4
The DFN simulation closely matched the observed
structural behavior frequently observed on site as demon-
strated in Figure 7.
Simple Finite Element Model
A separate, finite element model was generated to simu-
late the tensile zone within the stope shoulders. The
RocScience ® software, Phase2, was utilized to generate the
model and is presented in Figure 8.
The model view shows the strength factor, which is the
ratio of rock strength to induced stress. If predicted val-
ues are less than 1, the rock may yield, and if less than 0,
the rock is in tension. Geometries were traced around the
zones within the stope shoulders which are near or within
tension.
Merging of 2 Model Types
The results of the DFN and finite element model were then
merged to determine the zones within the stope shoulders
which are both in tension and are within fracture network
extents. Figure 9 presents the geometries of the tensile
zones from Figure 8 overlaid on the DFN simulation from
Figure 6.
Following the merging of the two models, a raveling
sequence can be simulated. As part of the sequence, blocks
are identified which would release as other blocks ravel. A
Figure 6. DFN simulation
Figure 7. Cavity monitoring survey (pre-failure)
Figure 8. Simple finite element model
The DFN simulation closely matched the observed
structural behavior frequently observed on site as demon-
strated in Figure 7.
Simple Finite Element Model
A separate, finite element model was generated to simu-
late the tensile zone within the stope shoulders. The
RocScience ® software, Phase2, was utilized to generate the
model and is presented in Figure 8.
The model view shows the strength factor, which is the
ratio of rock strength to induced stress. If predicted val-
ues are less than 1, the rock may yield, and if less than 0,
the rock is in tension. Geometries were traced around the
zones within the stope shoulders which are near or within
tension.
Merging of 2 Model Types
The results of the DFN and finite element model were then
merged to determine the zones within the stope shoulders
which are both in tension and are within fracture network
extents. Figure 9 presents the geometries of the tensile
zones from Figure 8 overlaid on the DFN simulation from
Figure 6.
Following the merging of the two models, a raveling
sequence can be simulated. As part of the sequence, blocks
are identified which would release as other blocks ravel. A
Figure 6. DFN simulation
Figure 7. Cavity monitoring survey (pre-failure)
Figure 8. Simple finite element model