Numerical modelling is a powerful tool to conceptualise a design, quantify risk and verify design parameters. Before costly and often risky experimental mining is done, the alternatives can be compared through numerical simulations. Lately, numerical modelling has also become a focus point of the DMR while conducting mine audits.
AEON has the expertise to perform stability analysis, probability of failure and factor of safety calculations, simulation of stress and strains around underground and open cast excavations at any point over the life of a mine.
Geological structures, varying rock properties, unique stress states, rockmass fracturing, rock strengths, excavation geometries, constitutive behaviour, backfill and support elements can be incorporated.
Our customised tools and procedures to expedite model building have enabled us to provide a cost-efficient service for design problems on any scale.
Our numerical modelling packages and methods are based on the
- finite element
- boundary element (displacement discontinuity/fictitious force)
- discrete element
- limit equilibrium
- Monte-Carlo simulations; and
- Point Estimate methods and/or codes.
Routine modelling (on- and off- reef) I Shaft pillar design and anticipated pillar behaviour I
Longwall stability and scattered mining simulations I Rock reinforcement I Mine waste rock dumps and mine tailings stability I Slope stability I Joint behaviour I Water migration I Multi-seam mining I Tunnel stability and squeezing I Business Plan Risk assessment using probabilistic methods I Remnant modelling I Geological structure stability I Seismic back analysis and hazard assessment I Quantification of probability of failure through Monte-Carlo analysis, Point Estimate method and the Area of overlap method I Support design incorporating probabilistic key block methods.