Application of wavefront reinforcement model for reduction blast-induced ground vibration

Abstract

© 2018, Prince of Songkla University. All rights reserved. Ground vibration from blasting is generally controlled by reducing the explosive charge weight per delay. However, lowering explosive charge weight per delay may increase the fragmentation size of blasted material. Richards (2008) introduced a wavefront reinforcement model to account for input burden, spacing and sequential delay timing for each blasthole. This study tested his wavefront reinforcement model with a predetermined surface wave velocity at 350 m/s to determine the direction and extent of increases in ground transmitted vibrations. The results from 21 experimental blasts on overburden material (Red Beds) at various patterns and delay timing at Mae Moh Mine indicated that ground vibrations were higher in areas of wavefront reinforcement compared to non-wavefront reinforcement in 16 (76%) of the experimental blasts. The designed drilling patterns and sequential initiation has shown that the wavefront reinforcement areas mainly occur in front and to the back of the blasting direction.