ROCK MASS CHARACTERISATION QUESTION

Using the Q-System of Barton, the accompanying field data (below), and the reference tables and graphs
below:
FIELD DATA
Parameter Description
Length of drilled core: 280m
Rock quality
Length of core >100mm: 260
Joint set detail Two joint sets
Joint surface description Slickensided and discontinuous
Tightly healed, hard, non-softening impermeable
Joint filling or alteration rock mineral filling
Joint separation 0mm
Ground water Dry excavation
Head of water <10m
Competent rock mass
Stress reduction factor UCS = 225MPa
Depth = 1190m, Density = 2755kg/m3

1. Work out the Q value of the rock mass described, given that
Q = RQD x Jr x Jw x Jw/(Jn x Ja x Ja x SRF).
Show your parameter selections next to the descriptions above and the calculation below.
(10 marks)
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2. What is the equivalent Bieniawski rock mass rating (RMR) for the Q-Value just worked
out, given that RMR = 9 x lnQ + 44?
(3 marks)

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 3. Work out the factor of safety (FOS) for a tunnel 10 metres wide using the graph below.
(4 marks)

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4. Plot the RMR on the graph of stand up times below. What is stand-up time for a tunnel
10 metres wide?

Stand up time for a 10m-span tunnel = …………………………………………..…………………………………… (6 marks)

5. What is the effect of changing the tunnel to width to 5m on the FOS, and the stand-up
time?
(4 marks)
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 6. If the tunnel is for a vertical and square shaft 10 metres wide, what is the support work
necessary to ensure stability? Plot your work on the diagram graph below.

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(4 marks)