Numerical Modelling for Designing Tunnel Support in Heavily Jointed Rock

This paper presents the engineering geological properties and support design of a tunnel which is heavily jointed at the Kalatongke Cu-Ni Mine. Then according to geological properties and mechanical properties of the rock, the two-dimension finite element program called Phase², was applying to analysis the stability of the tunnel. Three models of simulations are carried out in this paper for tunnel support in heavily jointed rock to investigate the effect of (1) unsupported, (2) concrete, and (3) a combination of concrete and rock bolts. The surrounding stresses distribution, displacement and yielded elements around the tunnel were simulated and analyzed. In these analyses, since after applying a combination of concrete and rock bolts for the support system, tunnel deformation and the yielded elements around the tunnel decreased significantly. So the recommended support systems have been found to be successful to prevent further deformations around the tunnel openings.