Back analysis of caving propagation in macroblocks N1S1 and S02 through numerical models

Authors: Vidal, R; Vallejos, JA; Cuello, D; Vásquez, P; Castro, D; Farias, E Download Paper

Cite As:
Vidal, R, Vallejos, JA, Cuello, D, Vásquez, P, Castro, D & Farias, E 2024, 'Back analysis of caving propagation in macroblocks N1S1 and S02 through numerical models', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 592-599.



Abstract:
In the context of the Chuquicamata underground mine project (PMCHS), two continuous numerical models were developed and calibrated using the FLAC3D software and employing the CaveHoek constitutive model. These models focus on the caving initiation and propagation of the macroblocks N1S1 and S02. In the case of macroblock N1S1, the cave initiation and propagation mechanics was evaluated. Meanwhile, for macroblock S02, the impact of the mass blasting of barrier pillar (between the N1S1 cave and S02 macroblock) on the breakthrough to the Chuquicamata open pit was investigated. The models successfully reproduce the propagation and breakthrough to the open pit of both macroblocks. Some of the key findings of both models are: The caving mechanics of both macroblocks was successfully represented in the models; The rapid breakthrough of macroblock S02 after was induce by the mass blasting of barrier pillar.