Mechanical rock breaking is preferred over drilling and blasting in several situations. When continuous operation is needed for improved efficiency and faster access to the ore body, mechanical cutting eliminates the cyclical nature of drilling and blasting.
It also offers greater precision and can create openings with more predictable shapes, reducing overbreak and the need for extensive support.
In urban environments or areas with sensitive infrastructure, mechanical methods produce significantly lower vibration and noise levels compared to blasting. For softer rock formations like coal, continuous miners offer a safer and more efficient alternative to blasting (Scielo, 2016).
Additionally, mechanical excavation can be more compatible with automation, potentially reducing the number of personnel required in hazardous underground environments (Jme.shahroodut.ac,).
The lower initial investment of drilling and blasting might be preferred for shorter tunnels or non-uniform shapes, but for longer, circular tunnels and in stable rock formations, TBMs (a type of mechanical cutter) can boast impressive excavation rates (Jouav, Unknown).
In what types of mining environments or conditions might mechanical rock breaking offer clear advantages over traditional drill and blast methods? Share your thoughts!
References:
Jouav. (Unknown). Drilling and Blasting. https://www.jouav.com/blog/drilling-and-blasting.html
Scielo. (2016). The history of rock cutting – from the Stone Age to the 21st century.(https://scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S2225-62532016001100006)
Jme.shahroodut.ac.ir. (Unknown). A Review of Rock Cutting for Underground Mining: Past, Present and Future. https://jme.shahroodut.ac.ir/article_4_72b0cc9fcdcecffc8e4b8fff3c75aa59.pdf
Knights, P., Stewart, P., & Ramezanzadeh, A. (2006). Benchmark drill and blast and mechanical excavation advance rates for underground hard-rock mine development.(https://www.researchgate.net/profile/P_Knights/publication/43460983_Benchmark_drill_and_blast_and_mechanical_excavation_advance_rates_for_underground_hard-rock_mine_development/links/5508c5c90cf26ff55f83c6c3.pdf)
