Operating Procedure Technical Description

The Boulder Buster is a non-detonation rock breaking tool utilizing propellant technology. A pressure impulse is generated in the tool by a cartridge filled with propellant. The pressure impulse is directed via a barrel into a incompressible fluid column (water or gel) placed in a pre-drilled hole in the rock. The success of the system results from the specific propellant technology used. The unique characteristics of the propellant and cartridge design results in a rapidly developing pressure wave. The impulse pressure (transmitted by the fluid column) starts the propagation of the fractures in the direction of stress concentrations and the nearest free face. The static pressure developed by the propellant causes further mechanical stress on the rock, resulting in the tensile fracturing of the rock. The direction of breaking can be controlled by the drilling pattern or by notching the holes.