Numerical Methods in Analysis of Slope Stability

Abstract

Slope stability is an important factor in a design and operation of an open pit mining, quarrying, civil engineering excavation projects and other geotechnical engineering. This paper presents capabilities of a limit equilibrium methods and a finite element method for analysis of slope stability problems in mining. It is described geometry of model, material input parameters, Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion, loading and boundary conditions required to adequately model of slope failure. Two models are analyzed with the finite element method, and the results are compared with outcomes from limit equilibrium method. First model is with 'middle' mesh density and second is with 'fine' mesh density. Also, it was analyzed model with and without pore pressure. Namely, it was assumed process of stabilization of slope slide with dewatering method. Comparison of obtained results will give us answer which method is most appropriate for process of making decisions as well as method for stabilization of slope in pit mines.