Effect of priming and explosive initiation location on pull in hard rock underground mine

Abstract

In the development of hard rock mines, achieving maximum pull after blasting plays a crucial role. Various machines have been developed for rock cutting, but still, due to flexibility and cost-effectiveness, drilling and blasting are preferred. To enhance the effectiveness of this method, several techniques have been developed, including the use of appropriate stemming material, double-primer placement, selecting optimal initiation locations, improving blast designs, and exploring stress superposition techniques through electronic detonators. This research paper focuses on investigating the effect of the priming and explosive initiation location on pull through an experimental approach. The study specifically examines the influence of different initiation approaches on pull, with a particular focus on inverse initiation without solid decking. The findings indicate that inverse initiation without solid decking reveals the best pull for competent rock. Additionally, the inverse initiation with 1st and 2nd square cut solid decking (double detonators with different delays) and spacers in periphery holes was found to be the best choice to eliminate the post-blast sockets with reasonable pull for weathered competent rock.