The 3D Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) is a proven approach for increased rigor in aligning the modeling of open pit sidewall stability with reality but is subject to variation in the calculated factor of safety (FOS). Variations can be introduced related to the column resolution, the constitutive model parameters, and the critical slip surface searching methodology as well as additional aspects. This paper presents the analysis of column resolution influence and the related impact on the factor of safety (FOS) calculated on open pit sidewalls. This study provides insights on the critical surface shape, and evaluates how complex site conditions may also require column resolution refinement, to obtain a reasonable calculation time and accurate factor of safety. Methodologies are suggested for determining the optimum column resolution in practice.
Figure 3. Open Pit model visualization
This article is republished with permission of Geo Niagara 2021, https://www.geoniagara2021.ca/
Citation: Trevizolli, M., Fredlund, M.D., Lu, H.H., Column Resolution Impacts on 3D Open Pit Stability, GeoNiagara 2021, September 2021, https://www.geoniagara2021.ca/