Numerical methods for estimating the stability of unsupported spans for highwall mining

TL;DRAbstract

Maximum unsupported spans for highwall mining at an Australian coal mine have been estimated using UDEC numerical models with explicit bedding planes in the siltstone roof strata and a Voronoi tessellation to represent potential cracks in the siltstone material. The tensile strength for siltstone is shown to be a critical parameter, with a small but non-zero value being required for the models to produce the expected mode of roof failure, initiated by separation on bedding planes. The predicted stability of single and multiple spans then matches well results from an empirical method based on precedent experience.

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