Applications of a computer model to the analysis of rock-backfill interaction in pillar recovery operations : Sinclair, T J E; Shillabeer, J H; Herget, G Proc Conference on the Application of Rock Mechanics to Cut and Fill Mining, Lulea, 1–3 June 1980, P339–351. Publ London: IMM, 1981

Abstract

This paper describes the application of a computer model to the analysis of backfill stability in pillar recovery operations with particular reference to two case studies. An explicit finite difference computer program was developed for the purpose of modelling the three-dimensional interaction of rock and backfill in underground excavations. Of particular interest was the mechanics of stress transfer from the rock mass to the pillars and then the backfill. The need, therefore, for a model to allow for the three-dimensional effects and the sequence of operations is evident. The paper gives a brief description of the computer program, descriptions of the mines, the sequences of operations and how they were modelled, and the results of the analyses in graphical form. For both case studies, failure of the backfill was predicted at certain stages. Subsequent reports from the mines indicate that such failures did not occur at the relevant stage. The paper discusses the validity of the model and concludes that the approach accurately represents the principles of rock mechanics in cut-and-fill mining and that further research should be directed towards determining the input parameters to an equal degree of sophistication.