Using an electronic detonator system and expanded blast patterns to prevent sympathetic detonation at Powder River Basin coal mines

This paper describes a systematic approach to prevent cast blast holes from detonating sympathetically through the use of the electronic initiation and expanded blast patterns. In-situ measurements were recorded from pressure probes, velocity of detonation probes and near field accelerometers, along with digital images generated from a high speed CCD camera. Large diameter angled drill holes were also checked for any measurable amount of deviation by a cable type borehole measurement tool. The field measurements provided the scientific evidence, statistical data, and documentation necessary to develop a sound method or a 'road map' that would minimize and in some situations prevent the occurrence of blast hole sympathetic detonation. 2 refs., 3 figs.