Finite Element Method Applied in Mine Pressure Computation within the Context of Rock Massif – Support System Interaction

The analysis of current underground mine workings, including both operational sites and those halted, directly addresses the issue of stability and safety. This study aims to analyze the stability of underground workings situated in strongly metamorphosed andesite, determining mine pressure with a focus on rock-support system interaction through numerical methods that factor in inhomogeneous stresses, anisotropy of rocks, and time. The methodology utilized a numerical-based finite element method to obtain variations in stress, radial displacements, and mine pressure profiles of the analyzed workings. To assess stability, a mathematical model was developed based on conformity principles and safety levels, addressing the main factors influencing underground workings' stability. Findings indicate that the analyzed underground workings exhibit a low stability level, corroborated by observational data and numerical results. This study establishes a categorical correspondence between computed safety levels and stability classes of the mine workings. The originality lies in understanding stress-strain states in the context of rock-support interactions specific to horizontal galleries in strongly metamorphosed andesite. Practical implications of this research enhance the stability of mine workings, intending to significantly improve safety levels throughout their life cycle.