Field Records

  

Geotechnical Assessments are only as good as the data collected.  In order to ascertain the relevant parameters required by the computer modelling software, QuarryDesign have invested in portable test equipment to provide more accurate estimates  of insitu strengths, density and friction angles.

 

  

Whilst these portable testing techniques are not as  accurate as taking bulk samples for laboratory testing, they  are considerably less expensive and whereas laboratory testing is usually only performed on a limited number of samples, by using portable test equipment, we are able to cover more of the quarry's face or tip's surface. The parameters obtained are still 'estimates' but they are more accurate than using 'standard' material properties from   published sources.
                        

  

Detailed field mapping includes the recording of geological features (such as potentially weak intra-formational layers that a failure could be located within) and discontinuity data to assess the kinematical potential for failure to occur (our recent investment in a LIDAR scanner enables these data to be safely recorded).  Field estimates of Joint Compressive Strength, (JCS) Joint Roughness Coefficient (JRC) and Geological Strength Index (GSI) are also taken.

 

 

 

In addition to the above 'technical' data collection we also make a visual inspection and produce a photographic and writen record of the condition of all structures present on Site.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Computer Modelling

 

In  order to produce appropriate Factors of Safety and to assess the  probability of failure, QuarryDesign has invested in a suite of  geotechnical software from RocScience and GeoSlope International.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kinematical Analysis (above)

 

 

 

 

Summary Planar Failure Analysis (left)

 

 

 

 

Detailed Planar Failure Analysis (below)

 

 

 

 

 



Rockfall

Analysis




























Slope Stability
Analysis




















Face Height Analysis