The Quarrying Process
Quarries normally
operate for about 30 years and during that
time a variety of quarry equipment may be
used.
The Quarrying Process
Although in general a quarry is a type
of open surface working from which virgin
rock or minerals are extracted, each quarry
is very different and will use different
types of quarry equipment. The design and
general running operation of a quarry depends
on the type of rock being extracted, the
general environment surrounding the quarry,
the size of the quarry and the geography
and geology of the general area.
The Quarry Set Up
After the geologists have found
an appropriate place for the quarry to be
situated, which contains a large supply
of rocks beneath the Earth’s surface,
the quarry design needs to be drawn up with
health and safety in mind. A permit for
the quarry site then needs to be obtained
before work within the quarry can begin.
Drilling and Blasting
Drilling and blasting are two important
parts of the quarrying process and so employees
such as drillers and shotfirers undertaking
these activities must be specifically trained
in this area. These explosive experts drill
holes in the earth and place explosives
inside. The explosives are detonated to
provide the smallest release of energy for
the most efficient blast. The larger pieces
of stone which are released are removed
by pit loaders and dumped into large haul
trucks.
The Processing Plant
The rock arriving at the processing
plant has to then go through the crushing
process. The specialist quarry equipment
used will depend on the size of the rocks
being crushed and the desired size. The
different sized stone is then separated
by the use of screens. The stone is then
stored in huge stockpiles according to the
aggregate, such as rock, sand or gravel.
Some of these stockpiles may be so large
that they have to be kept outside.
At N.H. Greaves & Co Ltd the quarrying
process is of great importance to us as
we are manufacturers and suppliers of specialist
quarry equipment. For further information
please call us on 01709 582381.
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