Drilling and blasting process with QAQC Chuquicamata underground mine

Authors: López N, S; Cordova G, C; Cisternas G, C; Jamett G, N; Videla W, J Download Paper

Cite As:
López N, S, Cordova G, C, Cisternas G, C, Jamett G, N & Videla W, J 2024, 'Drilling and blasting process with QAQC Chuquicamata underground mine', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 811-818.



Abstract:
The present study outlines the update of the quality assurance and quality control (QAQC) process for drilling and blasting conducted since July 2021 for the Mining Engineering Superintendence. This update was initiated alongside the advancement of the incorporated areas of macro blocks N2N3 and S2S3.The analyses performed involved the measurement and control of all drilling and blasting processes. These measures facilitated continuous improvement at each stage, with the primary objective of ensuring the quality of the incorporated areas for both macro blocks. Based on these analyses, the main issues within the process were identified for further study. In addition to the measures considered, the study included an analysis of drilling deviations and the division of zones with significant deviations and associated corrections, leading to an improvement in the quality of the blasting results. Moreover, we will review all operational parameters of the charging equipment and the type of explosives used before the charging process. All post-blasting information will be analysed and evaluated to determine if a new drilling process is required, ensuring the quality of the incorporated area. Finally, in November 2023, the QAQC process analysed all the information concerning the incorporated area of macro blocks N2N3 and S2S3. This analysis covered 142,368 m², representing 89% of the total incorporated area, with 19% of blasthole rings and 1.3% of drawbells requiring re-drilling in both macro blocks.