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By V. Jovicic, J. Likar

The knowledge of the geological sequence and hydrological conditions in the area of portals was the basis for the design of the entry of the highway into tunnel Trojane. Mudstone, claystone and sandstone dominate the rock layering, which is tectonically reworked and contains structural anomalies. The complexity of the sequence makes it impossible to survey all the relevant features along the full 3km length of the tunnel. Sudden and frequent transitions between litological sequences impose potential instabilities and make the excavation of the tunnel particularly difficult. The initial survey established the zones of potential failures. These were monitored using topographic survey and inclinometers with an aim to make further geotechnical analyses more reliable and adjusted to the ground conditions. The analyses of the wall construction and the results of the monitoring showed that the design of the retaining wall was adequate. La connaissance de la séquence géologique et des conditions hydrologiques dans l'aire des portails a été la base pour la planification de l'entrée de l'autoroute dans le tunnel Trojane. Le schiste, l'argilite et le grès dominent la couche rocheuse qui est tectoniquement transformée et contient les anomalies structurales. A cause de la complexité de la séquence, il est impossible de revoir toutes les particularités le long des 3 kilomètres de la toute longueur du tunnel. Les transitions soudaines et fréquentes entre les séquences lithologiques imposent l'instabilité potentielle et font l'excavation du tunnel particulièrement difficile. La revue initiale a été établie sur les zones où il existe l'éboulement potential. Elles étaient contrôlées à l'aide de la revue topographique et de l'inclinomètre pour que les analyses géotechniques suivantes soient plus sûres et adaptées aux conditions du sol. Les analyses de la construction des murs et des résultats du contrôle ont montré que la planification du mur réteneur était correspondante. Der Autobahneingang in den Trojane Tunnel war projektiert auf Basis von der Kenntnis der geologischen und hydrogeologischen Bedingungen in dem Portalgebiet. Das Gebiet besteht aus dem Tonstein und dem Sandstein. Die Schichten sind tektonisch verformt und sind deswegen sehr heterogen. Die anfaenglichen Untersuchungen haben die Zonen von den potentiellen Bruechen definiert. Weitere geotechnische Analysen waren fitted an reale geologische Bedingungen durch das Monitoring der potentiellen Bruchzonen, welches aus den topographyschen Messungen und Inklinometerdaten entstand. Die Analyse des Wandbaues und die Resultate von dem Monitoring haben erwiesen, dass die Wandprojektierung entsprechend war.

Jan 1, 2003

By W. Biermann

All industrial processes are economically driven, resulting in the ever increasing need for process optimization in order to stay competitive and profitable. Numerous models has been published depicting the optimization of the raw material usage in an arc furnace, as well as the thermal and electrical efficiency; however, to obtain a holistic view of the cost-effectiveness of the process one needs to expand the model to include the cost of all the operational variables. This project therefore aimed to not only include the raw material feeds and power consumption as input variables, but also the labour, maintenance, and environmental costs to generate an all-inclusive financial balance. In the end, the model was able to mathematically optimize the ferrochrome (FeCr) production process through evaluating the effect of a specified combination of input parameters. It could therefore be used as a tool to aid in managerial decision-making; to appraise and correspondingly adjust certain operational variables in order to achieve a maximum return on investment. This paper fully describes the reasoning behind the choice of the essential model components, the assumptions made during the models development, the calculation approach, as well as the advantages, limitations, possible applications, and areas for expansion of the final model. Through running simulations with plant data, it was found that the accuracy of final model remained fairly constant when applied to stable furnace conditions, but was met with a number of limitations when applied to more complex situations. These limitations could, however, be overcome through further development and expansion of the existing model to include a larger number of process variables.

Jan 1, 2012

By B. Ndlovu

The world mineral industry has over the years experienced growth in the production of nickel (Ni) due to its use not only in the catalytic industry but mainly also to its demand in the stainless steel production industry. Hence there is a need to produce more pure and marketable grades of Ni through the use of efficient purification routes such as solvent extraction. The V10-LIX®84-IC system resulted in nickel (Ni) extraction isotherm shifting to lower pH levels. The pH window of opportunity for the extraction of Ni subsequently increased in solution containing magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) even though the system also resulted in slight shifts to less positive pH values for Mg and Ca curves. Results showed a synergistic effect of LIX®84-IC when added to V10 for all elements, Ni, Mg and Ca. The pH50 values for elements Ni, Mg and Ca in the V10-LIX®84-IC system were 2.95, 8.10 and 7.70 respectively. Comparing results obtained when using V10 alone produced ?pH50 for Ni, Mg and Ca being 3.35, 0.15 and 0.70 respectively, which was a confirmation of the synergistic shifts for all the elements. The ?pH50 (Mg-Ni)value was 1.95 with no synergism and 5.15 with synergism and that for ?pH50 (Ca-Ni)was 2.10 with no synergism and 4.75 with synergism. This showed that the Ni-Mg separation factor was relatively larger than the Ni-Ca. Improved loading and stripping kinetics were also observed. Keywords: Nickel solvent extraction separation, magnesium, calcium, versatic 10 acid and LIX®84-IC.

Jan 1, 2008

By D. J. Adams, W. K. Rymon-Lipinski

Rock engineering plays a crucial role in contributing to sustainable development in South African mining. A framework for this has been created through legislation and structures to encourage the mining industry to have a long and prosperous future. However, rock engineering input is an essential element to achieving success. The most accessible deposits have been mined in South Africa and although large reserves still remain, many of these are difficult to access and will require excellent rock engineering knowledge and skill in the future. This is borne out by the fact that more than 50 % of fatal accidents are related to rock engineering issues. Many of these may be addressed with rock engineering solutions which are not beyond current rock engineering technology. A reduction in fatalities and injuries contributes to a sustainable mining industry.

Jan 1, 2003

In this study, the effects of slag compositions, slag amount, temperature, and carbon content of steel on the manganese and phosphorus distribution ratios during converter steelmaking were analysed using the classical regular solution theory, and industrial tests were performed using two 80 t top-and-bottom combined blown converters (duplex melting process). The results indicate that the slag amount, temperature, and carbon content in steel are the main factors affecting the manganese yield when converter slag compositions remain constant. The FeO content of the slag has a strong impact on the manganese distribution ratio, while the slag basicity and MgO content have no obvious effect. The calculations and experimental results show that the phosphorus distribution ratio increases sharply with increasing slag basicity R, but then decreases with the increase of MgO and MnO contents in the slag. The final slag in converter steelmaking should have the following characteristics: 3.5 < R < 4.5, 15% < (FeO) < 20%, and 6% < (MgO) < 8%. The slag amount should be controlled appropriately at the same time. The results of this investigation would be useful in deciding on the application of manganese ore in alloying and identifying the slagging regime in converter steelmaking.

Jan 1, 2014

By M. Hakala

A computer program was developed to simulate transient strains and stresses during an overcoring in the situ stress measurement. The solution is based on superpositioning of elastic stresses. The measured strains can be compared with the calculated ones to check if the measured transient behaviour is accordant with the interpreted in situ state of stress. If not, the in situ state of stress can be calculated based on any transient or final strain values. The transient stresses can be compared with the strength envelope of intact rock and thereby estimate the core damage potential. Technically, the developed code fulfilled all the objectives, and the numerical error was found to be less than 5%. The basic idea can be applied also for different overcoring probes with minor modifications and recalculation of stress tensors. The analysed case studies showed clearly the advance of having an objective and practical quality control method to study the reliability of the in situ stress measurement data. The study was set up and funded by the nuclear waste management companies Posiva Oy ( Finland ) and Svensk Kärnbränslehantering AB ( Sweden ). Un programme informatique a été développé pour simuler des tensions et des contraintes passagères pendant la mesure in situ de contrainte de surcarottage. La solution se fonde sur une superposition de contraintes élastiques. Les contraintes mesurées peuvent être comparées avec celles calculées pour vérifier si le comportement passager mesuré correspond à l&apos;état de contrainte in situ interprété. Sinon, l&apos;état de contrainte in situ peut être calculé à partir de n&apos;importe quelle valeur de contrainte passagère ou finale. Les contraintes passagères peuvent être comparées avec l&apos;enveloppe de force de roche intacte et ainsi il est possible d&apos;évaluer le potentiel de dégâts au noyau. Techniquement le code développé a rempli tous les objectifs, et le taux d&apos;erreur s&apos;est révélé être inférieur à 5 %. L&apos;idée de base peut être appliquée aussi pour différentes expériences de surcarottage avec des modifications mineures et le recalcul de tenseurs de contrainte. Les études de cas analysées ont montré clairement l&apos;avantage d&apos;avoir une méthode de contrôle de qualité objective et pratique pour étudier la fiabilité de données de mesure de contrainte in situ. L&apos;étude a été fondée et financée par les sociétés de gestion de déchets nucléaires Posiva Oy (Finlande) et Svensk Kärnbränslehantering AB (Suède). Es wurde ein Computerprogramm entwickelt, um Transient-Beanspruchungen und Spannungen während eines Überentkernens in situ-Spannung-Messung zu simulieren. Die Lösung beruht auf Superpositionierung von elastischen Spannungen. Die gemessenen Beanspruchungen können mit den berechneten Daten verglichen werden, um nachzuprüfen, ob das abgemessene Transient-Verhalten mit dem interpretierten in situ-Zustand der Spannung übereinstimmt. Wenn nicht, kann der situ-Zustand der Spannung auf irgendwelchen Transient- oder endgültigen Beanspruchungswerten berechnet werden. Die Transiet-Spannungen können mit dem Stärke-Umschlag des intakten Felsens verglichen werden und dadurch ein Kernbeschädigungspotential kalkulieren. Technisch erkannte der entwickelte Code alle Ziele und hat gefunden, dass die numerische Fehler weniger als 5 % waren. Grundsätzlich können auch verschiedene Überentkernen-Untersuchungen mit kleineren Modifizierungen und Wiederberechnung des Spannung-Tensors angewandt werden. Die analysierten Fallstudien zeigten deutlich den Fortschritt, objektive und praktische Qualitätskontrollmethode zu haben, die Zuverlässigkeit in Situ-Spannung-Messung-Daten zu studieren. Die Studie wurde aufgestellt und durch Atommüll-Management-Firmen Posiva Oy (Finnland) und Svensk Kärnbränslehantering AB (Schweden) finanziert.

Jan 1, 2003

By J. -C. Trickett

The high-resolution three-dimensional (3-D) seismic reflection data acquired for Impala Platinum between 1998 and 2002 in the western Bushveld Igneous Complex form an integral part of Impala?s mine planning and development programme. These data are of sufficiently high quality to provide unprecedented 3-D models of the geological structure of the Merensky Reef and UG2 Chromitite Reef, from which the mine deduces the size, geometry and distribution of mineable blocks. Conversely, the seismic data details zones of un-mineable ground caused by structural disturbances in the form of potholes, fault zones and pegmatoid intrusions. Furthermore, variations in dip and strike are well imaged, allowing the mine planners to optimize the mine design and layout. Current interpretation work is focused on enhancing the accuracy of these geological models even further through the analysis of ?seismic trace attributes.? Preliminary testing on the Impala Platinum 3-D seismic volume has shown that attribute analysis has the potential to illuminate a number of geological reef disturbances that are otherwise ?invisible? in the original seismic time volume. Potential areas of improvement include inter alia: ?Improved definition of major fault zones ?Improved definition of zones of reef depression (?slumping?) ?Identification of reef terracing and/or reverse dip. Keywords: 3-D reflection seismics; Impala Platinum Ltd; seismic attribute analysis; seismic micro technology (SMT); rock solid attributes; dip-azimuth; instantaneous phase and similarity.

Jan 1, 2005

By F. Cihangir, A. Kesimal, K. Karaman, B. Ercikdi

Uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and shear strength parameters(cohesion and angle of internal friction, Cand F) of rocks are important parameters needed for various engineering projects such as tunnelling and slope stability. However, direct determination of these parameters is difficult and requires high-quality core samples for tests. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the applicability of the Brazilian test (BT) - a simple, less sophisticated and inexpensive method for both specimen preparation and testing - to estimate the UCS and shear strength parameters of rocks. Thirty-seven rock types were sampled and tested, 24of which were volcanic, 8 were metamorphic, and 5 were sedimentary. Statistical equations were derived to estimate the UCS and shear strength parameters of rocks using the BT. The validity of the statistically derived equations was confirmed using predictive analytics software (PASW Statistics 18). A strong linear relation was found between BT and UCS values. BT and UCS values exhibited prominent linear correlations withthe cohesion values of rocks. The Mohr envelope was also used to determine the cohesion and friction angle of rocks using BT and UCS values. It is deduced from the current study that the BT values can be used to estimate the UCS and cohesion. However, no relation was observed between the angle of internal friction values and the UCS and BT for all rock types. Therefore, different approaches are suggested for the estimation of the internal angle of friction for application in the preliminary design of projects.

Jan 1, 2015

By U. Singh, E. T. Brown, J. Coxon

The rapid fracturing and deformation that occurs around excavations during rock bursts demand that support and reinforcement systems have both deformability and damping capabilities. The energy demand and supply approach currently used in design is considered to be too simplified to represent adequately the rock burst process and the support and reinforcement system requirements. Momentum change may be a necessary second criterion for the analysis of dynamic loading situations. At the St Ives Gold Mining Company, DE plates made from conveyor belt rubber, and dynamic cables with sliding anchors have been developed and used to improve the dynamic performance of support and reinforcement systems. La fracturation rapide et la déformation qui se produisent autour des excavations lors de coups de terrain demandent que les systèmes d’armature et de support soient déformables et aient une capacité d’amortissement. L’approche basée sur l’énergie actuellement utilisée pour la conception est considérée être trop simplificatrice pour représenter adéquatement les coups de terrain et les paramètres de conception des systèmes d’armature et de support requis. Le changement de quantité de mouvement pourrait être un second critère nécessaire pour l’analyse des cas de charge dynamnique. St Ives Gold Mining Company a développé et utilisé des plaques « DE » constituées de caoutchouc de courroie de convoyeur et des câbles dynamiques avec ancrage coulissant afin d’améliorer la performance dynamique des systèmes d’armature et de support. Die ploetzliche Rissbildung und Verformung, die sich in Baugruben waehrend eines Felseinbruchs ereignet, verlangt Stuetz- und Verstaerkungssysteme, welche verformbare und mildernde Eigenschaften aufweisen. Die derzeitlich gebraeuchliche Methode den Entwurf auf den Energiebedarf und dessen Abdeckung zu basieren, wird als eine unannehmbare Vereinfachung betrachtet, da sie den Felseinbruch und die benoetigten Unterstuetzungs– und Verstaerkungssysteme unzulaenglich darstellt. Die Aenderung der Umstaende kann einen zweiten Ansatz fuer die Analyse der Lastsituation erforderlich machen. Die St.Ives Gold Mining Company hat DE Platten aus Foerderband-Gummi und elastischen Kabeln mit verschiebbaren Verankerung entwickelt und dazu verwendet, die dynamische Kapazitaet der Unterstuetzungs- und Verstaerkungssysteme zu verbessern.

Jan 1, 2003

Abstract : The computation of reliability index or failure probability of slopes can be transformed into an optimisation problem. In high rock slope engineering, it is usually a multimodal optimization problem. The traditional optimization techniques are difficulty to find out the global optimal solution because of their easily falling into local optimal value. Recently, a new kind of bionic algorithm - ant colony algorithm (ACA) - has been used to solve this problem. In this paper, the structure of ant colony algorithm and the transfer probability of ants are modified to evaluate the failure probability of complicated slopes. A new adaptive ant colony algorithm (AACA) is proposed to determine critical slip surface and its corresponding failure probability of complicated slopes. A case study is given to verify the proposed approach. The results show that the presented method has obvious advantages compared with traditional methods. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG: Die Rechnung des Zuverlaessigkeitindexes oder der Zerstoerungswahrscheinlichkeit kann sich in einer Optimierungsfrage umwandeln, im Bauprojekt an hoehe Gebirgehang, handelt es sich meistens um eine Optimierungsfrage ueber Multi- Spitzenwert. Mit der traditionelle Optimierungsmethode ist es schwer eine umfassende Loesung fuer die Optimierung zu finden wegen des leichte Verfallens in Beschraenkung der Teiloptimierungsloesung. Mit dem neue Bionik- Algorithmus —— Ameisen - Kolonie- Algorithmus wird dieses Problem geloest. In diesem Text hat man eine Strukturverbesserungsloesung fuer das Ameisen- Kolonie -system und die Wahrscheinlichkeit der Ameisenkolonie erwaehnt, und damit wird man die Zerstoerungswahrscheinlichkeit des komplizierte Hangs feststellen. Mit dem neuen Ameisen- Kolonie- Algorithmus kann man die gefaehrlichste Gleitflaeche und die entsprechende Zerstoerungswahrscheinlichkeit herausfinden. Die in diesem Text beschriebene Methode wurde durch Praxis geprueft. Durch die Pruefergebnisse wurde es gezeigt und bestaetigt, dass der neue Bionik- Algorithmus vorteilhafter als der traditionelle Algorithmus ist. Résumé : Le calcul de l’indice la fiabilité ou de la probabilité de ruptures peut être transformé en un problème de l’optimisation. Pour le cas du génie des pentes de haut rocher , le problème se pose en général en l’optimisation de multi-crêtes. Les techniques traditionnelles conduisent facilement à la solution optimal partielle au lieu de celle globale. Récemment un nouveau type de bionique algorithmique a été appliqué pour la solution de ce genre de problèmes, c’est l’Algorithme Colonie de Fourmis. Dans l’article il est proposé de modifier la structure du système de la colonie de fourmis et la probabilité de transfert des fourmis en vue d’évaluer la probabilité de ruptures des pentes de haut rocher complexes, par ailleurs un nouveau algorithme adapté de colonie de fourmis est formulé pour déterminer la surface glissante critique et la probabilité de ruptures correspondante. Les techniques proposées dans l’article sont vérifiées à travers des expérimentations dont les résultats ont prouvé que les techniques présentées dans l’article sont évidemment meilleures que celles traditionnelles.

Jan 1, 2003

By Y. Wang, S. Sridhar, B. Coletti, G. N. Shannon, S. Vantilt

The final removal of inclusions in the ladle, tundish, and mold in a continuous casting process involves the kinetic steps of liquid film drainage, interface rupture, and absorption of the inclusion into the overlaying molten slag. During this process, oxide inclusions can undergo chemical reactions with the slag. This paper presents recent results on imaging the slag/steel interface and elucidates the evolution of Al2O3and Al2O3-CaO inclusions during their separation from the steel and on their incorporation into the slag. Experimental results, obtained through a Confocal Scanning Laser Microscope, are compared with thermodynamic predictions.

Jan 1, 2004

By C J. de Beer

The Kwaggashoek East pit is one of the four production areas of Thabazimbi Iron Ore Mine. The Kwaggashoek East Open pit mines through the abandoned sublevel caving operations of the Kwaggashoek East underground workings. A risk assessment indicated that the primary risk is the occurrence of surface subsidence. Based on local knowledge, a hypothesis, that most of the cavities were filled with broken rock as a result of roof collapse and bulking of failed material was formulated. To test the hypothesis a number of geophysical methods as well as probe drilling was utilized. The results of the resistivity, gravity and ground penetrating radar surveys were inconclusive in determining the position of voids. Either there were no voids present or the resolution of the surveys was not high enough to pick it up. It is accepted that only small voids remained, and that the supported roof hypothesis is valid. As a precautionary measure all the production blast holes within the caving area were over-drilled by forty percent. This would collapse the roof of any small voids or tunnels immediately below the block. This operation proved to be successful as two of the three underground levels have been mined out with no subsidence occurring in the pit floor.

Jan 1, 2006

By Z. Saw, C. Poveda, N. L. Mai

Optimising the throughput of a mining network comprising all equipment from shovels to semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) mills is a complicated task, yet the potential benefits can be significant. Key modelling challenges stem from the sheer number of possible routes which material can travel, different equipment operating under different constraints, and the rate of SAG mills being calculated through a nonlinear function of the blended materials’ rock attributes. Nevertheless, this is an ideal onapplication area of mathematical programming, a branch of operations research. This paper describes an application of mixed integer linear programming (MILP) to optimise the mining equipment network of one of the world’s largest copper mines.The model takes as input a year-long monthly mine schedule of shovels in different pits, pushbacks, sequences and faces which produce material to be moved through a network of crushers, conveyors, silos, distributors, stockpiles and SAG mills, ultimately outputting a daily operational plan for all equipment that maximises the throughput of the network. All operational constraints and business rules are considered, including three quality attributes of copper ore. Comparing model results with actual data shows an improvement of 4.47% in network throughput tonnage. Additionally, although the model is solved using a free, open-source solver, optimal solutions are still achieved within a practical timeframe.

Sep 1, 2021

By Noel C. Joughin

In making judgements on tolerable levels of risk in industry, and in all spheres of life, it needs to be understood that every action gives rise to risk. Without risk, nothing can be done. Without risk, no economy could be advanced. There is a strong tendency to emphasize the risk at work, but persons who are not working are exposed to a different set of risks. Often persons who are not working face greater risks than persons who are working. Simply, in being alive, one is exposed to the risk of an accident, the risk of contracting a disease, and an extremely diverse variety of other risks. According to the Health and Safety Executive of the UK, it is not possible to have a state of zero risk, because ?a state of zero risk does not exist?. Because zero risk is a physical impossibility, it is not possible to design for a state of zero risk in all engineering design. While the strategic target of achieving zero risk is laudable it does not provide any practical guidance to engineers as to what acceptable limits of risk should be. This causes a significant and real problem in the design for and the management of risk. Without meaningful guidelines, engineers, managers and the authorities often find themselves in disagreement. Thus, it has become essential to establish criteria for tolerable levels of risk and unacceptable levels of risk in order to design and manage engineering systems properly.

Jan 1, 2011

By F. Lombard

We consider the Grubbs estimation of the precision of an online gauge. Typically, this type of estimation involves independent results from two or more reference instruments (sampling and laboratory analysis operations). The properties of the estimator are then independent of the product variability. However, the use of more than one reference instrument entails significant additional costs. The two-instrument Grubbs estimator, which is based on results from a gauge and a single reference instrument, has the disadvantage that its standard error is heavily dependent on the degree of product variability. We propose a new estimator that has a variance that is more or less independent of product variability. In fact, the variance is typically less than that of the Grubbs estimator based on the use of two reference instruments. In order to function successfully, our methodology requires some prior knowledge of the extent of product variability and of gauge precision. In practice, such prior knowledge is often available and it is a weakness of the traditional two - and three-instrument Grubbs methods that no use is made of such knowledge. The efficacy and robustness of the new method is illustrated by Monte Carlo simulation.

Jan 1, 2012

By D. Vogt

A brief summary of the propagation characteristics of rock provides the necessary understanding to design effective radar surveys. Measurements of the electrical properties of the major Bushveld platinum-bearing horizons and their host rocks show that radar is an excellent tool for both short -and longer-range mapping. Experimental work confirms the performance predictions. High frequency, 500 MHz ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is a first-rate tool for mapping features in the hangingwall of the orebody, locally known as a ?reef?, for the purposes of determining hangingwall stability. The triplet chromitites above the UG2 have been clearly mapped, as has the Leader Seam above the UG2. Borehole radar at lower frequencies has been used over longer ranges to map reef elevation. Potholes in the UG2 are clearly distinguished in range and elevation to within metre accuracy. The nature of the slump in the various footwall horizons is also apparent. In future, as GPR is routinely applied, it is likely to become used for other purposes. Borehole radar is being developed to operate at higher frequencies, which will allow it to be deployed from boreholes that are within 5 m of the target horizon. Keywords: GPR, borehole radar, Bushveld Complex, UG2, Merensky, pothole, triplet

Jan 1, 2005

By J. P. Harrison

ABSTRACT: The significant effect of fracture surface morphology on the mechanical behaviour of rock masses is well known and has been studied by many people. For linear profiles taken from fracture surfaces, short- and long-period variation has traditionally been described using the descriptors ‘roughness’ and ‘waviness’, with Fourier series analysis being perhaps the most commonly used technique to distinguish between the two attributes. However, the mathematical procedure is involved and the assumptions that have to be made may not be appropriate for rock fracture surfaces. In this paper, an alternative method is presented that enables us to distinguish between roughness and waviness of a linear profile by performing only one straightforward analysis. In our technique, surface morphology is studied in terms of the distribution of unit normal vectors to the profile. The statistical analysis of the distribution is performed using Riemannian, rather than the customary Euclidean, geometry, and from this the 1D Riemannian dispersion parameter (DR1) is obtained, which quantifies the geometry of the profile. The method is applied at different scales to both synthetic sinusoidal profiles and real rock profiles. The results show how periodic behaviour of the profile is revealed at scales where DR1 is substantially equal to zero. RESUME: L’influence significative de la morphologie des épontes sur le comportement mécanique des massifs rocheux est bien connue et a fait l’objet de nombreuses études. Pour les profils lineraires, les variations de courtes et longues périodes sont traditionnellement décrites par les indicateurs “rugosité” et “ondulation” qui sont le plus couramment distingués à l’aide d’une analyse en series de Fourrier. Cependant, la méthode de calcul utilisée et les hypothèses faites ne sont pas appropriées dans le cas des épontes rocheuses. Cet article présente une méthode alternative qui permet de distinguer la rugosité de l’ondulation d’un profil en réalisant une seule analyse directe. Avec notre technique, la morphologie de l’éponte est étudiée comme une distribution spatiale de vecteurs normaux au profil. L’analyse de cette distribution est réalisée à l’aide de la géométrie Riemannienne plutôt que la géométrie classique Euclidienne et permet d’identifier la dispersion Riemanienne en 1D (DR1) qui quantifie la géométrie du profil. Cette méthode est appliquée à différentes échelles sur des profils artificiels sinusoïdaux et des épontes naturelles. Les résultats montrent que le comportement périodique du profil est révélé à des échelles où DR1 est essentiellement égal à zéro. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG: Der signifikante Effekt von Bruchoberflaechen Morphologien auf das mechanische Verhalten von Gesteinsmassen ist gut bekannt und von vielen Bearbeitern untersucht worden. Traditionel lineare Profile von Bruchflaechen sind mit kurz und lang periodischen Variationen, die auch als “Rauhigkeit” und “Welligkeit” bezeichnet worden sind, beschrieben worden. Hierbei ist wohl die Fourier Serien Analyse das wichtigste Hilfsmittel zur Unterscheidung der beiden Attribute gewesen. Hierfuer wird jedoch ein mathematisches Prozedere verlangt und Vorraussetzungen gemacht, die vielleicht nicht fuer Gesteinsbruchflaechen zutreffend sind. In dieser Publikation wird eine andere Methode vorgestellt, die uns mit Hilfe nur einer einfachen Analyse erlaubt zwischen “Rauigkeit” und “Welligkeit” bei einem linearen Profil zu unterscheiden. In unserer Methode wird die Gesteinsoberflaeche unter zu Hilfenahme der Verteilung von Einheitsnormalvektoren beschrieben. Die statistische Analyse der raeumlichenVerteilung dieser Vektoren wird mit Hilfe der Riemannschen, anstatt der ueblicherweise benutzten Euklidischen, Geometrie durchgefuehrt. Von ihr wird der Riemannsche Dispersions Parameter (DR1) abgeleitet, der die Geometrie des Profils quantifiziert. Diese Methode ist bei verschiedenen Masstaeben sowohl auf rein harmonische (sinusoidale), syntetische Profile als auch auf Gesteinsprofile angewendet worden. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass bei Masstaeben bei denen DR1 nahe Null ist periodische Characteristika der Profile hervortreten.

Jan 1, 2003

By M. Hakala, P. Tolppanen

A method to predict stress-induced failures around excavations based on the mapped geological and rock mechanical information is studied. Totally of 7 km of newly excavated tunnels are mapped in the Inmet’s Pyhäsalmi mine in Finland at depth between 1000 - 1440 m from which the results and conclusions from the firstly mapped 1.7 km of tunnels are reported. The main rock type at the site is very hard volcanite having uniaxial compressive strength of 230 MPa in median and GSI-value 72 - 80. The maximum in situ stress around the tunnels is 65 - 85 MPa. The prediction of observed stress failures was preceded by comparing elastic 3-D simulation results of tunnels with three statistical yield criteria. Read’s or Hoek & Brown’s yielding criteria are found the most relevant, though, the effect of anisotropy was found to be significant. The most important parameters having a correlation with stress failures are the tunnel orientation and the foliation of rock. Also, the rock type and its strength, tunnel shape and the geological anomalies have their effects. Further, a delay time on mapping was found to clearly diminishing of the most violent failures. Une méthode de prédiction des contraintes à la rupture autour d&apos;excavation, établie sur la base de cartographie géologique et d&apos;information sur la mécanique des roches, à été étudiée. Au total, 7 km d&apos;un tunnel nouvellement percé à une profondeur de 1000 à 1400 m ont été cartographiés dans la mine de Inmet’s Pyhäsalmi en Finlande. La roche principale du site est une vulcanite dur ayant une résistance à la compression uniaxiale de 230 MPa (valeur moyenne) et une valeur GSI de 72 - 80. La contrainte in situ maximale autour du tunnel se situe entre 65 et 85 MPa. La prédiction des contraintes à la rupture observées a été évaluée en comparant les résultats d&apos;une simulation 3D d&apos;un tunnel avec trois critères de limite d&apos;élasticité statistiques. Le critère de limite d&apos;élasticité de Read ou de Hoek & Brown’s se trouvent être les plus important, même si les effets de l&apos;anisotropie sont significatifs. Les paramètres les plus importants ayant une corrélation avec la rupture sont l&apos;orientation du tunnel et la foliation de la roche. De plus, le type de roche et sa résistance à la compression, la forme du tunnel et les anomalies géologiques ont aussi leur importance. Finalement, un délai dans la cartographie résulte en une diminution nette des ruptures violentes. Basierend auf kartierten geologischen und felsmechanischen Informationen, wird eine Methode untersucht, um spannngsbedingtes Versagen um Ausbrüche herum vorherzusagen. Insgesamt werden 7 km neu ausgebrochenen Tunnels in einer Tiefe zwischen 1000 und 1400 m in der Inmet Pyhäsalmin Mine in Finnland kartiert. Das hauptsächlich vorkommende Gestein ist sehr hart und vulkanischen Ursprungs mit einer mittleren einachsialen Druckfestigkeit von 230 MPa (Medianwert) und einem GSI-Wert von 72-80. Die maximale In-situ-Spannung im Tunnel beträgt 65-85 MPa. Die Vorhersage von beobachteten Spannungsversagen werden weitergeführt indem man elastische 3-D-Simulationsergebnisse von Tunneln mit drei statistischen Fliesskriterien vergleicht. Read&apos;s oder Hoek&apos;s Fliesskriteria werden dabei als die relevantesten Kriterien angesehen, obwohl auch der Effekt der Anisotropie als wesentlich erachtet wird. Die wichtigsten Parameter für eine Korrelation von Spannungsversagen sind die Orientierung des Tunnels und die Schieferung der Gesteinsschichten. Desweiteren haben Gesteinsart, Tunnelprofil und geologische Anomalien ihren Einfluss. Ausserdem zeigt sich, dass eine Verzögerung bei der Kartierung die ausgeprägtesten Versagen deutlich verringern.

Jan 1, 2003

By S. Escoffier, A. Giraud, K. Su, F. Homand, N. Hoteit

Abstract For the feasibility study of an underground waste disposal the characterization of the coupled behaviour of the host rock is required: Because of the very low permeability of these formations few experimental data are generally available. In this framework the uses of the sensitivity studies could orient the experimental efforts by highlighting the key parameters of the formation. This paper gives a first approach of the sensitivity studies performed with probabilistic methods in the geomechanical field. A one dimensional model which characterizes the thermohydromechanical response of an argillaceous rock to the excavation of a waste canister site and its setting up, is considered. Zusammenfassun Die Machbarkeitsstudie eines tiefliegenden Endlagers für radioaktive Abfälle beinhaltet die Untersuchung des gekoppelten Verhaltens des im Lagerbereich anstehenden Gesteins. Aufgrund der sehr geringen Wasserdurchlässigkeit dieser Formationen liegen häufig nur wenige experimentelle Angaben vor. Die Verwendung von Sensibilitätsstudien kann in diesem Zusammenhang als Hilfsmittel zur Entscheidungsfindung dienen. Dabei sollen die maßgeblichen Eigenschaften der Formation festgestellt werden, anhand derer der Umfang der experimentellen Erkundung festgelegt werden kann. Dieser Artikel stellt einen ersten Ansatz zur Durchführung von Sensibilitätsstudien mittels einer mechanisch-probablistischen Kopplung im Bereich der Geomechanik sowie die Vorteile gegenüber Parameterstudien vor. Zur Abbildung des thermohydromechanischen Stoffverhaltens von tonigem Fels während der Schachterstellung und der Einlagerung der Abfälle wird ein eindimensionales Model verwendet. Résumé L&apos;étude de faisabilité d&apos;un centre de stockage de déchets radioactifs en profondeur passe par la caractérisation du comportement couplé de la roche hôte. Du fait de la très faible perméabilité de ces formations, souvent peu de données expérimentales sont disponibles. Dans ce cadre l&apos;utilisation d&apos;études de sensibilité permettrait d&apos;orienter les efforts expérimentaux en faisant ressortir les caractéristiques primordiales de la formation. Cet article présente une première approche de la réalisation d&apos;études de sensibilités à l&apos;aide de couplages mécano-fiabilistes dans le domaine de la géomécanique. Un model unidimensionnel caractérisant la réponse thermohydromécanique d&apos;une roche argileuse au creusement d&apos;un puit de stockage et à la mise en place de conteneurs de déchets est considéré.

Jan 1, 2003

By M. Visser

Keywords: Pyrometallurgy, furnace, ferrochrome, Samancor, ferrochrome process Samancor Chrome has been, and continues to be, a major player in ferrochromium production. The company has a proud history and possesses benchmark technology and operations. Currently five business units are operating: two sets of mines and three smelter plants. Samancor Chrome produces around one million tons of charge chrome annually. Chrome ore, intermediate-carbon ferrochrome, and low-carbon ferrochrome, form part of the portfolio. Electrode paste is also manufactured through a joint venture with Highveld Steel and Vanadium. Samancor Chrome has a balanced approach towards operational strategy, and has entered into a number of joint venture partnerships. Through its access to quality raw materials, knowledge, and experience of various production technologies, and its strategic abilities, Samancor Chrome is well positioned to reap the benefits from opportunities in the current and future industry context.

Jan 1, 2006