• Tunnel and Underground Space
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• v.20 no.5
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• pp.325-331
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• 2010

In the present research paper large scale blasting was conducted on two different firing patterns, namely, straight V type and skewed V type pattern on the same sandstone overburden bench with similar explosives. The post-blast fragmentation assessments were made by use of digital imaging technique. The total cycle time of 10 $m^3$ rope shovels was also recorded in the field. The results reveal improvements in the fragmentation and excavator performance results for the blasts fired on skewed V type pattern. The paper discusses the skewed V firing pattern and the reasons for its superior performance vis-$\grave{a}$-vis the straight V type pattern.

• Explosives and Blasting
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• v.28 no.1
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• pp.19-26
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• 2010

The paper presents a case study of a limestone quarry of the Philippines, where major problems in terms of improper fragmentation, poor wall control, and poor heave of the muck pile were witnessed. The paper highlights the significant role of switching over from diagonal firing pattern to V-type firing pattern, and also of making suitable adjustments in the stemming column length for improved confinement and gas retention. The study revealed that by making aforesaid design modifications in the blast round, marked improvement in blasting results was registered. Looking at the results, it was further contemplated to expand the mesh area in the subsequent blast rounds. The mesh area was incremented from the existing $8.96m^2$ to $12m^2$. The results were meticulously registered in the field, and clearly depicted definite improvements in the blast results in terms of increased P.F., reduced boulder count, reduced FEL cycle time, reduced dozing hours and improved heave.