Operational open pit ground support design at Rainy River Mine

Authors: Boileau, S; Saunders, E; Kamp, C Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2535_22

Cite As:
Boileau, S, Saunders, E & Kamp, C 2025, 'Operational open pit ground support design at Rainy River Mine', in JJ Potter & J Wesseloo (eds), SSIM 2025: Fourth International Slope Stability in Mining Conference, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2535_22



Abstract:
Open pit design utilises core-logging and mapped discontinuity data to kinematically determine the optimal geotechnical slope designs. However, with the demand for steepening of open pit slopes to optimise strip ratio, some shallower discontinuities may create unfavourable kinematic conditions that require additional risk mitigation to support steeper slope angles. This paper presents a case study from Rainy River Mine in Northern Ontario, where kinematic controls on wedge and planar stability failure mechanisms were assessed, and stabilising rockbolt patterns were designed. A practical approach is presented for collecting high-quality slope scan data using drone photogrammetry and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) techniques, generating detailed representations of potential slope risks. Utilising RocScience’s RocSlope3 numerical modelling code (software), accurate 3D models of the slope profiles were developed, incorporating discrete discontinuities, orientations, and persistence model inputs. The Factor of Safety resulting from RocSlope3 models are compared to simplified slope profiles modelling techniques in RocScience SWedge and RocPlane. Fit-for-purpose stabilising rockbolting patterns are prepared to meet design acceptance criteria. This case study emphasises the importance of integrating widely available scanning techniques to develop representative 3D models, which are critical to develop effective stabilisation solutions of complex sliding failure geometries.

Keywords: open pit, geotechnical, ground support, bolting, kinematics

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