The evolution of caveback monitoring at Northparkes L1N block cave

Authors: Teet, R; Snyman, L; Jalink, B Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2435_C-11

Cite As:
Teet, R, Snyman, L & Jalink, B 2024, 'The evolution of caveback monitoring at Northparkes L1N block cave', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 426-439, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2435_C-11



Abstract:
In 2019, Northparkes began the development for its newest block cave extension, E26 Lift 1 North (L1N). With its footprint vertically offset from the pre-existing Lift 1 footprint and mining the column of ore wrapping around the north and east to the existing Lift 1 cave shape, breakthrough into the existing subsidence crater was anticipated. The existing cave column and subsidence zone as well as waste dumps on surface, combined with limited access for the installation of caveback monitoring underground meant that the strategy and approach taken by Northparkes to monitor cave propagation during cave initiation and growth had to evolve over time. Assessing the airblast risk profile and production rates for cave growth was fundamental to the management of the cave and included non-conventional methods throughout the monitoring process This paper outlines the challenges encountered with monitoring cave initiation in cave extensions and highlights the methods adopted at various stages of data availability and understanding to support the safe management of the L1N cave extension. This includes the lessons learned for future cave extensions where similar limitations are experienced and strategic planning for mitigation of these limitations can be incorporated into the project.