Abstract

MATHEY, M.. Modelling coal pillar stability from mine survey plans in a geographic information system. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2018, vol.118, n.2, pp.157-164. ISSN 2411-9717.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/2018/v118n2a9.

A practical method for analysing the individual stability of large numbers of pillars in bord-and-pillar workings based on mine survey plans is outlined. The procedure aims at modelling pillar safety factors and failure probabilities under tributary area loading assumption in a geographic information system. The mining dimensions and geometries, as available from mine survey plans, are processed in a quasi-3D mine model. Analytical solutions are implemented in the model so as to predict the stability of each individual pillar and its time-dependent deterioration due to scaling. Thus a dynamic analysis is achieved, which gives a good estimate of the risk associated with abandoned mine sites over time. The results can be projected back onto mine survey plans in order to provide an overview of the areal distribution of stability and instability in the underground panels. The limitations and accuracy of the model are discussed. The proposed pillar stability model is applied to real mining situations, including a case of pillar collapse, so as to verify the validity of the technique.

Keywords : pillar stability; safety factor; GIS; modelling.

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