Blasting Plan vs. Fragmentation Plan

The blasting plan is the document used for rock breakage involving explosives. It records what occurred during the blast. In contrast, when using Rompex for fragmentation—which is not an explosive but a chemical solid—we do not use the conventional blasting plan. Instead, we use a fragmentation plan, which is more suitable for this type of service.

Fragmentation Plan

The fragmentation plan minimizes operational negligence. It provides a document-based visualization of the field area, anticipating what will happen to the rock mass. The more detailed the plan, the more data we will have for future analysis. Reducing issues and creating a record for study are essential points.

Rompex Cartridge on Site

Rock fragmentation is an exact science involving a natural resource. Through calculations, we can project on paper what will happen in the field. Each calculation must be extremely accurate, as any error could turn the activity into a potential safety risk. Although it is an exact science, the natural element—the rock—may exhibit characteristics that only become apparent during drilling and field observation. Therefore, prioritizing safety is essential.

Fragmentation Plan Spreadsheet

Areas Related to the Fragmentation Plan

The presented fragmentation plan focuses on the following specific areas:

• Drilling: this is the map of the holes in the rock. It includes the distance between holes, bit diameter used, drilling equipment, hole depth, volume of rock influenced by each hole, hole inclination, and other details.
• Geology: describes the rock mass. It provides essential information on the type of rock and its behavior based on structure, hardness, density, compressive and tensile strength, among others.
• Charge: details the material used for fragmentation. It includes the weight of the material, type of material used, charge column and stemming height, charge ratio, accessories, timing, maximum charge per delay, and other specifications.
• Safety: focuses on the blast radius. This safe distance for people and equipment ensures that the specified range is secure. The indicated distance must be carefully evaluated with a safety margin.

All stages are important, and the result depends on the correct execution of each. The fragmentation plan documents whether all steps were properly carried out. It is recommended that the document be signed by two parties: the technical supervisor and someone responsible for the mining/construction operation.

Legal Requirement

The fragmentation plan is not legally required, unlike the blasting plan, since it does not involve explosives. Nevertheless, we inform all clients using Rompex that a fragmentation plan should always be carried out for each fragmentation operation.

Field-related questions often arise, especially in constantly changing scenarios. We have a specialized team of mining engineers available to support you whenever needed.