Development of an Algorithm for the Prediction of Slope Failure in Surface Mines

Abstract

Slope failures in surface mines are a severe threat and can result in deaths and significant damage to infrastructure and machinery. Though complicated, most of these failures can be predicted. Because mine slope collapses may result in loss of life and property, mining companies throughout the globe have long focused on anticipating slope failures. Consequently, several investigations and research have been conducted to better comprehend these events and their evolution. An automated algorithm based on the monitored displacement data to detect the start of slope acceleration (onset-of-acceleration) and further predict slope failure was developed. A five-stage approval approach is used for a given dataset. When the analysis provides a final positive output, the slope is in acceleration. The time of onset of acceleration is further used to find the time of failure of slopes, which is the sixth stage of the model. An early warning system that predicts slope failures uses this output to prevent potentially catastrophic slope events improving the overall mining performance and safety standards. © The Institution of Engineers (India) 2023.