UBC mining method selection

L. Miller-Tait, R.Pakalnis & R. Poulin

UBC, Canada
The UBC approach is simply a modified version of the Nicholas approach. This
numbering system follows a very similar pattern to the Nicholas method. A value, -10,
was introduced to strongly discount a method without totally eliminating it as with the
-49 value. Moreover, the rock mechanics ratings were adjusted to reflect improvements
with ground support and monitoring techniques
Nicholas approach modifications
The UBC version modifies all rankings and each characteristic except grade distribution
and plunge. The Nicholas approach was modified in an attempt to put more emphasis
on stope mining rather than mass mining techniques such as caving.
Improved rock support techniques monitoring, and the use of remote operated
equipment now make it possible to mine by open stoping techniques rather than
caving in poor ground conditions.
Many mines, particularly vein gold deposits, are usually less than 10 meters thick.
Therefore this selection technique adds a category, very narrow, to provide a more
specific description for narrow vein mining. Very narrow is classified as 0-3 meters. The
reason for this thickness is to distinguish a range where open stoping, due to control
problems, becomes impartial. When thicknesses become less than three meters,
stoping is generally conducted with stoppers or jacklegs.

-The UBC mining method selection classifies rock mechanics into two parameters:
namely rock mass rating (RMR) and rock substance strength (RSS). The rock mass
rating consists of the Bieniawskys rock mass rating (CSIR 1973)

The modified version of rock substance strength is very similar to the Nicholas
approach. However, as many Canadian mines have horizontal pressures in excess to
twice the overburden pressure. Maximum in situ stress is used instead of overburden
pressure.
The very weak category represents a range where, despite the rock mass rating, it
would be unsafe for man entry without ground support.
The weak category represents a range where it may be dangerous for man entry
without ground support.
Conclusion
The UBS mining method selection process is simply a modification of the Nicholas
approach. The modifications emphasize stoping methods and lower production

operations. These changes were emporocally derived to reflect current Canadian

mining oparations.