Bord and pillar design for the UG2 reef containing weak alterations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17159/Abstract
This paper proposes a layout design for the UG2 reef where weak geological alterations are present. The collapse of the Everest Platinum Mine in South Africa indicated that these alterations substantially weaken the pillars. The popular Hedley and Grant pillar strength formula cannot be used where these alterations are present. Underground investigations at Everest Mine and numerical modelling of the layout were conducted using the TEXAN code and a limit equilibrium model. Simulations of a collapsed area and an intact area allowed for a preliminary calibration of the model. This was subsequently used to explore modified layouts for these ground conditions. An alternative is to compartmentalise the blocks of ore using barrier pillars. The numerical modelling predicted that the barrier pillars will remain stable, even for large-scale collapses, provided their width exceeds 25 m. Main access routes into the mine can be protected by a double row of pillars at least 15 m wide to provide for a safe travelling way. As a cautionary note, these conclusions are based on the model calibration and this needs to be refined in future. Calibration of the limit equilibrium model remains a challenge owing to the large number of parameters involved.Downloads
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