Abstract
Using the concept of Lagrange diagrams this contribution details the calculation of the delay time between blastholes in a row and rows of blastholes with respect to precise initiation timing within the new advanced blasting technology which is based on the use of electronic detonators. After introducing the representations of stress waves and cracks, this contribution focuses on the role of stress wave interaction in optimal fragmentation in surface blasting and bench blasting. Part I of the paper considers two interacting blast-holes, Part II will be devoted to three or more out of plane interacting blastholes, whereas Part III will treat the interaction with a free face such as encountered in bench blasting. A few simplifying assumptions have been made in this paper with respect to the rock mass as well as the mechanical treatment. The essential assumptions include that the rock mass is treated as a continuum with finite tensile and compressive strength and the effects of structural geology are not taken into account. In addition, the analysis in Part I is simplified by two ‘educational’ assumption, that all waves are plane (i.e., one-dimensional) waves and three-dimensional effects of finite size blastholes and charges are not taken into account. This contribution will also show that knowledge in wave propagation and fracture mechanics is essential for the successful application of the new blasting technique in industry. In particular, the delay time, the wave speeds in the rock mass, the shape of the wave pulse and the acoustic impedance mismatch (not considered in this paper) have become decisive parameters in advanced blasting. Utilizing the wave speed and wave shapes of detonations, large scale tests in various countries (Australia, Chile, etc.) have shown that optimal delay timing requires shorter delay times in conjunction with allowing for a wider drilling pattern and the use of a grossly reduced amount of explosives, i.e., a lower powder factor. This seemingly contradictory arrangement is fully justified by using scientific principles in blasting, and converting blasting from an art to a scientific discipline.