Simulation of fracture propagation depth and failure in long hole open stoping

There are numerous factors which affect open stope stability and often result in falls of ground. These falls of ground can be attributed to a number of factors such as beam failure due to a larger than normal roof area (hydraulic radius too large), adverse ground conditions, seismicity, the stress-strain environment, absence of support and poor drill and blast practices. The effect of fracture depth in open stope failure is sometimes underestimated and relatively unknown. Actual data collected from open stopes and the analysis thereof is used for back analysis on the failure depth. The benefits of this analysis will result in improved understanding of fracture propagation in Long Hole Open Stoping at depths.