Large Scale Dynamic Testing of Rock Support System at Kiirunavaara Underground Mine

Abstract

A series of five large scale dynamic tests were conducted at the LKAB Kiirunavaara mine using explosives to generate the dynamic load on the support system. This was done with the aim of developing a testing methodology for in situ testing of ground support. Furthermore, the response of the installed rock support system to strong dynamic loading was evaluated. The tests included ground motion measurements, fracture investigation, ground and support motion imaging, as well as deformation measurements. The results indicated that the relation between the burden and the used amount of explosive had a vital role in either reducing or involving the effect of the detonation gases in the test results. In addition, the type of explosive which was used in the tests had a great impact on minimising the gas expansion effects. Higher peak particle velocities were measured compared to those of similar large scale tests carried out in other countries. However, the level of induced damage was limited to a fractured zone behind the support system and propagation of cracks in the shotcrete. Measured peak particle velocities were used to calculate the kinetic energy transmitted to the fractured zone of the test wall. The energy absorption by the Swellex, reinforced shotcrete and weld mesh was estimated by measuring the elongation/deflection of the support elements and relating these measurements to previously conducted laboratory tests. The comparison of maximum estimated energy absorbed by support system with the maximum estimated kinetic energy indicated that as the support system is still functional, the energy is partly reflected back to the surrounding rock. The results of the measurements in Tests 1, 2, 4 and 5 are presented in this paper and the methodology used to design the tests is discussed.