Chinakal Institute of Mining, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia:

A. M. Freidin, Chief Researcher, Professor, Doctor of Engineering Sciences
S. A. Neverov, Senior Researcher, Candidate of Engineering Sciences, nsa_nsk@mail.ru
A. A. Neverov, Senior Researcher, Candidate of Engineering Sciences
A. I. Konurin, Junior Researcher, Candidate of Engineering Sciences

Based on the systematized experimental evaluations of the mechanical conditions, tectonic structures and physico-mechanical characteristics of rock masses, the authors have developed forecasting procedure for stress–strain state versus depth of rocks. The boundary conditions determined to correctly formulate applied geomechanical problems minimize uncertainties and errors of mine planning. The research findings have enabled typification of geomechanical conditions for ore bodies and classification of tectonic types of rock masses and the related models of rock masses based on type of their stress state. Application of rock mass models at the mine planning stage allows advanced reliability of selection of safe technology and its parameters for underground ore mining. The offered approach has been tested in planning of steep gold ore mining down to a depth of 800 m and more below ground surface. The stress–strain state forecast and geomechanical assessment of ore extraction technology using sublevel drifts at a depth of 800 m shows that the design parameters of the mining system meet the safe mining standards: safety pillars, crowns and pillars established between material handling declines have safety factors 1.3, 1.4 and more than 1.25, respectively. The main tool of the procedure is the classification of tectonic types of rock masses relative to their stress state and the design models of rock masses. It is intended to use the procedure at the stage of deep mine planning in order to assess all solutions and select safe geotechnologies, designs and parameters for ore mining based on criteria of structural weakening and strength of rocks.
The study was supported by the President of the Russian Federation, Grant No. 14.122.13.5000-MK.

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