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Module 1c Rock Engineering

The document outlines the functions and responsibilities of rock engineering services in the South African mining industry, emphasizing planning, design, monitoring, and training. Key duties include selecting mining techniques, designing support systems, and conducting routine inspections to ensure safety and stability. It also highlights the importance of research, technology transfer, and quality control in maintaining effective rock engineering practices.

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Matodzi Mei
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3 views14 pages

Module 1c Rock Engineering

The document outlines the functions and responsibilities of rock engineering services in the South African mining industry, emphasizing planning, design, monitoring, and training. Key duties include selecting mining techniques, designing support systems, and conducting routine inspections to ensure safety and stability. It also highlights the importance of research, technology transfer, and quality control in maintaining effective rock engineering practices.

Uploaded by

Matodzi Mei
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

MINN4016A

Rock Engineering
Introduction
(Module 1c)

“Unknown Miner” by Herman Prof Bryan Watson


Wald
Symbolic recognition of the contribution
by all who worked/work in the South
African mining industry and Wits
University’s educational role 13th February 2024
Tel 011 717 7410 1 of 24
Functions of rock engineering service

2 of 24
Basic duties

• Participate in planning
• Review and make recommendations related to risk
• Monitor, record and report
• Design
– Layouts
– Support
• Train

3 of 24
Planning and design function..

• Select mining techniques and regional support for particular deposit

• Develop strategies for COP

• Design all protection, control and support pillars

• Design shape, location and support for all service excavations

4 of 24
Planning and design function..
• Approve plans for mining sequence to ensure:

• Probability of seismic events are minimised

• Stability of off-reef excavations

• Support system suitable for current and anticipated


future rock conditions

• Precautions for remnant mining stipulated

• Where necessary monitor seismic activity, interpret


measurements and analyses effects

5 of 24
Planning and design function
• In bord and pillar mining

• Select bord width and design support system

• Design pillar dimensions

• Approve design of pillar extraction

7 of 24
Seismic emission monitoring function
• Develop strategy for mines COP to reduce incidence and
effects of rock bursts.

• Where bulk of ore reserves are in remnants periodically


conduct detailed analysis to determine mining sequence to
minimise risk.

• IMS – developed hazard analysis to forecast events


Routine monitoring and special
investigations
• Monitor pillars

• Regular visits to production and service workings

• Inspect important excavations e.g. pump station

• Monitor support performance

• Monitor unstable areas in shafts (South Deep Gold Mine WAF)

• Investigate unusual ground conditions


Routine monitoring and special
investigations..

• Investigate all rock related fatal and serious accidents

• Inspect all major FOG and rockbursts

• Give input into risk assessment matters pertaining to rock


related issues.

10 of 24
Responsibilities and functions of all
individuals and departments

• Specify responsibilities of individuals and departments

• Training programmes

11 of 24
Research and technology transfer

• Keep up to date of new technologies and techniques

• Update COP where necessary

12 of 24
Quality control

• Routinely conduct quality control testing of support


Training / examinations

• Assist with training of mines personnel in strata control


with particular emphasis on hazard identification
Questions?

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