Basalt is frequently mined in a surface mine, or quarry. The majority of basalt is used a aggregate (gravel) in making concrete and asphalt paving. Typically, boreholes are dr
…illed in the rock with power drills, boreholes loaded with explosives, and fired- producing the first breakage. The shot rock is mucked (dug) with power equipment, loaded onto haulage vehicles or conveyors, and carried to the crusher plant. A jaw crusher is typically used to crush large rocks, and cone mills as the next crusher to get smaller stone. Rock is sorted for size with the use of a tool called a trommel. (MORE) 
