Prediction of ripping machine performance in terms of rockmass properties

Abstract

The rockmass parameters that affect the productivity of tractor mounted ripping are briefly reviewed. The results of a number of field ripping trials in a variety of sedimentary rocks on the Western Lignite opencast mines in the Tuncbilek district in Turkey are presented. Various ripping rates are shown to correlate well with a rippability index based on the discontinuity frequency and strength of the rock. The correlative relationships are fully developed. The cost-effectiveness of mechanical ripping and drilling and blasting are compared, from which it is concluded that ripping of relatively hard rock can be considered only in conjunction with scraping of the loosened material.