SLOPE DESIGN OF AN OPEN-PIT COPPER MINE

The stability of a copper open pit slope was investigated by the limit equilibrium method. Further analysis was done by numerical modelling technique. The results from both methods were found to be in agreement . In the course of the study, geotechnical mapping was undertaken to d etermine the critical orientation of geological discontinuities. Geome chanical properties were determined in the laboratory. Sensitivity ana lysis was conducted to determine the parameter which will influence th e slope performance the most. It was also used in determining the most suitable remedial measure for the critical slope. Presplit blasting w as experimented successfully for creating a stable final pit slope. Th e analysis by the limit equilibrium method and numerical modelling of the open pit slopes indicate that the 148 m deep open pit is stable wi th a 60-degrees overall slope angle. Slope monitoring did not reveal a ny movement in and around the pit.