Investigation of blast fragmentation models in a sandstone quarry

Abstract

The existing blast fragmentation models were investigated in a sandstone quarry for bench blasting operations. It was tried to present different perspectives for evaluation of blast fragmentation. Size distribution curves were created for each blast. KuzRam model provided successful results. Kuznetsov-Cunningham-Ouchterlony (KCO) model was useful especially for the fine size predictions. Capability of the models for fine, mean and coarse size predictions were evaluated in detail. Uniformity coefficients proposed by the models were examined. Chung & Katsabanis model was practically tested and a modification implemented for the studied quarry. Model validation was performed using ten different error metrics. Applicability of symmetric errors and scaled errors was investigated for evaluation of blast fragmentation. KuzRam model predicted mean fragment size with an error lower than three centimeters. The results of the modified Chung & Katsabanis model is quite promise.