Analysis of the drill and blast work in the Eclépens quarry of Holcim Switzerland with respect to blast vibrations

Tobias Schachinger

Research output: ThesisDiploma Thesis

Abstract

From March to June 2005, in the Eclépens quarry of the Holcim company (Holcim Suisse S.A.) drill and blast work was closely monitored, to find out whether there is a potential for the reduction of the blast vibration. In addition blast experiments were carried out where different tests were made in order to reduce the blast vibration level below 3 mm/s. Geological measurements show that geology seems to have no influence on a favoured blast vibration propagation in a certain direction. It is certain, that the development of the quarry towards Eclépens will cause higher blast vibrations in future. Measurements done with a theodolite proved a too high subdrilling of almost all production blasts, which can be additionally responsible for high blast vibrations. For normal production blasting in the quarry, a charge column with intermediate stemming and detonating cord over the whole drill hole length is used. The detonator is at the bottom of the drill hole. Several measures were tried to reduce blast vibrations: The introduction of decked charge columns with two delays lead to a clear reduction of the blast vibrations were clearly reduced. The orientation of blasts away from Eclépens (in direction Mormont) caused an additional reduction of the vibration level. Additional studies have to be done to further reduce the blast vibration level in the Eclépens quarry.
Translated title of the contributionUntersuchung der Bohr- und Sprengarbeit im Steinbruch Eclépens von Holcim Schweiz unter Berücksichtigung der Sprengerschütterungen
Original languageEnglish
QualificationDipl.-Ing.
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Moser, Peter, Supervisor (internal)
Award date16 Dec 2005
Publication statusPublished - 2005

Bibliographical note

no embargo

Keywords

  • Eclépens
  • Holcim
  • blast vibration
  • drilling and blasting work
  • reduction

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