Highway Construction Part 5: Rock Drilling and Blasting TSYH 4405

Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:

Module 1 - Nature and Origin of Rocks

• Describe the major classifications of rock and explain the methods used in rock identification and classification.
• Describe the processes that take place during the formation of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.
• Describe the purpose and use the sight recognition and rock identification tables and figures utilized by the Ministry of Transportation and Highways.
• Describe the various components of the structure of an existing body of rock.

Module 2 - Rock Excavation: Ripping

• Identify and describe the common equipment used in rock excavation by ripping and discuss the general specifications related to rock excavation.
• State and define the general rock classifications and physical characteristics which favor ripping.
• Discuss seismic analysis related to rock ripping and determine the rippability of rock based on seismic wave velocities and ripper performance.
• Discuss the basic operations of ripping, equipment selection, direction of travel, depth and typical ripping techniques.
• Estimate ripper production given the appropriate data.

Module 3 - Rock Drilling Equipment & Techniques

• Determine the common terms used to describe rock drilling equipment and techniques.
• Define and discuss the methods for rock drilling and the selection of appropriate equipment based on the application and rock type.
• Calculate rock drilling production rate given the appropriate data.

Module 4 - Explosive Products

• Define the terms used to describe the primary explosives used in highway construction.
• State and define the properties of explosives and their relationship to rock blasting.
• Describe the difference between electric and non-electric initiating devices and the use of primers for explosive detonation.

Module 5 - Explosive Storage, Handling & Transportation

• List the sources of regulations and control for the safe handling of explosives.
• State in general terms the considerations for safe storage, handling, and transporting of explosives.
• State the requirements for obtaining a blasters certificate.

Module 6 - Blasting Effects and Design

• Explain the method of rock fracturing by blasting.
• Define the terms spacing and burden, and calculate appropriate spacing and burden dimensions given information for typical blast conditions.
• Define and explain smooth wall blasting techniques.
• Describe and explain the purpose of blast vibration monitoring.

Effective as of Fall 2003