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In this paper the Meiduk copper orebody is first briefly described and its relevant parameters considered. An appropriate computer program is introduced and its virtues described. The computer program, first used in 1997, is subjected to analysis and the required data gathered from field investigations and experiments. These data include:
geological and geomechanical parameters, characteristics of explosives used, environmental considerations etc. Burden is calculated using trimmed averaging method and the pattern of drilling and blasting is designed, using hand used method and the program introduced earlier. The results of these calculations are subjected to sensitivity analysis for fragmentation criteria and in particular, those obtained from two different methods compared. This comparison clearly demonstrates that the computerized method is of more accuracy and flexibility. This will help the mining engineer to minimize costs in varying conditions, whilst increasing blasting efficiency. The models introduced and results obtained could be used for Meiduk copper orebody and all similar situations, in order to obtain the optimum pattern for drilling and blasting.