The effect of varying testing configurations on the performance of welded mesh

Authors: Crompton, B; Raj, R; Jones, M; Akdag, S

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2625_19

Cite As:
Crompton, B, Raj, R, Jones, M & Akdag, S 2026, 'The effect of varying testing configurations on the performance of welded mesh', in D Cumming-Potvin & J Wesseloo (eds), Ground Support 2026: Proceedings of the 11th International Conference on Ground Support in Mining, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-11, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2625_19

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Abstract:
Mine mesh is a surface support element commonly used in underground mining and plays a critical role in controlling loose material, retaining fractured rock, limiting progressive unravelling around excavations, and maintaining the inherent support capacity of the rock mass. Published test results and product specifications are typically derived from laboratory scale testing used to simulate in situ conditions. This laboratory testing is conducted with varying fixing conditions, loading configurations and sheet sizing. This paper presents the test results from research which revisits the effect of commonly used laboratory testing configurations on measured mesh performance and compares these results to quasi-static testing on full-size mesh sheets fixed in a typical underground bolting configuration. The results from this research form the basis of a recommended testing configuration and process for future product development and testing.

Keywords: surface support, mesh, fixing conditions, full-scale testing, support capacity, testing configuration

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