Numerical Evaluation of Coal Bench Stability at Different Bench Heights Using FLAC3D: A Case Study of JK-5 opencast Mine, Telangana, India

  1)                      Opencast mining is a cost-effective method that allows a high grade of mechanization and large production volumes. Mining depths in open pits have increased steadily during the last decade, which has increased the risk of large-scale stability problems. It is necessary to assess the different types of slope failure and take suitable, cost-effective measures to prevent, eliminate, and minimize risk. 2)                      The parametric study, which was carried out by varying the bench height, showed that with an increase in bench height, the factor of safety decreases. Moreover, the bench parameters are important factors affecting slope stability. With the increase in both parameters, the stability decreases. Conduct of slope stability assessment in Indian mines is mostly based on empirical and observational approaches; hence, the effort is made by statutory bodies to have more application of analytical, numerical modelling in this field to make slope assessment and design scientific. This will ensure that suitable corrective actions can be taken on time to minimize slope failures and the associated risks.

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