Validation of Friction-Anchored Rock Bolt Supports for Underground Excavations in Backfill

The rational mine support system designs for underground excavations in backfill are discussed. The current mine support technology applied in excavations in backfill in Artemievsk and Orlovsky mines is examined. The strength and deformation characteristics of backfill samples are tested on a laboratory scale. The FEM-based stress–strain analysis of ore body and backfill is described with the assessment of their stability. The probable failure zones in backfill and ore body during to-downward slice mining are determined. The rational support design is validated for backfill having stability category I, II and III. The pilot test data on the load-bearing capacity of friction-anchored rock bolts in backfill are assessed. The economic efficiency of the mixed-type support composed of steel frame and friction-anchored rock bolts in backfill is demonstrated.