Service line

Geotechnical Consulting

More Than Rocks & Bolts

Our geotechnical engineers utilise high specification computational processing and traditional engineering methods to deliver practical geotechnical solutions across the lifespan of open cut and underground mines and development projects.

01

Geotechnical Analysis & Design

Our team has experience in a range of challenging operating environments — from arid deserts to high rainfall, high seismic regions. We collaborate closely with our clients to develop robust geotechnical models, by combining the best traditional approaches with the latest software innovations.

Mine slope stability, including pit slopes, internal and external spoil dumps, heap leach pads
Mining methodology considerations (dragline, truck and shovel, terrace mining, softwalling, drill and blast)
Conceptual to feasibility level mining studies (desktop/conceptual, PFS, BFS, DFS)
Stereographic and kinematic analysis — failure mode and mechanism analyses, structural geological assessment
2D and 3D modelling for open cut and civil slopes
Remote pit wall mapping
Design of slope stabilisation methods
Depressurisation studies
PRCP geotechnical inputs — residual void stability and bunding requirements
Ground support design for coal and metalliferous projects (rock/cable bolt specifications, passive and active ground support, shotcrete/fibrecrete liners)
2D and 3D modelling for underground excavations — roadways, production areas, crusher chambers and infrastructure
Ventilation shaft stability assessments for various excavation methods (blindboring and raiseboring)
Subsidence analysis for longwall and caving operations

02

Geotechnical Site Investigation

We work closely with our clients to develop field programs that maximise the value of the data collected.

2D and 3D slope stability analysis
Empirical rock mass classifications — RMR, Q-System, GSI, CMRR
3D non-linear strain softening continuum and discontinuum modelling
Utilisation of advanced constitutive models for rock masses and geological structures
Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) modelling and probabilistic simulation
Dynamic modelling

03

Geotechnical Modelling

Our numerical modelling incorporates advanced non-linear techniques to provide a reliable decision-making tool to assist geotechnical engineers, mining engineers, geologists, and mine managers with increasing mine performance and productivity.

Rock mass characterisation using GSI, RMR, CMRR, and Q-system
Stress analysis
2D limit equilibrium modelling (LEM) using Rocscience Slide2
2D and 3D finite element modelling (FEM) using Rocscience RS2 and RS3
3D explicit finite difference and finite volume modelling using Itasca FLAC3D, 3DEC, and PFC
Development of 3D mine-scale non-linear, strain-softening continuum and discontinuum models
Explicitly integrating large numbers of geo-structures into models
Advanced constitutive models including strain-softening and dilatant behaviour
Quantified calibration based on seismic data, geotechnical instrumentations, and field observations
Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) modelling and probabilistic simulation
Realistic simulation of local and regional stress field conditions
Dynamic modelling

04

Data Acquisition & Interpretation

Data underpins everything that we do. We acquire, process, interpret, and analyse a broad range of geological, geophysical, hydrogeological, and geomechanical data to derive geotechnical solutions for our clients and projects.

Open cut highwall mapping using 3D point cloud data and photogrammetry
Geotechnical interpretation of wireline geophysical data (ATV, OTV, sonic-derived rock strength)
Underground tell-tale instrument monitoring
Underground geotechnical hazard mapping of mains and development openings
Slim borehole scanner (SBS) data acquisition and geotechnical interpretation

Discuss your requirements

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Whether you are planning a study, preparing for field work or need responsive support on site, we can route your enquiry to the right person quickly.

Get in touch

Geotechnical Consulting

Ty Grantham

Principal Consultant & Associate

Emailt.grantham@blackrockmining.netTelephone+61 437 881 075