FLYROCK IN SURFACE MINING–Part 2. CAUSES, SOURCES AND MECHANISMS OF ROCK PROJECTION

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/

Abstract

The fracturing and movement of rock that occurs in the vicinity of a stemmed borehole explosive charge in open–pit mining operations are described by examining the effects of the emitted stress waves—shock and elastic—and the expansion of high pressure detonation product gases. Three principal modes of momentum transfer to fractured rock are identified, all linked to gas expansion work. This work can be delivered radially (burden), axially (stemming) and in the collar zone (cratering). Flyrock is generated under unusual combinations of blast parameters and rock properties. Though infrequent and seldom predictable, the generation of flyrock can nonetheless be interpreted and modelled in terms of the principal mechanisms of rock projection described in this study. The identification of the root causes of flyrock will permit the development of predictive models for velocity and range on the one hand, and the institution of effective mitigation measures on the other.

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Author Biography

  • Thomas - Szendrei, Dynamic Physics Consultants

    Specialist consultant in explosion effects and applications

    Dr T. Szendrei biography

    Tom Szendrei has been a consultant in explosion effects and applications since 1994 after being involved in explosives and ballistics research since 1979. His expertise relates to the evaluation and prediction of harmful effects of explosions and their  mitigation in surface  mining and construction blasting.

Published

2026-04-15

Issue

Section

Papers of General Interest