Simplified Pre- and Post-Processing Technique for Performing Finite-Element Analyses of Deep Underground Mines

摘要

Two of the major ground control safety issues confronting underground mine operations today are shaft pillar stability and the failure of rock around active mine openings. Failure of a mine shaft can lead to the entrapment of workers. Failure of rock around active underground mine openings can lead to roof falls, which in turn can result in worker injuries and fatalities. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate one technique developed at the Spokane Research Center that allows the user to create a finite-element model of a two-dimensional section of an underground mine in a relatively straightforward manner. This model is then used to calculate stresses, displacements, and safety factors around mine openings. With this information, mine planners can evaluate the stability of mine openings as well as the stability of pillars and mine shafts. This analysis will help develop mining sequences and layouts that minimize stresses in that section of the mine. This, in turn, should minimize the occurrence of shaft failure, roof falls, and other hazards associated with underground mining.