Influence of Initiation System on Noise Levels-Produced by Blasting Operations In Limestone Mines

摘要

Detonation of explosive in the blast-hole leads to release of huge amount of energy within a short period. This energy besides breaking / fragmenting and displacing the rock mass results in some unwanted effects like ground vibrations, flyrock and noise. Noise generated is of major concern for the surroundingpeople, as it's effect may be felt at far off points from the source. Mostly, noise creates a psychological fear among the people. Sometimes noise may cause cosmetic damage to structures, if the intensity exceeds the permissible levels. The noise level due to blasting, is a function of rock, explosive (including initiation systems) and blast geometry parameters. The initiation system is one oj the predominant factors. A systematic study has been earned out to evaluate the influence of initiation system on noise in two limestone mines in South India. Two types of initiation systems, that is, conventional detonating cord initiation and non-electric based shocktube initiation system have been considered for the study in two mines. The noise levels are monitored at different distances from blast site. The investigations reveal a clear reduction of noise level for the shock-tube initiated blasts in the range of 5 percent - 10 percent.