Engineering Geology

Engineering Geology

Engineering Geological Analysis and Modeling of Excavations in the medium depth, Venarch Manganese Mine (Qom)

Authors
Mohammad Zainali 1
Mohammad Reza Asef 1
Ruholah Nadri 2
1 Kharazmi University
2 Payam Noor University
10.22034/JEG.2024.18.1.10422
Abstract
This paper investigates the application of geomechanical and geological engineering methods to determine the optimum working face width for the safe and efficient extraction of manganese ore extraction at the Venarch Mine (Qom Province, Central part of Iran). The underground workings on the west face (240m depth) present significant geotechnical challenges due to the presence of faults, clay seams, and loose rock layers. These features require careful careful stability analysis to ensure the safety and economic viability of the underground mining operation. This study uses three established methods for rock mass classification and stability assessment. The Rock Mass Rating (RMR) classification system, the Q-system (Barton), and the numerical analysis using Plaxis 3D software. A robust and data-driven approach to determining the optimum workshop width was achieved by employing a synergistic combination of these three methods, together with meticulous ground observations and expert engineering judgement. This framework offers a powerful tool for determining the optimal and safe workshop width for this sector of the mine. By capitalizing on the strengths of each methodology, this research aims to establish a data-driven and informed decision-making process to ensure a stable and economically viable approach.
Keywords
Venarch
Manganese
Rock mass classification
Rock Mass Rating (RMR) system
Finite element numerical model
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