JOURNAL OF ROCK MECHANICS

JOURNAL OF ROCK MECHANICS

Acoustic Signal Processing During Drilling and Penetration Rate Analysis for Developing an Empirical Model to Predict the Mechanical Properties of Hard Rocks

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Department of Mining Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran.
Abstract
The mechanical properties of rocks directly influence drill tool wear, penetration rates, and overall project costs. Various methods and standards have been developed to assess these properties. In recent years, the use of acoustic signals in engineering disciplines, particularly in mining engineering, has seen significant growth. This study investigates the correlation between acoustic and vibration signals generated during drilling, penetration rates, and key rock properties, namely uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and tensile strength. Ten samples of igneous rocks (granite) were tested. During the drilling of each sample, acoustic and vibration signals, as well as penetration rates, were recorded. Statistical analyses, including multivariate linear regression, revealed that rock mechanical properties could be accurately estimated based on signal characteristics and penetration rates. One notable advantage of this method is its ability to provide real-time, accurate estimations of rock properties during drilling, reducing the need for traditional sampling and costly laboratory tests. This capability makes the proposed method a promising and efficient alternative to conventional techniques.
Keywords
Subjects

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