97434 - LABORATORIO DI ESPLOSIVI M

Learning outcomes

At the end of the laboratory the student knows: the characteristics of the main explosives used, with particular reference to mining engineering; the characteristics of the ignition methods of the main explosive; the principles and the design of the main specific blasts for the different applications, underground and open-pit; the practical use of explosives for mining applications (excavation, detachment, scaling ...); the use of the O-PitBlast software for the design of open-pit blast.

Course contents

The laboratory aims to provide theoretical and practical information for the use of explosives in open pit and underground excavation procedures.

After a general introduction on explosives and their use for breaking rocks, the characteristics of the different types of explosives will be examined.

Some geological, petrographic and rock mechanics skills will then be resumed to characterize the effect of the explosive in different conditions. Some more operational aspects such as loading and the different triggering modes, with the use of micro-delays constitute an important section of the program.

The different types of blasts will then be examined (on the surface, underground, for tunnels and stoves, ...), providing elements for the design of the blast. A central point is constituted by controlled and underwater blasting, with reference also to the oil industry.

The O-PitBlast software will be presented for the design of open-pit blasts excavations on which classroom and online training will be carried out, with the use of video tutorials.

The laboratory concludes with a review of the regulatory aspects in Italy and with the analysis of safety problems.

Readings/Bibliography

• SME – Mining Engineering Handbook, 3rd Edition, 2011, Peter Darling ed., Published by Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc.
• Manual Practico de Voladura, Edición especial, 2013, published by EXSA SA
• Selva, L.; Nardin G., Manuale del corso di formazione per fochini: gestione degli esplosivi in sicurezza, Selva L. e Nardin Giacomo, Sogeca, 2013
• Coppe, D., Manuale pratico di esplosivistica civile, Edizioni Pei, 1998
• O-PITBLAST User Manual, 2021 O-Pitblast, Lda., http://www.o-pitblast.com/

Teaching methods

The laboratory consists of lectures with the aid of audio-visuals and training using specialized software. There will be various seminars by companies in the sector. Excursions to excavation sites with explosives are planned.

 

Assessment methods

The exam is based on the discussion of a blast project agreed between student and teacher

 

Teaching tools

Audio-visuals with examples of the use of explosives. Sw O-PitBlast.

Office hours

See the website of Roberto Bruno