Effect of Rock Properties on Excavation-Loading Operation in Selected Quarries

Abstract

The effect of rock properties on excavation-loading operation in quarries was investigated by conducting test on the mechanical properties of selected rocks. These rock samples were tested in the laboratory for specific gravity, point load strength, uniaxial compressive strength and mineral composition using weigh balance, point load tester, 1100kN compression machine and petrological microscope respectively. The filling rates of the front end loaders bucket were determined. The result obtained show that value of uniaxial compressive strength varied from 29.22 MPa-30.87 MPa. The bucket filling rate varied from 0.180-0.250 m3/s and 0.145-0.170 m3/s for porphyritic biotite granite and coarse biotite granite respectively. There is strong relationship between bucket filling rate and strength properties with values of R2 ranging from 0.9737 to 0.9981.Therefore strength parameters of the rock have effect on excavation loading operation in quarries.