Slope Stability in Open Pit Mines in Clayey Rock Mass

Justification of slope parameters for benches and pit walls in clayey rock mass bases on studies into geological structure and physical and mechanical properties of rocks of various lithological varieties. The upper layers of pit walls occur in weak clayey overburden, in the crust of weathering and in transition zone with conglomerates, up to 150 m in total thickness. In this case, it is required to calculate accurately angles of clayey slopes, to undertake cutback at recommended angles and to eliminate heavy flow of melt water and rain water from ground surface to the slopes. Mining within the design pit wall limits should be accompanied by continuous instrumental monitoring of pit wall slopes.