Determining the fragmentation of mineral by digital imageanalysis in Sungun copper mine

Fragmentation of rock is one of the most important outcomes and goals of blasting in open-pit minesto obtain the desired product for loading and crushing stages. Fragmentation resulting from blasting isinfluenced by various factors, including intrinsic and uncontrollable parameters of the rock mass andcontrollable parameters such as specific charge. Presenting an efficient model due to the combinedeffect of multiple parameters in rock fragmentation is a complex issue. The modified Kuz-Ram model,employing the explosive capability index, involves more factors of the rock mass in fragmentation andis considered among the applicable models.To determine the fragmentation resulting from blasting using image analysis, the crushed rock mass isfirst photographed, and ultimately, with the help of analysis software, the size distribution curve isplotted. In this study, the size distribution curve and the average dimensions of the mineral fragments(X۵۰) were determined using image analysis and the Split Desktop software, one of the most up-to-dateimage analysis software after fragmentation. These results were compared with the modified Kuz-Rammodel in the Sungun copper mine. The obtained results indicate that the average size of the fragmentedpieces in the image analysis method (۲۷.۵۶ cm) are greater than the results obtained from the modifiedKuz-Ram model (۲۰.۹۲ cm).

Keywords:

Fragmentation , Digital Image Analysis Method , Split Desktop Software , Sungun Copper Mine , Modified Kuz-Ram Model