Prediction of the caved rock zones’ scope induced by caving mining method

Critical medium column theory has typically been used to predict the scope of caved rock zone (CRZ) caused by caving mining method. It is essential to understand the distribution laws of lateral pressure induced by caving mining method with different dipping angles. In this study, a self-designed scaled physical model was used to investigate the distribution laws with angles ranging from 80° to 90°, and ore drawing was employed in experiments to simulate caving mining method. The experimental results indicated that the distribution laws were divided into the reductive region and the extensive region during ore drawing. The reductive region was close to the drawing hole, and its scope was smaller than the other part. Moreover, decreasing the dipping angle was an effective way of controlling the maximum reduction rates and the scope of reductive region. By varying laws of lateral pressure, the predictive model of CRZs’ scope was established. Additionally, the rock mass located outside the predictive CRZs’ scope did not rupture based on the monitoring of Digital Optical Televiewing (OPTV), which was verified by the field test in Dabeishan Iron Mine, China. The results of the field test demonstrated that the prediction method used in this study was valid and could be used in practice.