Mining

Mines encompass extensive areas, characterized by a range of dynamic activities, such as blasting, drilling, excavations, and ore transportation, among others. These operations induce vibrations that exert a substantial influence on both the geological composition and the stability of the mine infrastructure, as well as the integrity of surrounding structures.

Within the mine, the paramount goals are efficiency and safety, two interconnected objectives demanding meticulous optimization. On one hand, there is a pressing need to enhance minable areas, constructing steeper slopes to minimize waste production. Simultaneously, prioritizing the safety of personnel and implementing robust risk management protocols is imperative.

Vibration levels are meticulously monitored using triaxial geophones, providing a comprehensive assessment of the ground’s response to mining-related activities. Additionally, air pressure may be measured with an air overpressure microphone.

Adjacent to mines, Tailings Storage Facilities (TSF) serve as repositories for the by-products of mineral extraction, requiring continuous scrutiny to prevent potential disasters. Permanent stability assessments are integral to ensuring the soundness of these facilities and averting any adverse consequences associated with their structural integrity.

The main applications in this field:

Blasting Monitoring

Blasting monitoring involves overseeing vibrations and air pressure resulting from explosions. Typically conducted within mines, where blasting activities are frequent, it also finds application in tunnels and demolition sites.

The primary objective of blasting monitoring is to ensure that explosions do not cause structural issues or high levels of vibration/air pressure in the surroundings. Key applications include:

o Ensuring stability in mine slopes

o Compliance with local/international regulations

o Monitoring predetermined thresholds at sensitive points within the mine

o Controlling the relationship between blast source distance and explosive quantity

o Safeguarding any structure near a blasting/demolition site

Critical locations in the mine are equipped with permanent instruments, while portable devices are temporarily deployed to assess localized issues. Monitoring instruments typically feature four channels: three for vibration and one for air pressure. Shortly after each blasting event, automated notifications are sent to blasting operators, providing information on detected values and compliance with reference standards. This real-time communication helps operators stay informed about the impact of the blasts.

Tailing Storage Facilities (TSF)

Tailings storage facilities and their associated dams require permanent monitoring. Typical monitoring strategies usually employ accelerometers, to prevent potential collapses that could pose risks to the entire mine and surrounding communities.