DETERMINE THE POTENTIAL DRILL UTILIZATION IMPROVEMENTS AND ROCK FRAGMENTATION REQUIREMENTS USING DIRECTIONAL DRILLING IN A COAL MINING OVERBURDEN HIGHWALL APPLICATION

Author

Kevin Dill, Montana Tech of the University of Montana

Date of Award

Spring 2016

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Mining Engineering

First Advisor

Scott Rosenthal

Second Advisor

Paul Conrad

Third Advisor

Lee Richards

Fourth Advisor

Ajay Kumar

Abstract

This project analyzed the efficiency of incorporating the use of directional drilling technology into coal overburden blasting. Directional drilling is currently in use in the petroleum industry and it is believed that it will be a valuable asset in the mining industry. This project has shown that directional drilling can be a viable technology for use in the coal overburden removal process resulting in increased drill utilization and potential for cost savings. Future work regarding blasting and geotechnical evaluation should be performed to solidify the concept.

Comments

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Mining Engineering

Recommended Citation

Dill, Kevin, "DETERMINE THE POTENTIAL DRILL UTILIZATION IMPROVEMENTS AND ROCK FRAGMENTATION REQUIREMENTS USING DIRECTIONAL DRILLING IN A COAL MINING OVERBURDEN HIGHWALL APPLICATION" (2016). Graduate Theses & Non-Theses. 67.
https://digitalcommons.mtech.edu/grad_rsch/67