Services
Induced Seismicity
Our unique approach utilises physics based calculations of energy release calibrated to the mine’s seismic
observations. This physics based approach captures the mechanism of deformations and seismicity,
allowing you ti clearly communicate current and future seismic hazard to engineers, managers and crews.
About
How we work
At Beck Engineering we know that to safely mine in a seismic environment requires clear understanding of the current and future seismic hazard.
Mining induced seismicity is one of the major hazards associated with underground mining.
The re-distribution of stress around an excavation causes damage to the rock mass and on discontinuities.
Conventionally, stress is used as a predictor for seismicity; however, this is a measure of stored energy, rather than the resulting energy release.
To capture the correct stress re-distribution mechanism and resulting plastic deformation, advanced modelling techniques are required.
Beck Engineering has spent many years refining methods for quantifying and forecasting seismic hazard. This area remains one of our primary fields of research and continues to be a major focus.
We apply our proven methods and continue to undertake research at some of the most challenging seismically active mining operations globally. Speak to one of our engineers on incorporating our methods of seismic hazard analysis and seismic forecasting at your mine site.
To properly simulate ground support response, the ground deformation in the surrounding rock mass must correctly represent the mechanisms of deformation.
Our approach
- Beck Engineering assesses seismicity as a system response resulting from a combination of:
- Geology
- Structure
- Void
- Deformation
- Beck Engineering’s own rock mechanics LRx models quantify the peak instantaneous energy release rate, which is shown to be a reliable predictor for seismicity.
- Forecasting utilises all available information to generate a complete 3D interpretation of the mining environment and detailed extraction of material.
- Our simulations use non-linear, strain-softening, dilatant material models for each geotechnical domain, allowing the system to determine where the seismic hazard exists.
Seismic analysis should focus on statistically determined volumes of increased seismicity, rather than discrete, large magnitude seismic events. These volumes correlate to regions of the rock mass undergoing plastic deformation and releasing energy.
Case study 2
Forecasts of Seismic potential results can be combined with the deformation potential and the geological and structural models to assist in understanding the future mechanism for damage and indicate regions with a higher potential for problematic working conditions.
Case study 1
During the calibration process, seismic observations are statistically defined. These statistical volumes are then used to calibrate the numerical results for each material domain. The outcome is a statistically valid forecast for seismic hazard. This methodology has been used in seismically active mines globally, assisting in the redesign of a mining plans to lower the future seismic potential.
What you get
- A greater appreciation for the underlying seismic mechanisms.
- A powerful tool for visualising and communicating the current and future seismic hazard.
- A virtual laboratory to remove flawed design attributes mitigating seismic hazards.
- Quick turnaround time between iterations.
- Full three-dimensional results database available for site engineers to use for ongoing confirmation, analysis, and refinement.
- Full transparency: we will teach you how to get the most out of your seismic observations and simulation results.
- A step-by-step approach for ways to improve future forecasts.