Analysis of blast induced vibrations in aggregate mining

In recent years, blast induced vibrations come out an important environmental effect for mining operations. This environmental effect creates more problems especially in aggregate mining. Usually aggregate mines (quarries) are operated near the cities in order to reduce transportation costs. Naturally, blast induced vibrations cause significant problems between quarries and the residents near the quarries. Blast induced vibrations are seismic movements in the ground caused by rock blasting. The vibrations are basically sinusoidal with parameter displacement, wavelength, frequency, acceleration and particle velocity. The magnitude of the vibrations increases with the amount of the explosive fired per delay, and decreases with distance. In this paper, the cause of the blast induced vibrations explained. The precautions to prevent the occurrence of vibrations and suggested limits for vibrations are summarized. Particle velocity is the main element to examine the vibrations almost in all new investigation procedures for blast induced vibrations. OSMRE - U.S. Department of Interior Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - suggests four different approaches to predict vibrations levels. The examinations are carried out based on particle velocity and frequency knowledge. The advantages and disadvantages of the procedures are explained using vibration data monitored in the quarries.