Rockfall stabilisation of a steep and high slope at West Angelas Mine using pre-tensioned anchored mesh

Authors: Lopes, PJG; Le, TT Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1308_89_Lopes

Cite As:
Lopes, PJG & Le, TT 2013, 'Rockfall stabilisation of a steep and high slope at West Angelas Mine using pre-tensioned anchored mesh', in PM Dight (ed.), Slope Stability 2013: Proceedings of the 2013 International Symposium on Slope Stability in Open Pit Mining and Civil Engineering, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1261-1272, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1308_89_Lopes



Abstract:
This paper presents a rockfall protection technique employed at the West Angelas iron ore mine located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The technique involves the installation of rock bolts and fully dimensioned high tensile wire mesh covering an area of approximately 6,000 m2 of the overhang 150 m above the pit floor. In order to evaluate the surface stability of the slope and to propose adequate design, an analysis was undertaken using surficial slope stabilisation calculation techniques to define nail geometry, type and diameter and appropriate mesh cover. The final design approach and construction methodology in which rope access technique drilling is required are also discussed and presented in this paper. The design of the rockfall mesh system has been proved to be satisfied as it has successfully stopped an approximately 1.5 m3 detached boulder falling off the crest in February 2012. Due to the simple installation procedure, the high tensile mesh system had allowed the project to be completed in shorter duration with minimal disruptions from technical related issues. Under Geovert’s assessment, the high tensile mesh system had saved approximately $700 k of cost against other stabilisation options such as rockfall barriers.

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