Substantiating the rock mass control parameters based on the geomechanical model of the Severny Katpar deposit, Kazakhstan

Abstract

Purpose. The research purpose is to develop a geomechanical model for ensuring the safety of mining operations by determining the optimal slope angles and probabilistic assessment of the stability of the open-pit walls. Methods. Three-dimensional geomechanical models for surface mining of deposits have been developed based on calculations of the stability factor (safety factor SF) of the open-pit walls in the Rocscience program to determine the rock mass stress-strain state at the end of mining using the finite element method. The geological wireframe model (GWM) has been built on the basis of the available geological sections, horizon plans and the results of the engineering-geological surveys using the Surpac geoinformation system. Findings. Strength reduction factor (SRF) has been determined taking into account the physical-mechanical properties of rocks that constitute the near-wall mass. An assessment of the stability of walls according to the selected geological sections is given, taking into account the projected contour of the Severny Katpar open-pit walls. The calculation of the projected contour stability of the open-pit walls by several different methods has revealed that the open-pit walls are generally stable. The open-pit parameters at the end of mining have been determined. Originality. For the first time, it has been determined that in the Southern and South-Western area of the Severny Katpar open-pit wall in the horizons +700…+400, there is a decrease in SF from 1.18 to 1.41 due to the predominant occurrence of siltstones and tectonic disturbances of the walls. Practical implications. The mathematical calculation results of the stability of the projected contour walls in the Severny Katpar open pit have been generalized. In addition, a geological and structural wire-frame model of the deposit has been developed, which makes it possible to ensure the safety of mining operations in the open pit.