Yes, there are several alternatives to roof bolting for ground support in underground mining, each suited to different conditions and requirements:
Wood Support
Wood support systems have been used in underground mining for centuries. Timber can be cut and installed in various ways, depending on the situation. Wood is flexible enough to yield as the ground moves but is not as strong as other materials.
However, wood is highly combustible, which is not ideal for underground mining.
Steel Support
Steel support systems are varied. Generally, they are extremely strong and dependable. However, steel support systems can get pretty expensive.
The cheapest and simplest steel support system is an ordinary H section steel girder cut to the appropriate size and wedged into the gap.
Other types of steel supports involve hydraulics and work as a jack to prop the roof up. While these are strong, they are prone to giving way under enough pressure.
Cementitious Support
Cementitious support structures are highly effective because they can be as strong as the rock itself. However, it can be difficult to transport large and heavy concrete pillars and slabs underground(tufbag, 2022).
Ground conditions vary, and so must our ground support strategies! While roof bolting is essential, what are the key alternatives or supplementary methods used to secure underground mines? Share your insights on adapting ground support to different geological challenges!
References:
tufbag. (2022, June 30). Which Underground Mining Support Products Are The Best? Tufbag. https://www.tufbag.com/which-underground-mining-support-products-are-the-best/
