Oyu Tolgoi geotechnical monitoring system

Authors: Ulziijargal, M; Enkhtaivan, E; Purevdorj, M; Purwanto, H; Simanjuntak, K; Moorcroft, T Download Paper

Cite As:
Ulziijargal, M, Enkhtaivan, E, Purevdorj, M, Purwanto, H, Simanjuntak, K & Moorcroft, T 2024, 'Oyu Tolgoi geotechnical monitoring system', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 383-397.



Abstract:
The underground mass mining method block caving has gained prominence in the mining industry, presenting unique challenges in ensuring safe and productive operations. The scale of these operations necessitates a comprehensive monitoring system to effectively oversee ongoing plans and inform decision-making processes, thereby mitigating potential risks to personnel and the overall business. This study focuses on implementing a large-scale geotechnical monitoring system within the Oyu Tolgoi Hugo North Lift 1 Panel 0 Block Cave. The monitoring system's robustness is emphasized, covering all stages from initial footprint development to sustained cave propagation and the breakthrough phase. The results obtained from this monitoring system have evolved to become a primary drive of daily operational decisions at the Oyu Tolgoi mine. This substantial investment in geotechnical monitoring has made an invaluable contribution to the successful completion of Panel 0 Undercut and the establishment of the cave system. This paper aims to share insights into the practical application of the monitoring system at Oyu Tolgoi and its substantial value addition to the mining business.