Mechanical rock breaking offers significant advantages in terms of safety and vibration control, particularly in underground mining and confined environments.
A primary benefit is the enhanced safety for personnel, as these methods eliminate the inherent dangers associated with conventional explosives, such as flyrock, toxic fumes, and ground vibration (RockZone Americas, n.d.).
This directly reduces human exposure to unsupported ground, a critical safety concern in underground operations.
For instance, continuous miners eliminate blasting vibrations and harmful gases, minimizing worker exposure (IRJMETS, 2025).
In terms of vibration control, mechanical rock breaking methods produce significantly lower levels of noise and vibration compared to blasting (RockZone Americas, n.d.).
Technologies like expanding grout and gas expansion systems are particularly noted for their absence of noise, vibration, and flying debris, often requiring no permits or exclusion zones (Eurotech, n.d.).
This controlled fragmentation minimizes damage to surrounding rock and structures, contributing to a safer working environment and better community relations (Wirtgen Group, n.d.).
References:
Eurotech. (n.d.). High pressure rock/concrete breaking systems. http://www.eurotech-ltd.gr/en/products/supplier/10
IRJMETS. (2025). Continuous Miner Technology (CMT) for Mass Production in Underground Coal Mines: A Review. https://www.irjmets.com/uploadedfiles/paper//issue_4_april_2025/74261/final/fin_irjmets1745950846.pdf
RockZone Americas. (n.d.). How to Excavate Rock: Essential Techniques and Tools. https://rockzoneamericas.com/posts/how-to-excavate-rock-essential-techniques-and-tools
Wirtgen Group. (n.d.). Surface Mining. https://www.wirtgen-group.com/en-us/applications/mining/surface-mining/
