Development of a DFN-based probabilistic block theory approach for bench face angle design in open pit mining

In open pit mining,uncontrolled block instabilities have serious social,economic and regulatory consequences,such as casualties,disruption of operation and increased regulation difficulties.For this reason,bench face angle,as one of the controlling parameters associated with block instabilities,should be carefully designed for sustainable mining.This study introduces a discrete fracture network(DFN)-based probabilistic block theory approach for the fast design of the bench face angle.A major advantage is the explicit incorporation of discontinuity size and spatial distribution in the procedure of key blocks testing.The proposed approach was applied to a granite mine in China.First,DFN models were generated from a multi-step modeling procedure to simulate the complex structural characteristics of pit slopes.Then,a modified key blocks searching method was applied to the slope faces modeled,and a cumulative probability of failure was obtained for each sector.Finally,a bench face angle was determined commensurate with an acceptable risk level of stability.The simulation results have shown that the number of hazardous traces exposed on the slope face can be significantly reduced when the suggested bench face angle is adopted,indicating an extremely low risk of uncontrolled block instabilities.

High precision slope deformation monitoring model based on the GPS/Pseudolites technology in open-pit mine

As the number and geometric intensity of visual satellites are susceptible to large slopes in open-pit mines, we propose integration of GPS/Pseudolites (PLs) positioning technology which can increase the number of visible satellites, strengthen the geometric intensity of satellites and provide a precision solution for slope deformation monitoring. However, the un-modeled systematic errors are still the main limiting factors for high precision baseline solution. In order to eliminate the un-modeled systematic error, the Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) theory is employed. The multi-scale decomposition and reconstruction architecture are defined here on the basis of the EMD theory and the systematic error mitigation model is demonstrated as well. A standard of the scale selection for the systematic error elimination is given in terms of the mean of the accumulated standardized modes. Thereafter, the scheme of the GPS/PLs baseline solution based on the EMD is suggested. The simulation and experiment results show that the precision factors (DOP) are reduced greatly when PLs is located suitably. The proposed scheme dramatically improves the reliability of ambiguity resolution and the precision of baseline vector after systematic error being eliminated, and provides an effective model for high precision slope deformation monitoring in open-pit mine.

Monitoring and Assessing Method for Blasting Vibration on Open-pit Slope in Hainan Iron Mine

A type of velocity sensor CD 1, an auto recording instrument on blasting vibration YBJ 1 and a random signal and vibration analysis system (CRAS) were used to monitor the particle vibration induced by blasting at open pit slope in Hainan Iron Mine. The attenuating rules of blasting ground vibration on slope were developed. By means of the analysis and calculation of the blasting vibration data at open pit slope and the vertical particle vibration velocity assessment method based on the concept of vibration strength, the empirical attenuating equations which can be used for predicting and estimating the damage of slope were derived.

Application of open-pit and underground mining technology for residual coal of end slopes

Given the conditions of residual coal from the boundary of a flat dipping open-pit mine,which uses strip areas mining and inner dumping with slope-covering,we propose an open-pit and underground integrated mining technology for residual coal of end slopes.In the proposal a conveyance road and ventilation conveyance near the slope are built,corresponding to the pit mining area and the surface coal mine dump,as well as an interval haulage tunnel and air-inlet tunnel.The outcome shows that such mining method may reduce the effect to slope stability from underground mining,it does not affect the dumping advance and has a high recovery rate of residual coal resources.The working face is timbered by single hydraulic props,transported by a scraper conveyor and supported by coal walls.This method of mining is one of layered top coal caving,with high resource recovery,low production cost where positive economic benefit can be realized.

Sensitivity analysis for parameters of a monitoring system for steep slopes of open-pit mines

Monitoring the stability of steep slopes of open-pit mines is a major issue relating to production safety in mines.In order to determine the technical parameters of a new type of supervising system applied in monitoring steep slopes of open-pit mines,the MSARMA method was used to establish analytical models for the monitoring system,given various parameter settings based on the description of mechanical monitoring principles.We used this sensitivity analysis to conclude that the setting of the most sensitive location of a mechanical monitoring system should be within a range of 1/5～1/2 of the lower part in a vertical direction of steep slopes,with a rational and feasible range of the dip angle setting between 0°～20°.Given the analytical results of our on-site experiments,we have shown that the parameters determined reflect the stability of steep slopes accurately and effectively.These conclusions provide a basis for the application of a new type of steep slope stability monitoring technology in open-pit mines.

Cut slope reinforcement technique in open-pit mines

The design and practice in supporting the cut slope of an open-pit mine wereintroduced, in which the high pressure grouting method was used in reinforcing the weak formation inthe slopes. Based on a detailed geological survey of the slope, a theoretical analysis was carriedout, and the design parameters were proposed, where the Tresca or Mohr-Coulomb yield criteria wasemployed. A patent technology, named 'Technology of high pressure and multiple grouting in differentlevels within a single hole', was employed in the construction. Anchor bars were also installed asgrouting proceeds. This method combines anchoring and grouting comprehensively and was foundsuccessful in practice.

Calculation of slope-cover height under price fluctuation in open-pit mines

Leaving ditches between adjacent mining areas can effectively reduce re-stripping in the latter mining area and simultaneously lead to an increment in internal dumping costs in the former mining area. This paper establishes calculation models for these two marginal costs. The optimizing model for slope cover height can be determined by including marginal cost models in the objective function. The paper has two main contributions:(a) it fully considers redistribution of dumping space in the model;(b) it introduces price fluctuations and cash discounts in the model. We use the typical open-pit mine as an example to test and prove the model. We conclude that a completely covered slope is reasonable in Haerwusu open pit mine; in addition to an increasing price index, the slope cover height can be reduced; and that price changes are one of the most important influencing factors of slope cover height optimization in an open-pit mine.

Stability analysis of open-pit gold mine slopes and optimization of mining scheme in Inner Mongolia,China

The geological structure of the Changshanhao open-pit mine in Urad Middle Banner,Inner Mongolia,China is extremely complicated,and slope instability has frequently occurred in various forms,such as wedge sliding,bedding sliding,and toppling failure.In order to study the failure mechanisms of these slopes,the geological structure and mechanical rock properties were investigated based on field investigations and laboratory tests.Numerical models for the present mining area and final mining area of the original scheme were established to analyze slope stability.The results showed that the unique geomorphological characteristics of the mining area were generated by geological tectonism,and the north side of the stope is an anti-dip layered rock slope and the south side is a dip layered rock slope.Slope failure is the consequence of endogenic and exogenic integration,including physical and mechanical properties of the rock mass,geological structures such as faults and joints,and human-caused factors such as blasting and excavation disturbances.Then the original excavation scheme was redesigned mainly by optimizing the slope angle and decreasing the final mining depth to maintain slope stability.Finally,the Monte Carlo method was used to analyze the reliability of the slope angle optimization scheme.The open-pit mine excavation plan that meets the stability requirements was obtained eventually.

GIS-based 3D limit equilibrium analysis for design optimization of a 600 m high slope in an open pit mine

Combining the GIS （geographic information systems） grid-based data with four proposed column-based 3D slope stability analysis models, a comprehensive solution of a high-steep open-pit slope has been obtained. For six searching ranges, 19 critical slip surfaces of different sizes have been studied, in which the minimum 3D safety factor is 1.33. Comparison of 3D safety factors of designed and proposed slope plans shows for all the critical slip surfaces for the proposed plan, the smallest 3D safety factor is 1.33 under the most unfavorable condition. This means that the proposed plan of the high slopes, about 600 m, of an open pit （2-5° steeper than designed plan） is feasible.

Stability analysis of the sliding process of the west slope in Buzhaoba Open-Pit Mine

To study the stability of the west slope in Buzhaoba Open-Pit Mine and determine the aging stability coefficient during slide mass development, the deformation band of the west slope and the slide mass structure of the 34,600 profile are obtained on the basis of hydrology, geology, and monitoring data.The residual thrust method is utilized to calculate the stability coefficients, which are 1.225 and 1.00 under sound and transfixion conditions, respectively. According to the rock damage and fragmentation and the principle of mechanical parameter degradation, the mechanical models of the slide mass development of the hard and soft rock slopes are established. An integrated model for calculating the slope stability coefficient is built considering water, vibration, and other external factors that pertain to the structural plane damage mechanism and the generating mechanism of the sliding mass. The change curve of the stability coefficient in the slide mass development is obtained from the relevant analyses,and afterwards, the stability control measures are proposed. The analysis results indicate that in the cracking stage of the hard rock, the slope stability coefficient decreases linearly with the increase in the length Lbof the hard rock crack zone. The linear slope is positively correlated to rock cohesion c. In the transfixion stage of the soft rock, the decrease speed of the stability coefficient is positively correlated to the residual strength of the soft rock. When the slope is stable, the stability coefficient is in a quadratic-linear relationship with the decreased height Dh of the side slope and in a linear relationship with anchoring force P.

Quantitative hazard assessment system(Has-Q) for open pit mine slopes

Rock slope hazard assessment is an important part of risk analysis for open pit mines.The main parameters that can lead to rock slope failures are the parameters traditionally used in geomechanical classifications,the slope geometrical parameters and external factors like rainfall and blasting.This paper presents a methodology for a hazard assessment system for open pit mine slopes based on 88 cases collated around the world using principal components analysis,discriminant analysis and confidence ellipses.The historical cases used in this study included copper,gold,iron,diamond,lead and zinc,platinum and claystone mines.The variables used in the assessment methodology are uniaxial compressive strength of intact rock;spacing,persistence,opening,roughness,infilling and orientation of the main discontinuity set;weathering of the rock mass;groundwater;blasting method;and height and inclination of the pit.While principal component analysis was used to quantify the data,the discriminant analysis was used to establish a rule to classify new slopes about its stability condition.To provide a practical hazard assessment system,confidence ellipses were used to propose a hazard graph and generate the HAS-Q.The discriminant rule developed in this research has a high discrimination capacity with an error rate of 11.36%.

The Influence of Earthquakes on Open-Pit Slope Stability

Estimation of stability of natural slopes, embankments, dams and open-pit slopes during earthquakes are complex and non-linear problems, therefore physical modeling is used for decision of it. As a result of physical modeling the pattern of seismic vibrations impact based on the movement process of probable collapse prism delineated by the most stressed plane of sliding has been established. Particular recommendations on the basis of safety factors selection in seismoactive zones are given.

Rock engineering property of the high-steep open-pit slope and its stability

According to the rock engineering property and stability of high-steep open-pitslopes, various factors were collected on the basis of rock engineering system (RSE) theory,and the interaction matrix of stability evaluation was established.Then, the stabilityevaluation index (S_p) of the slope was put forward.Ranges of the S_p value and the correspondingstable state were given on the basis of thirty-six samples.It is found that the followingrelationships exist: unstable (easy landslide): S_p<-0.20; mid-stable (may be landslide):-0.20<S_p<0.63; stable (no landslide): S_p>0.63.Finally, the stability evaluation indexwas applied on the high-steep open-pit slope of one mine.Analysis results and monitoringdata indicate that the index meets the necessity of the property of slope engineering, and ithas an important engineering purpose for landslide forecasting of high-steep slopes.

基于InSAR-COMSOL的露天矿边坡稳定性分析及形变预测

露天矿地表形变特征的快速、准确分析及形变趋势精准预测是推进矿山绿色安全生产的重要保障。针对当前形变监测技术存在的时空采样率低、成本高,预测模型参数难确定等问题,以东鞍山露天铁矿为工程背景,提出了一种融合短基线子集干涉测量(SBAS-InSAR)技术和COMSOL有限元模拟的边坡稳定性分析和形变预测一体化方法。首先,利用SBAS-InSAR技术处理2018年5月—2020年6月获取的62景Sentinel-1A升轨SAR数据,获取了该区域2 a内地表形变时间序列,分析了其形变时空演化特征。然后,采用COMSOL Multiphysics软件模拟外界强降雨影响下的典型沉降区域边坡稳定性状况,探讨了坡体损伤裂化规律及形变机理。基于此,利用粒子群算法(PSO)优化长短期时间记忆(LSTM)网络,搭建了形变时序预测最优模型,开展典型沉降区的形变时序预测,并引入平均绝对误差和均方根误差作为预测精度评价指标。结果表明:矿区西部沉降相对严重,年均沉降速率高达47.8 mm/a,形变速率与区域降雨量存在显著相关性。相较于传统形变预测模型,PSO-LSTM模型的2种误差至少降低了14%和36%,且能够有效反映采区地表形变波动趋势,为滑坡灾前预警提供了新思路。

露天矿高陡复杂边坡软弱岩层组“坐落-滑移式”破坏模式研究

边坡稳定性问题随露天矿开采的进行不断突出,而边坡软弱岩层严重影响边坡稳定性。大量工程实例显示,露天矿含软弱岩层组的高陡复杂边坡失稳模式通常为“坐落-滑移式”破坏。为明晰露天矿高陡复杂边坡软弱岩层组“坐落-滑移式”破坏模式的破坏机理,以某露天矿为例,提出一种针对露天矿含软弱岩层组高陡复杂边坡的综合分析方法。研究结果表明:采用工程地质分析、传统极限平衡方法和数值模拟分析相结合的综合分析方法,针对该类型复杂边坡可发挥不同分析方法的优势,较全面地从地质自然环境条件、定性定量方面、应力应变角度分析边坡破坏机理及模式,总结归纳出含软弱层组露天矿高陡复杂边坡“坐落-滑移式”破坏的“坐落-滑移-剪出”三段式破坏特征,为其他类似复杂边坡稳定性的分析和防治提供思路和手段。

露天矿边坡稳定性的层次分析-模糊综合评价耦合分析

露天煤矿台阶所构成的边坡对矿山资源生产及运输发挥着重要的作用,也承载着煤炭外运的任务,其稳定性对矿山连续生产具有重要意义。文章在边坡地质调查和监测信息分析的基础上,充分考虑边坡几何形态、地质信息、气象水文信息、现场监测信息等指标,以层次分析法确定边坡稳定性分析的指标权重,基于隶属度最大原则确定边坡稳定性状态,建立了多源信息融合的边坡层次分析-模糊综合评价模型。将该模型应用于扎哈淖尔露天煤矿北帮边坡稳定性分析中,最后基于数值模拟对模型进行了验证。研究表明,北帮边坡基本稳定,基于数值模拟得出扎哈淖尔露天煤矿北帮边坡滑移面安全系数为1.121,模型结果与数值模拟结果所得到的边坡稳定性状态吻合度较好,验证了模型的有效性。该模型可以充分考虑多重信息对边坡稳定性分析的贡献,从而更全面准确分析边坡稳定性。

基于SSA-BP的露天矿山边坡位移变形预测

针对传统的BP神经网络在预测露天矿山边坡位移变形时存在的局限性,构造了一种基于麻雀搜索算法(SSA)和BP神经网络相结合的边坡位移变形预测模型,先利用麻雀搜索算法对传统的BP神经网络进行权值与阈值的优化,再将麻雀搜索算法优化后的BP神经网络算法(SSA-BP)运用于露天矿山边坡位移的预测。为了验证算法的可行性,将SSA-BP预测模型与WOA-BP、BP以及Elman预测模型针对露天矿山边坡位移变形量的预测结果进行比较。实验结果表明:SSA-BP预测模型针对露天矿山边坡位移变形量的预测相比其他三种模型,其迭代速度快、寻优能力强;通过预测精度评价指标来看,SSA-BP算法的R2、RMSE、MAPE、MAE、MSE明显优于另外三组算法。为露天矿山边坡位移变形预测提供了一种新的思路和方法。

基于Geo-Studio的露天采场边坡稳定性研究

以卓成矿业石港矿区为工程背景,通过现场勘察和开采现状图选取最典型的边坡剖面,采用模拟软件Geo-Studio中的HH-Slope/W专业模块对边坡剖面进行极限平衡分析,得出了2个典型剖面在正常采动、爆破振动和爆破振动+地震力耦合作用等3种不同工况下的最危险滑移面位置和边坡安全系数。研究结果表明:(1)当东、西分区采场边帮采用Morgensern-price法计算时,在爆破振动和地震力耦合作用下安全系数分别为1.217和1.078,符合规范要求,边坡稳定性较高,且前者计算的安全系数比后者稍大;(2)随着工况荷载的增大,危险滑移面表现出向深部扩展的行为,稳定性逐步向临界失稳状态扩展。

Numerical investigations of rock bridge effect on open pit slope stability

In this study,the effect of rock bridges on rock slope stability was investigated by incorporating nonpersistent joint networks in numerical models,and the critical profiles of an open pit mine were analysed.Parallel deterministic networks of infinite and finite lengths,ubiquitous joint network model and Veneziano joint network model were used in order to simulate the rock fractures.Materials were modelled based on the generalised Hoek-Brown and equivalent Mohr-Coulomb failure criteria.The parallel deterministic infinite and the ubiquitous joint network models produced lower safety factors.The introduction of rock bridges along discontinuity planes in the parallel deterministic network and Veneziano joint network models significantly contributed to the stability and strain distribution,which should be considered in stability analysis of rock mass in open pit by rock slope practitioners.The results show the significance of joints in hard rock behaviour and the joints should be included in order to attain practical and realistic simulations.

Optimization of Slope Angle and Its Seismic Stability: A Case Study for the Proposed Open Pit Coalmine in Phulbari,NW Bangladesh

The present study reflects upon the results of substantial program of two-dimensional Finite Element Method(FEM) numerical analyses of the open pit that links to slope angle optimization associated with the safety factor of the pit slope of a coal mine in Bangladesh. In the present analyses, two types of models have been presented. The first model estimates safety factor without seismic effect on the overall pit slope of the model; the second model incorporates safety factor with seismic stability of the model. The calculated optimum slope angle of the first model is 31owith a rational safety factor of 1.51,prior to the seismic effect. However, the value is reduced to 0.93, 0.82, and 0.72, after we applies the seismic effect in the second model with M6, M6.5, and M7, respectively. Finally, our modeling results emphasize that for the case of the proposed Phulbari coalmine, there is extremely high prospect for causing massive slope failure along the optimum pit slope angle with 31oif the mine area felt seismic shaking,like the Sikkim(in northern India) earthquake with M6.9 on September 18, 2011.