This project was located in Potosi, the coldest department of Bolivia, over 3500 meters above sea level. We worked 350 days.
The rock drilling process in construction involves several stages and the determination of different parameters that affect the final result. Here is an overview of the process we follow and the main parameters involved
Geological survey: Before starting drilling, it is essential to carry out a geological survey of the area. This helps to understand the characteristics of rock formations, such as their hardness, strength and structure. This information is critical to determining appropriate drilling parameters.
Determination of drilling mesh size: Drilling mesh refers to the spacing between drilling holes. Determining the mesh size depends on the type of rock, the drilling objective, and the type of explosive used. In general, the size of the drilling mesh is determined by taking into account the desired fragmentation of the rock after detonation.
Drilling diameter: The drilling diameter is selected based on the project requirements such as the type of explosive used, the desired size of rock fragments and the type of detonation equipment to be used. Larger diameters are used to obtain larger fragments, while smaller diameters are used for smaller fragments.
Drilling Depth: Drilling depth is determined based on the needs of the project, such as the depth needed to reach a mineral layer or create a solid foundation for construction. It is also important to consider the stability of the drilling hole and the safety of workers.
Impacts of the drilling process: Rock drilling can have several impacts, including:
Cost: The drilling process, especially in harder rocks, can be expensive due to bit wear and energy consumption.
Mineral Extraction: In mining, drilling is one of the first steps in extracting valuable minerals. Drilling efficiency and precision directly affect the productivity and profitability of the operation.
Ground Stability: Proper drilling is important to ensure ground stability, especially in construction projects. Poorly executed drilling holes can compromise the integrity of structures and cause instability.
Proper selection of drilling parameters such as mesh size, diameter and depth is essential to ensure the efficiency and success of the drilling operation. It is important to consider geological characteristics, project objectives, and environmental and safety impacts when determining these parameters.
