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Mining Publication: Pillar and Roof Span Design in Stone Mines
Keywords: Mining workforce Pillar design Stone mining Underground mining
Original creation date: January 2010
Authors: GS Esterhuizen, DR Dolinar, JL Ellenberger
Peer Reviewed Journal Article - January 2010
Download PDF Document (2.24 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20037776
Extracting the Science: A Century of Mining Research. Brune JF, ed., Littleton, CO: Society of Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, 2010 Jan; :209-224
Underground stone mines in the United States use the room and pillar method of mining in relatively flat laying deposits. Roof and rib falls account for 15% of all lost time incidents. This paper presents the result of a study to improve pillar and roof span design methods so that unexpected ground instabilities will be reduced. A pillar design equation and related design guidelines are presented based on the observation of pillar performance at 34 different underground operations. A roof span design procedure is also proposed that systematically addresses the main issues related to roof instability. The guidelines are based on the observation of actual pillar and roof span performance in stone mines in the Eastern and Midwestern United States and therefore only apply to stone mine design within these regions.
Image of publication Pillar and Roof Span Design in Stone MinesPeer Reviewed Journal Article - January 2010
Download PDF Document (2.24 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20037776
Extracting the Science: A Century of Mining Research. Brune JF, ed., Littleton, CO: Society of Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, 2010 Jan; :209-224
See Also
A Computer Software Program that Estimates Air Quantity Requirements in Large Opening Stone Mines
The Effects of Water Emulsified Fuel on Diesel Particulate Matter Concentrations in Underground Mines
Pillar Design Issues for Underground Stone Mines
Pillar Strength and Design Methodology for Stone Mines
Pillar Strength in Underground Stone Mines in the United States
Possible Impact of New Safety Technology Developments on the Future of the United States Mining Industry
Preventing Injuries Caused by Unrecognized Stone Mine Roof Beam Failures With a Pro-Active Roof Control Plan
Roof Span Design for Underground Stone Mines
Technique to Assess Hazards in Underground Stone Mines: the Roof Fall Risk Index (RFRI)
Underground Mine Communications
Page last reviewed: September 21, 2012
Page last updated: September 21, 2012
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mining Program
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