Application of Numerical and Block Geomechanical Modelling to Determine Parameters of Large-Section Chambers

The study is exemplified by complex workings of a main ore pass that include a variety of underground structures, usually with unique dimensions which depend on the function and size of the equipment placed. The technical solutions for the underground crushing plant and associated structures envisage construction of chambers with the height of up to 35 m and the width of up to 20 m at the depths exceeding 800-1000 m. Such conditions call for a closer attention to be paid to the mine support parameters, especially the bolting depth. A block geomechanical model was designed in the Micromine Mining Software for the rock mass of the new main ore pass. Geotechnical boreholes logs and results of physical and mechanical rock tests were used as the input data for the model. Four domains were identified in the block geomechanical model for subsequent numerical modelling. A 3D model of the stress-and-strain state of the rock mass was made using the CAE Fidesys software based on the Micromine wire-frame model of the main ore pass. The history of the rock mass incremental loading was reconstructed for correct simulation of its stress-and-strain state. Prior to the excavation, the rock mass is pre-stressed by the weight of the rock strata. The excavation phase was then simulated in the stepwise manner. An array of points with the values of maximum principal stresses was downloaded from the numerical model post-processing program and interpolated into the block geomechanical model to refine the SRF parameter of the Barton's Q rating. Based on the obtained Q values, the mine support parameters for chambers were determined using the Barton, Hutchinson and Potvin empirical methods.

Plugging and Its Stability Evaluation for the Ore Pass in the Nonempty Condition Based on Controllable Grouting of Cement-Sodium Silicate Grout

Aimed at the problem to plug the main ore pass with the large collapse at Xingshan Iron Mine, the viscosity-time test and the heap perfusion test of cement-silicate grout in a loose rock mass are carried out. The relationship between the vertical diffusion distance of cement-silicate grout and setting time of grout is studied, and research results are applied to the design of plugging engineering of the main ore pass in -330 m. Based on the numerical simulation of the plugging structure and the long-term stress monitoring of the cable sensors, the stability of the plugging structure itself and the control for the movement of shafts nearby are comprehensively evaluated. The test results show that for a specific loose rock mass, the vertical diffusion distance of cement-silicate grout in the loose rock mass is a power function of grout setting time. Based on the design concept to plug the main ore pass with the large collapse using artificially constructed “bite-bonded arch,” the plugging design and construction procedures are proposed. A numerical model and long-term monitoring of cable stress show that the plugging structure is stable and has an obvious effect on the control movement of abutment shafts.