Support Appropriate for Dynamic Loading and Large Static Loading in Block Cave Mining Openings

Seismicity associated with deep block cave mining operations in hard rock can give rise to dynamic loading of the mining openings. A description is given of the source and damage mechanisms associated with such seismic events, and the possible demands placed on the rock support by the resulting dynamic loading. In addition, production level drifts are often subjected to large static deformations during mining. Appropriate support, able to sustain large static deformations, and capable of absorbing the energy released during dynamic loading, is described. The performance of these support types has been determined by means of large-scale dynamic loading tests, and large deformation static laboratory tests. Finally, a support system which is considered to be appropriate for extraction drifts in block cave layouts subjected to dynamic loading is described.