Computer applications in blast vibration monitoring

The effects of underground blasting on the stability of hangingwalls, pillars and other rock structures is an inherent part of the Noranda Geomech- anics/Mine Design Program to improve mine stability, productivity and reduce ore dilution. The blast vibration monitoring program at Noranda Research aims to develop controlled blasting techniques. This is done through the measurement and analysis of peak particle velocities and accelerations, actual delay firing times and vibration frequencies. This paper describes the various computer technologies used at Noranda to monitor and assess underground blasts. In particular, the use of readily available software packages for waveform analysis are presented, as are recent advancements in the use of digital recording and personal computer based systems.