An overview of numerical modelling in forecasting infrastructure stability and ground support behaviour applied to cave mining

Authors: Ghazvinian, E; Fuenzalida, M

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DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2465_43

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Ghazvinian, E & Fuenzalida, M 2024, 'An overview of numerical modelling in forecasting infrastructure stability and ground support behaviour applied to cave mining', in P Andrieux & D Cumming-Potvin (eds), Deep Mining 2024: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Deep and High Stress Mining, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 699-712, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2465_43

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Abstract:
As deeper orebodies are targeted for exploitation using caving methods, the mining footprints are set at greater depths. Extraction levels set at depths greater than 1,000 m are becoming a norm in existing operations and future projects. These depths require better understanding of rock mass conditions as well as the complex caving-induced stresses impacting the developments through the life of mine (LoM) but, in reality, caving mine footprints are designed and constructed when there is limited orebody knowledge. Numerical models provide the means to combine recent developments in the generation of geotechnical block models that provide an understanding of rock mass strength heterogeneity across the footprint with the predicted cave-induced stresses as a function of draw strategy to forecast infrastructure stability and ground support performance during the LoM. The level of numerical assessment for excavation stability and forecasting support behaviour depends on the stage of study, the information available at that stage and how vital the underground infrastructure is for the operation. This paper describes the natural progression of numerical modelling workflow from concept study to pre-feasibility, feasibility study and, lastly, the construction stage. The outputs that can be expected from the numerical models at each of those stages pertinent to ground support design are discussed, with consideration given to the rock mass behaviour hosting the infrastructure.

Keywords: cave mining, numerical modelling, infrastructure stability, ground support

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