Comparison of digital photoanalysis and empirical formula for prediction of fragmentation with field measurements after a large blast

Fragmentation analysis is extremely important in the mining industry as mos t of its unit costs can be related directly or indirectly to blasting effic iency. Visual methods and semi-empirical approaches are generally used for the determination of fragment-size distribution. In the past decade, howeve r, image-processing techniques have been developed in association with impr ovements in computer technology. These techniques, based on measurements an d statistical analysis performed on digital images, present a cheap, practi cal and efficient solution. Fragmentation analysis techniques were compared with the use of data obtain ed from fieldwork carried out for the design of a mobile crusher-belt conve yor system in TKI-ELI Soma North Isiklar lignite open-pit mine. The digital photoanalysis method was applied and its accuracy was tested by measuremen ts taken in the field.