Geotechnical design plays a key role in mine design. A proper
geotechnical design provides a safe working environment and
facilitates efficient mining operation. There are mainly three
design approaches: (i) judgmental, based on observational and
experiential facts, (ii) empirical, based on empirical design
formulae; and (iii) analytical, incorporating numerical analysis.
Most design applications are based on the design methods one
and two as mentioned earlier. However, complexities arise in
deep underground mining operations and deep open pit mines.
These complexities and difficult geological environment
introduce more uncertainties and simple empirical formulae
would not be adequate as a design tool. These situations require
numerical modelling and analysis of the design problems
including interpretation of the results obtained from the analysis. There are several tools available for performing the numerical
modelling and analysis. A brief review of the available tools is
provided. The authors selected ANSYS (a general purpose finite
element analysis tool) for use in mining geomechanics and
geotechnical design. This paper includes several examples
demonstrating the applicability of this software in designing
mining structures. The authors hope that the design examples
will demonstrate the use of the numerical modelling and analysis
applications in excavation design.