Home / Modelling & planning
Numerical modelling that feeds the mine plan
We use numerical and analytical tools where they add insight, and translate the results into sequencing, layouts and support that planners can use.
Analysis methods
The right model depends on the question. We select the simplest method that captures the governing mechanism, then test sensitivity before a recommendation reaches your plan.
- Limit-equilibrium methods, deterministic and probabilistic
- Finite element and finite difference analysis
- Stress and deformation assessment
- Excavation sequencing and backfill response
- Rock mass behaviour and structural controls
- Sensitivity and scenario analysis
Software toolkit
Industry-standard packages for rock engineering, geological modelling, mine design and seismic analysis.
| Software | Typical applications | Why we use it |
|---|---|---|
| RS2 (Rocscience) | 2D slope stability, stress redistribution, tunnel sections | Fast finite-element workflows for detailed sections |
| RS3 (Rocscience) | 3D stress analysis, complex excavations | 3D FEM with contact interfaces and advanced constitutive models |
| Slide2 / Slide3 (Rocscience) | 2D and 3D limit-equilibrium slope stability | Probabilistic, pseudo-static and irregular-geometry analysis |
| RocPlane / Swedge (Rocscience) | Planar and wedge failure on slopes | Rapid kinematic block failure assessment |
| UnWedge (Rocscience) | Underground wedge and pillar stability | 3D wedge generation and support evaluation |
| Dips / RocData (Rocscience) | Discontinuity analysis, stereonets, rock mass strength | Structural statistics and kinematic screening |
| Examine2D / 3D | Elastic stress analysis around excavations | Quick screening of layouts and pillars |
| Vulcan, Leapfrog, PointStudio | Geological, structural and rock mass modelling; scan data | Links the geotechnical model to the geology and as-builts |
| Deswik, Surpac | Mine design and planning | Geotechnical constraints built directly into designs |
| IMS Trace, Ticker 3D, Vantage | Seismic data and stress analysis | Seismic risk assessment in high-stress environments |
Mine planning support
Geotechnical engineering is most valuable when it sits inside the planning cycle rather than reviewing plans after the fact.
- Geotechnical inputs to life-of-mine planning
- Extraction sequencing and rehabilitation scheduling
- Mining method optimisation
- Cut-and-fill optimisation
- Pillar extraction and recovery
- Capital project support and PFS studies
