Reported by: Adrian C.

Duero

Introduction to Rock excavation.

What is rock excavation?

• Rock excavation is defined as the excavation or hard, compacted or cemented materials that
often require blasting or the use of ripping and excavating equipment larger than that defined
for common excavation. In addition, excavation and removal of isolated boulders or rock
fragments larger than 1 cubic yard is also classified as rock excavation.
• If you are in need of such services, there are two methods of execution. First is the mechanical
method where rock is cut away at the bottom to form level bearing that follows natural strata.
This can also include removal of boulders and fragments that may roll into excavated areas or
careful removal of final layers to provide a base for footings and foundations.
• The second method is the explosive method where rocks are excavated by blasting in
accordance with requirements of approved proposal. This would result to disintegration of rocks
which are then removed. To determine the best method to be used, better get in touch with a
reputable company that is knowledgeable on excavating procedures.

The use of explosives for rock excavation has been dated way back in time. Nowadays, rock blasting uses
many different varieties of explosives with different compositions and performance properties. Higher
velocity explosives are used for relatively hard rock in order to shatter and break the rock, while low
velocity explosives are used in soft rocks to generate more gas pressure and a greater heaving effect.

Procedure for Excavation in Rocks

• Rock Excavation by Blasting
• Jack Hammer for Rock Breaking
• Chemical Fissures Method for Rock Breaking
• Excavator Mounted Hydraulic Hammer
• Wagon Drill for Deep Drilling into Rocks

Jack Hammer for Rock Breaking

• The selection of technique or equipment depends on the depth of rock excavation & proximity
to structures or hazardous areas. For smaller rock breaking Compressed air based jack hammer
shall be employed.
Chemical Fissures Method for Rock Breaking
• For hazardous areas where blasting & vibrations are not allowed such as in Running plant ,
Refineries etc. chemical rock fissuring shall be employed.
Excavator Mounted Hydraulic Hammer
• For larger areas excavator mounted Hydraulic hammer shall be employed for braking the rock.
Where there is no objection for blasting & larger areas blasting shall be employed after prior
approval of the Customer.

Rock excavation can be a risky procedure and there are a few safety protocols to follow as to avoid any
untoward incidents.
1.Excavations in public places should be fenced off to prevent pedestrians and vehicles falling into them.
2. Precaution should be taken such as backfilling or securely covering excavations if there is chance that
children might get onto a site out of hours.
3. Excavations in public roads or streets should be backfilled or covered over at night to minimise the
risk of accidents to the public.
4. Materials should not be left lying beside the area of work if not required for imminent use beside the
excavation.
5. In rock cut excavations where the rock is friable, netting should be used.
6. Whenever working or visiting an excavation site, always wear a hard hat.