Understanding Secondary Fragmentation Characteristics in Cave Mining: A Simulation-Based Analysis of Impact and Compression-Induced Breakage

This study investigates the characteristics of secondary fragmentation and fines generation in cave mining through DEM simulations. The objective is not to develop a tool for accurately estimating fragmentation observed at drawpoints. Instead, the research focuses on an improved understanding of the impact of critical parameters (tensile strength, damping coefficients, and micro-defects) on secondary fragmentation characteristics. Attempting to predict outcomes without first comprehending the underlying mechanisms risks oversimplifying complex mine-scale conditions. The analysis shows that tensile failure is the dominant mechanism governing fragmentation. Size-distribution curves of fragmented blocks under impact breakage demonstrate a concave-up exponential relationship between percentage mass passing at 1/10th of the original size (t10) and kinetic energy. Furthermore, the analysis of compression-induced breakage highlights the significant role of tensile strength and micro-defects in determining the extent of fragmentation under different conditions. By better understanding these underlying mechanisms, the research establishes a solid foundation for predicting fines generation and ultimately enhancing decision making and operational strategies in mining.