Rill swell risk management in block caving

Authors: Lett, J; Cuello, D Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2435_D-03

Cite As:
Lett, J & Cuello, D 2024, 'Rill swell risk management in block caving', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 501-520, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2435_D-03



Abstract:
Cave propagation processes remain least understood despite the industry’s attempt to apply technology and numerical analysis. Why do some caving operations experience coarse, mixed, and fine fragmentation yet some experience many inrush events? These high impact events can be classified as wet or dry inrush events and have a major impact on safe production. This paper reviews the occurrence of dry inrush events called Rill Swells and what causes them including the methods used to maintain draw point safety.