Rock Mechanics Practices and Experiences at Xstrata Mount Isa Copper Operations

Authors: Esterhuizen, HCJ; Slade, N; Sloane, JL Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/808_148

Cite As:
Esterhuizen, HCJ, Slade, N & Sloane, JL 2008, 'Rock Mechanics Practices and Experiences at Xstrata Mount Isa Copper Operations', in Y Potvin, J Carter, A Dyskin & R Jeffrey (eds), SHIRMS 2008: Proceedings of the First Southern Hemisphere International Rock Mechanics Symposium, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 201-218, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/808_148



Abstract:
The underground mining environment at Mount Isa Copper Operations (MICO) has over the years presented interesting and challenging rock mechanics related issues. Within the same orebody there can be vast differences in how the rock mass behaves. Factors such as rock type, composition, geological structures, support quality and induced stress changes from past and current mining can have a significant influence on how the overall rock mass will behave. Recently there have been several examples highlighting the influence of these on the rock mass. In order to control rock mass behaviour, good quality support is important. Over the years there have been numerous examples of support testing and support improvements at Mount Isa Mines. More recently additional work was done on cable bolts and corrosion of ground support.

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