Rock blasting is a controlled and precise use of explosives to break or crack a rock. This method is useful if a rock must be removed or excavated and is too big to be physically moved in one piece. Rock blasting is mostly used in mining and civil engineering. If you want to remove a large rock, you may want to learn perform this technique in the most safe and responsible manner possible. However, note that this method of excavation is very dangerous, so be sure to be very careful and follow all necessary safety precautions.
Instructions
1. Prepare the rock as well as the surrounding area for the blasting process. This is an essential step because you need to make sure the procedure is absolutely safe and goes through as smoothly as possible. Remove all flammable objects near the rock as well as objects that could be damaged by the blast. Also, secure the area completely to ensure no children, pets or other people are near the rock during the blasting process.
2. Reveal the rock by removing the soil around it. Make sure the biggest part of the rock is easily accessible. Use common gardening tools for digging, such as a pickax and shovel.
3. Clean the rock once you've removed the extra soil. Use a stiff brush to wipe off the dirt, dust and other residue. Note that you need a clear view of the rock to plan the blast and then perform it.
4. Make a fire under the side of the rock or just near its side. Maintain the fire for an hour or two, to heat the rock as much as possible.
5. Pour cold water on the rock once it is heated enough. Unlike the heating process, this part of the job doesn't need to last long. The temperature shock sometimes results in cracking, depending on the efficiency of the used method and the structure of the rock itself. If this hot-and-cold technique works, you will have an easier job with further blasting. Sometimes, blasting will not even be necessary. Wait until the rock is dry before you move on to the next step.
6. Drill holes in the rock, each about ½-inch deep, following a pattern so the holes are of equal distances. Use a power tool and a strong drill tip for this task.
7. Clean all the holes by blowing the dust out with strong air pressure. This will make the blasting agent much more efficient.
8. Choose a blasting agent for breaking the rock. A number of companies make various kinds of demolition and blasting products. You can choose anything from silent, non-explosive fluids to small blast cartridges. Inspect the condition of the rock, its size and structure and choose the blasting agent accordingly. Seek professional advice if necessary.
9. Place small blast cartridges, demolition fluid or whatever blasting agent you chose into the previously drilled holes. Just be sure the agent is from a known, reputable manufacturer.
10. Apply the demolishing agent to finally blast the rock into pieces that are small enough to be carried by one person.
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