A novel approach for mobile kentledge loading in plate load tests on coal mine-over burden dumps

Abstract

Acute space crunch in the mining places lead to use of overburden dumps for rehabilitation and construction of new structures. Evaluation of stability and bearing capacity is of prime concern in utilization of these overburden dumps for further construction activities. In this study, the use of novel mobile plate load test for determining the bearing capacity of mine over burden dumps is discussed in detail. Conducting conventional plate load tests with traditional kentledge load is a costly, time-consuming, and necessitate huge workmanship. To overcome these setbacks, in this study the mine-excavator is modified to mobile kentledge loading arrangement. Using this novel approach, the time for testing is reduced by about 90% and the cost of work is reduced by about 200% with safe working environment. Further, the bearing capacity results are compared with the corresponding values obtained through standard Terzaghis estimation methods. Results obtained through Terzaghis method are found to be over conservative compared to the in-situ Plate load test evaluations. Thus, through this study it is recommended to perform enough plate load tests to conclude the actual bearing capacity and settlement of mine over-burden dumps that are non-homogenous and filled in an unscientific manner. Further, the safe ultimate bearing capacities were used for understanding the safety against capacity enhancement for probable rise in height of mine over burden dumps.