Optimization of cut-hole layout under high in situ stress based on numerical simulation and field tests

Abstract

A well-designed cut-hole layout is crucial for improving drilling and blasting efficiency in deep underground engineering. For this purpose, this study investigates the patterns of blast-induced rock damage under various cut-hole layouts and ground stress conditions through numerical simulations and field tests. The key cut-hole parameters include uncoupling coefficients (K), the empty hole diameter (D_e), and hole spacing (D_c-e). In simulations, when K exceeded 1.15, indicating the use of uncoupling charge, both the rock damage scope and the blast shock wave transmission were significantly suppressed. In contrast, the coupled charge (K = 1.0) demonstrated better performance in promoting damage. Additionally, large-diameter empty holes (D_e = 8 or 10 cm) showed pronounced free surface effects on the facing-blasting side, completely breaking the rock mass between the charge hole and the empty holes and effectively guiding crack propagation on the back-blasting side. Hole spacing had an inhibitory effect on effective plastic strain near empty holes; the optimal D_c-e value is 14 cm. Finally, field tests were conducted, and the results revealed that the suggested cut-hole parameters enhanced cycle advancement and borehole utilization by 9.0% and 12.3%, respectively, while reducing the powder factor by 27.4%. These findings provide valuable insights for similar underground engineering applications.

Keywords

cut blasting / cut-hole layout / LS-DYNA / parameters optimization / rock damage

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2025 The Author(s). Deep Underground Science and Engineering published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of China University of Mining and Technology.