Friction: Edition 16 | April 2024
FROM THE EDITOR
As geotechnical engineers, structural geology is at the core of everything we do. This month, I will discuss the importance of structural geology and why it’s imperative that we understand the geology and its structure first.
My article considers that while numerical modelling is vital, there is tremendous power in setting foot on site because if you don’t understand the rockmass before running our simulations, your outputs will be misleading or simply wrong. The PNG case I touch on is an example of how impactful the combination of numerical modelling and physical assessment is.
While data and modelling builds part of the picture, adding a physical site inspection layers another perspective, enhancing an engineer’s analysis, improving recommendations and ultimately boosting mine site safety.
We also hear from Michael Munro, GMEK’s Technical Director. Mike joins us as our feature Q&A this month and shares a detailed insight into his background as a geologist, having worked across some of the most advanced sites in Australia and abroad.
With Q1 done and dusted, be sure to keep an eye on the events happening near you with our events calendar. And don’t forget our Associations Directory if you are interested in joining a geotechnical association in your area.
Regards,
Tim Cartledge
Friction is made possible thanks to our contributors who offer up their valuable time and knowledge. If you know a geotechnical engineer who’d enjoy Friction, please forward this email to them or share any of our news and features on LinkedIn. You can also direct them to our sign-up link here.
First things first, just look at the rocks
Up to 90% of the work geotechnical engineer’s do is understanding the geology and geological structure of a mine site. And when it comes to advising how to manage geotechnical risk, Cartledge Mining and Geotechnics Principal Consultant and Managing Director Tim Cartledge explores in his article why we must use every tool we have to help, including our powers of observation.
Q&A with Michael Munro
Like a geologist inspecting all rock discontinuity, let's unearth the hidden layers of Michael Munro, Technical Director at GMEK, by asking the important questions in our monthly Q&A feature.
NEWS, PUBLICATIONS AND UPDATES
Importance of structural geology in slope stability - International Geotechnical Center
In urban development, the integration of both structural geology and geotechnical engineering is of the utmost importance to ensure stability, safety and sustainability. As geotechnical engineers, it is crucial to understand the best practices, methods and systems used by structural geologists in the modern development landscape.
A recent blog by International Geotechnical Center uncovers the fundamentals of structural geology and explores the influence it has on a project as well as the different methods of structural analysis used by geo-professionals.
The mining industry's invisible elephant
As geotechnical engineers, the smooth operation of a mine site rests on our shoulders. So, it is important to take a step back and ask yourself the question: am I missing something?
Structural geologist Jun Cowan puts forward the idea that as an industry, we have neglected the importance of deposit-scale structural geology as a consequence of the dominance of geochemistry, which has led to confusion and inefficiencies in the industry. Check out his insights below.
Numerical analysis of underground tunnel deformation: A case study of Midroc Lega-Dembi gold mine
Underground mine sites often possess characteristics that make them increasingly complex to navigate compared to open pit sites – especially when the geological conditions are non-favourable.
The persistent deformation of tunnels and environmental factors that influence structural stability continue to pose a threat to the safety of workers in mining operations.
A study by Scientific Reports investigates the collapse of tunnels at the Lega-Dembi gold mine in Southern Ethiopia, evaluates the effect of geotechnical parameters on tunnel deformation and suggests appropriate support systems for managing underground instability and enhancing safety measures in weak geological formations.
Drone photogrammetry: A structural data gathering tool for open pit mining geotechnics - Australian Centre for Geomechanics
Drones, data and design – how the industry is benefiting from the integration of unmanned aerial surveying devices in geotechnical analysis.
Published as a part of the SSIM 2021 Mining Conference in Perth for the Australian Centre of Geomechanics, this abstract discusses how drone flights were used to develop a photogrammetry-based model of an operating limestone pit, and how they assisted in addressing data inadequacy and uncertainty.
It also explores how the resulting structural model helped establish opportunities for slope steepening and allowed a strategic slope management program to be developed and implemented.
Top 20 women in ground engineering: Industry influencers
Shining a spotlight on female trailblazers, thought leaders and innovators in the geotechnical engineering industry.
Ground Engineering recently listed 20 of the most influential and inspirational women working in geotechnical engineering. Those listed have varied professional backgrounds and are at different stages of their careers, but what connects them is their passion and drive as geotechnical professionals.
Get a glimpse into the achievements of these groundbreaking women below.
HAVE SOMETHING TO SHARE?
Friction is about connecting our industry together. If you have an article, paper or insight to share we'd love to hear from you. Find out how you can contribute to Friction here.
