A Numerical Approach for Simulation of Rock Fracturing in Engineering Blasting

Abstract

An approach for simulation of rock fracturing as a result of engineering blasting is presented in this paper. The approach uses element elimination technique within the framework of finite element method to capture the physics of engineering blasting. The approach does not require pre-placement of fracture paths which is the severe drawback of the other existing methodologies and approaches. Results of plane stress modelling for isotropic brittle rock behaviour are presented in this paper and these results are in good agreement with the existing knowledge base. The authors also review the existing approaches of numerical modelling to compare the efficacy of the element elimination technique. It is anticipated that the further developments with this approach can prove to be good experimental tool to improve engineering blasting operations.

Modelling of preconditioning by blasting in block and panel caving

“…Numerical modelling of discrete fractures was performed by Saharan and Mitri (2010) to evaluate the extent of a fractured zone after de-stress blasting (Figure 4). A series of simulations was undertaken varying several practical factors such as the: effect of confinement (e.g.…”