Case Study

Beltana Mine Rockfall Control

Located in NSW’s Hunter Valley near Singleton, Xstrata’s Beltana mine is one of the most productive longwall coal mines in Australia. As a punch longwall mine, Beltana has required the ongoing development of underground access along the length of the 60m high open cut highwall. Each new portal development has require installation of a rockfall control system to protect plant and personnel working at the base of the wall. Stornoway has provided rockfall control services to the mine on an ongoing basis for more than five years.

Challenge

Xstrata had commenced the development of a new punch longwall coal mining operaton at it’s Beltana Mine near Singleton NSW. The operation involved underground access from the base of 60m highwall. Rockfall from the face was a major safety concern requiring the design and installation of rockfall control system capable of protecting mine personnel and equipment from substantial block failure, as well as small stones which, from such a height, can pose a significant risk. On recommendation from Stornoway was – Maccaferri – one of two companies requested to tender the works, Stornoway ultimately being successful.

Solution

In bidding for the work, Stornoway combined it’s demonstrated rockfall project capability with the technical strength of Maccaferri, the world’s leading supplier of rockfall control products, and DSI, world leader in rockbolting and anchor products. The combined experience of the three companies was unsurpassed in Australia.

Combined with that capability was a safety management system that involved detailed risk assessment and control processes. In conjunction with mine personnel, all aspects of the work were analysed prior to commencement, with detailed risk control plans developed and implemented.

The solution was a system combining flexible double twisted rockfall mesh draped over the face with rock bolts drilled into the face to minimise the risk of block failure.

Results

Stornoway has been a preferred supplier of rockfall control services to Beltana mine for more than five years, completing numerous stages in the punch longwall development. Throughout that time there has not been a single injury arising from the work or subsequent rockfalls to either Stornoway or mine personnel.