ABSTRACT
Mining operations are increasingly faced with achieving the operational safety ideal of zero harm, while at the same time increasing productivity. Deeper underground hard-rock mines are faced with a challenging environment. High in-situ stresses and associated seismicity with potential rockburst hazards are the major factors contributing to the choice of a ground support regime. Conventional ground support systems, designed primarily for static loads, are not always capable of providing safe working conditions for underground personnel in seismically active mines. Systems specifically developed to resist dynamic loading and allowing for larger deformations are therefore preferred alternatives. High-tensile chain-link mesh has a proven record of successful use in open-cut operations in various rockfall barrier installations, due to its high energy absorption capacity. It has also been used in underground operations in various parts of the world. This paper describes a method of mechanized installation of a chain-link mesh. A purpose-built mechanized roll mesh handler, developed in Australia, is used in several mines for ground support installations. The handler is compatible with all standard multi-boom underground drill rigs, and is operated utilizing the hydraulic circuit normally used for the feed arrangement. Although the energy-absorbing mesh combined with yielding rock bolts is a ground support system of choice for rockburst-prone conditions, the operational advantages, imply that this product can also be competitively used in less demanding ground conditions, where customarily electro-welded mesh or shotcrete are used as a primary surface support.
