Investigation of slope stability for a section of Phelps Dodge Sierrita mine

J. Um, B. Morin, P. H.S.W. Kulatilake

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

The first part of the paper deals with the development of a three-dimensional mine visualization model for a section of the mine. Discontinuity orientation, location, including the three-dimensional coordinates of start and ending points were taken directly from this visualization model for use in slope stability analyses. The results of the laboratory tests performed on samples obtained from the mine to estimate shear strength properties of discontinuities and properties of intact rock are discussed in the second part of the paper. The third part of the paper is focused on the results obtained for maximum safe slope angles for the section considered of the mine based on the kinematic and block theory analyses conducted under only the gravitational forces using the mapped discontinuities at the mine. The effects of water that exist in the rock mass, a tension crack, slope face inclination, overall wedge height and double benching on factor of safety of wedge stability are illustrated through limit equilibrium slope stability analyses conducted on a single tetrahedral wedge belonging to "potential key block" category that exist in the investigated area of the mine.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationDC Rocks 2001 - 38th U.S. Symposium on Rock Mechanics (USRMS)
Editors Elsworth, Tinucci, Heasley
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)
Pages967-974
Number of pages8
ISBN (Print)9026518277, 9789026518270
StatePublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes
Event38th U.S. Symposium on Rock Mechanics, DC Rocks 2001 - Washington, United States
Duration: Jul 7 2001Jul 10 2001

Publication series

NameDC Rocks 2001 - 38th U.S. Symposium on Rock Mechanics (USRMS)

Other

Other38th U.S. Symposium on Rock Mechanics, DC Rocks 2001
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityWashington
Period7/7/017/10/01

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geophysics
  • Geochemistry and Petrology

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