Scientific Quarterly Journal of Iranian Association of Engineering Geology

Scientific Quarterly Journal of Iranian Association of Engineering Geology

The role of structural joint studies in design of economic extraction and stability analysis of rock face of decorative stone mines

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Assistant Professor, Mining Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Mining Engineering, University of Birjand, Birjand,
Abstract
Profitable production of decorative stone depends on the dimensions of the extractable block. Identifying, discontinuities modeling, their role in mining operation, instability and sliding of blocks are important parameters in mine design. The shape and volume of sub-blocks obtained from mine exploitation are challenging issues in mining operations, which are controlled by the three-dimensional model of the discontinuity. Failure to pay attention to this issue leads to many problems such as severe crushing of stone blocks and low extraction efficiency. In this research, an extraction optimization approach has been used for decorative stone mines. 3D block model was made for different directions of extraction working face. For each direction, the number and volume of sub-blocks were calculated. Blocks with a volume of less than 2 cubic meter were considered as waste and the percentage of recovery was calculated. Face alignment with azimuth of 15 degrees that led to the largest volume blocks production was suggested as the optimal face direction. Stability analysis of the face was done. There was no possibility of plane and toppling sliding, but there was a possibility of wedge sliding. The stability analysis showed that there is a possibility of wedge slide in other stretches as well, which was expected due to the jointing of the rock mass. Therefore, the face direction with the highest percentage of recovery, considering the safety of wedge failure, was suggested for the mine extraction plan.
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Volume 17, Issue 2
Autumn 2024
Pages 47-61

  • Receive Date 11 March 2024
  • Revise Date 17 April 2024
  • Accept Date 14 June 2024