ABSTRACT
The empirical pillar design described by various researchers is mainly based on the strength of pillar and the critical average stress of the intact rock is seen to be unrealistic. The other factors such as the behaviour of the broken rock, and the interaction between the pillar and supported rock have also the dominating influence on the load-carrying capacity of the pillar. The paper describes a new approach for the design of the stope dimensions in different rock formation (a modified Methew’s approach 1981). The factors considered in the stope design principle are: The rock stress factor, rock defect and orientation factor, shape factor and stability number. The design principle suggested for Chingola ‘B’ Copper Mine has proved to be promising for different rock formation.
