BLOCK CAVING INDUCED SUBSIDENCE
FLAC3D simulation of full 3-D reconstruction of the San Manuel mine and subsidence crater up to 1972 (Left). Displacement contours on a long section through the orebody after mining of the first 9 panels along with a 3D iso-surface of displacement magnitude highlighting the location of initial breakthrough (Right); work by C. O'Connor, Itasca Canada.The ability to predict surface subsidence associated with block caving mining is a critical factor for both mining planning and operational hazard assessments (Figure 2). Current approaches to assessing surface subsidence associated with block caving mining, including empirical, analytical and numerical methods are briefly reviewed in this section.
The Laubscher's method (Laubscher, 2000) is the most commonly used empirical method for estimating subsidence parameters in cave mining. This empirical approach is based on a design chart that relates the predicted cave angle to the MRMR (Mining Rock Mass Rating), density of the caved rock, height of the caved rock and mine geometry (minimum and maximum span of a footprint). However, it is argued that determining the density of the caved rock represents a difficult undertaking resulting in an inherent degree of built-in uncertainty. Furthermore, the approach does not account for the effects of major geological structures which may influence the dip of the cave angle. Estimates of the angle of break need to be adjusted for local geological conditions, thus requiring sound engineering judgment and experience in similar geotechnical settings. Whereas the Laubscher's design chart constitutes a useful tool for preliminary estimates of the angle of break, its application to design and subsidence predictions should be exerted with caution.
Analytical methods include limit equilibrium solutions for specific failure mechanisms. For instance, Hoek (1974) developed an initial limit equilibrium model for the analysis of surface cracking associated with the progressive sub-level caving of an inclined orebody. Flores & Karzulovic (2004) summarised the most common analytical methods, failure modes and techniques currently available for block caving mining, with a particular emphasis on the transition from open pit to underground mining.