Evaluation of drill cuttings in prediction of penetration rate by using coarseness index and mean particle size in percussive drilling

Penetration rate of rocks is influenced by geological parameters, machine parameters and operating parameters. This paper presents a study on the coarseness index (CI) and mean particle size (d) to evaluate the penetration rate (PR) in percussive drilling in a limestone and in a marl quarry. The coarseness index was determined from sieve analysis. The mean particle size (d) and specific surface area (SSA) were determined by using Rossin-Rammler-Sperling (RRS) graph for each hole samples. The relationships between PR and CI, d, SSA were investigated by regression analysis. The best lines were selected in these graphs. Reliable relations were found between penetration rate and coarseness index and mean particle size. Finally, it was seen that the coarseness index and mean particle size could be used in evaluating the penetration rate in percussive drilling operations. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.