Assessment of excavability classification in a Limestone Quarry: A case study from Bayburt, Turkey

Abstract

Excavability is a measure of material which can be excavated with classical excavation equipment. Studies to decide the rock excavability characteristics contribute to the suitability of engineering projects. In this study, a limestone quarry (in Bayburt, Turkey) was analysed with excavability classification systems and appropriate systems were determined. To accomplish this aim, point load index and Schmidt hardness tests were practiced and changed to uniaxial compressive strength tests. After that, findings were categorized with classification systems in excavation and matched against practices from field. In this study, rock mass was addressed as “pre-explosion", “hard ripping" and “hammer and blasting" in accordance with distinctive classification systems. All determined as rock mass should be blasted for loosening then dug with hydraulic breakers. This practice is totally compatible with in-site excavations fulfilled. According to study results, the most suitable parameters to decide surface excavational classification are load strength index, geological strength index and the degree of rock mass weathering.