Enhancing preconditioning strategies in block and panel caving

Authors: Catalan, A; Onederra, I Download Paper

Cite As:
Catalan, A & Onederra, I 2024, 'Enhancing preconditioning strategies in block and panel caving', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 438-452.



Abstract:
In block and panel caving, effective cave initiation and subsequent propagation are crucial for operational success. To mitigate inherent risks and address site specific geotechnical uncertainties, cave-induction techniques, such as preconditioning, are employed with the aim to enhance cave propagation and extraction processes. These techniques include hydraulic fracturing and confined blasting. This paper presents insights gained from more than 15 years of implementing preconditioning techniques in mass mining operations, focusing particularly on the concept of intensive preconditioning of massive ore bodies. The paper documents two specific case studies, providing a snapshot of the implementation process. The paper also highlights key gaps in our current understanding and argues that despite the reported benefits of preconditioning, there still uncertainty associated with the adoption of one technique over the other, or the simultaneous application of both (i.e. intensive preconditioning). Doubts arise mainly from the challenge of adequately quantifying their impact on caving mechanics. The paper concludes with a brief discussion on our learnings from applied research and identifies the focus of a new research partnership that will help bridge the gap between research and operational excellence for future caving operations.