Purpose. The research purpose is to develop a geomechanical model for ensuring the safety of mining operations by determining the optimal slope angles and probabilistic assessment of the stability of the open-pit walls. Methods. Three-dimensional geomechanical models for surface mining of deposits have been developed based on calculations of the stability factor (safety factor SF) of the open-pit walls in the Rocscience program to determine the rock mass stress-strain state at the end of mining using the finite element method. The geological wireframe model (GWM) has been built on the basis of the available geological sections, horizon plans and the results of the engineering-geological surveys using the Surpac geoinformation system. Findings. Strength reduction factor (SRF) has been determined taking into account the physical-mechanical properties of rocks that constitute the near-wall mass. An assessment of the stability of walls according to the selected geological sections is given, taking into account the projected contour of the Severny Katpar open-pit walls. The calculation of the projected contour stability of the open-pit walls by several different methods has revealed that the open-pit walls are generally stable. The open-pit parameters at the end of mining have been determined. Originality. For the first time, it has been determined that in the Southern and South-Western area of the Severny Katpar open-pit wall in the horizons +700…+400, there is a decrease in SF from 1.18 to 1.41 due to the predominant occurrence of siltstones and tectonic disturbances of the walls. Practical implications. The mathematical calculation results of the stability of the projected contour walls in the Severny Katpar open pit have been generalized. In addition, a geological and structural wire-frame model of the deposit has been developed, which makes it possible to ensure the safety of mining operations in the open pit.
Purpose is to identify the basic joint systems, their characteristics, distribution within the rock mass, and determine impact of the joints on the bench stability. Methods. The risks of strain emergence in the form of blocks sliding along weakness surfaces within the local areas were determined based upon the definition of rock stability loss. The results of large-scale measurements of jointing were processed using circular and bar diagrams as well as stereographic grids. In the context of the paper, kinematic analysis was implemented through Dips Rocscience Inc. Software. Findings. Five basic joint systems have been identified; joints of 2nd and 5th systems are the most commonly encountered among them. The results of the jointing determination within the open pit boundaries have been represented as well as the open pit wall stability in terms of each site inclusive of consideration of potential strains along the sliding surface. Originality. For the first time, zoning of the open pit wall in terms of slide types has been performed. It has been identified that potential shear of a prismatic block is 33%; at the same time, 66% are bench destruction with the block toppling. The risk of wedge-shaped block shear is minimal. Practical implications. The research findings may be helpful to define and select both parameters and conditions of safe mineral extraction under the specific mining and geological conditions. In turn, the abovementioned will help reduce the risk of accidence while providing scientifically substantiated approach to select quarrying sequence, techniques, and system.
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