Practical approach to determine the role of tendons in a support system in South African mines
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17159/Abstract
Excavations of different sizes and shapes created in underground mining require the installation of support for the excavation to remain open and stable. Tendons represent one of the components of rock support and are widely applied throughout the mining and civil engineering sectors. In a case study conducted on a mine in the Vaal River area of South Africa (Witwatersrand Basin), research was carried out to evaluate the effect that two particular aspects of tendon support have on the mine’s support system. These include the angle of inclination of the tendon relative to the orientation of the rock surface, and the protruding length of the tendon. A keyblock analysis approach indicated that a very low probability exists for such failures in strike gullies owing to tendons installed at a flat angle and to protruding tendons, and therefore that these factors do not have a negative impact on the stability of the gullies. This was confirmed by the results of systematic observations made in the mine.
Whilst safety is the primary concern, cost saving opportunities can be realised through reconsidering historically inherited support standards that are perceived to be correct and appropriate, without compromising safety. The research described in this paper describes a practical approach, that is easy to implement and repeatable, to evaluate the role of tendons in a support system.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Jean Pierre Gouvea
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