RSE3060 · Rock breakage

Overview

This unit will address the mechanics and practical applications and current technologies in rock breakage through machine excavation and drilling and blasting. The machine excavation includes fundamentals of rock cutting, cutting with discs and design of cutter heads along with the assessment of rock cuttability applicable to soft and hard rock underground spaces, such as civil and water drainage tunnels and subways. The drilling and blasting component includes the impact of blasting not on the behaviour of rock mass properties, structure and discontinuities and rock breakage and fragmentation. Drilling and blasting techniques will be explored in relation to design, safety, security, environmental impacts and relevant legislation. This will be done in the context of mine-to-mill.

Areas of study: Minor: Mining engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Continuous assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Comprehend and explain the contribution of rock breakage to the mining process
2. Comprehend and explain the various methods of rock breakage
3. Apply and implement appropriate methods of drilling and rock breakage for given in-situ rock conditions
4. Apply fundamental principles to the design and selection of safe and efficient blasting to: a. Design blasts to achieve particular outcomes b. Manage and control blast damage and environmental impacts c. Evaluate productivity and economics
5. Analyse requirements for the security, storage and handling of explosives and recommend and justify safe handling systems
6. Communicate effectively as an individual or part of a team to colleagues and the community

Workload

Th minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.