Geotechnical applications in open pit mining

Detailed geotechnical data is often a major unknown factor in open pit design and mining, the lack of which constitutes a significant risk in any mining venture. As geotechnical data is accumulated so the risk of unforeseen conditions reduces, and so safety and productivity can be increased. Previously, most geotechnical work undertaken at open pit mines has focused on the slopes. The work done at Sandsloot open pit situated on the northern limb of the Bushveld Complex, 250 km north east of Johannesburg, however, has involved using geotechnical data for production, as well as slope stability benefits. Solutions to production problems encountered in a rapidly developing open pit are best formulated once some geotechnical control at the pit has been attained. At Sandsloot open pit this was achieved by delineation of geotechnical design zones from a detailed face mapping and drilling programme. Optimum design parameters then were assigned to these zones and geotechnically related problems assessed. This allowed slope management programmes to be initiated, as well as slope optimization of the hangingwall. The latter resulted in an improved slope configuration and an increase in the ultimate angle of the wall by 7°. This resulted in substantial savings, as well as an improvement in safety. In addition, the zones can be used for planning, costing and pit scheduling. The methods have proved successful in optimizing blast fragmentation and thereby loading, crushing and milling rates; in reducing secondary blasting and improving floor conditions; and in reducing drilling, blasting and comminution costs.