Research on Optimization and Numerical Simulation of Layout Scheme of Mining Approach in Downward Slicing and Filling Method

Abstract

The stability of the filling roof—as an important bearing unit in the stope of the access stope in the filling mining method—is of great significance to guarantee the safe and efficient production of the mine. Arrangement of the mining approach in downward cemented filling stope is the key factor affecting the stability of the filling body roof. Based on a combination of laboratory tests, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation, the influence of different mining approach arrangements on the stability of the filling body roof is analyzed. The weak filling surface is formed between adjacent mining paths. The mechanical strength of the weak filling surface is significantly reduced by laboratory experiments. The relationship between the distribution of the weak filling surface, azimuth angle, and the stability of the filling roof is further studied by numerical simulation. The results show that, when the upper and lower layered mining approaches are arranged vertically or nearly vertically, the areas of stress concentration and the plastic zone in the numerical simulation results are the smallest, and the stability of the filler roof is the best.