costs, blasting materials costs, and additional costs of blasting operations. We assessed information from three copper mines in Iran, and found that there is a significant relationship between blasting costs and hole diameter. A relationship was derived to calculate blasting costs per cubic metre as a function of hole diameter, bench height, uniaxial compressive strength, joint set orientation, the cost of drilling, and the unit cost of explosives. This model will enable engineers to estimate blasting costs prior to designing the blast pattern. Based on the model, an increase in the rock strength and the angle between the bench face and the main joint set will increase the blasting cost. On the other hand, the costs will decrease when the hole diameter increases for every range of uniaxial compressive strength.

Keywords : Blasting cost; hole diameter; uniaxial compressive strength; joint set; Iran copper mines.

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