A new method of mine drainage prediction using unit static resource method

Abstract

The paper considers mine drainage prediction in a partially closed mine with a fractured karst aquifer which is highly permeable and quite thick. The aquifer is bordered along the edge of the mine by impermeable boundaries and zones, of low transmissibility. Inside the mine there are significant quantities of static resource ground water. However, the extent of ground water outside the mine is relatively less. In such a mine, a series of characteristics can be observed to accompany the pumpage when the pumped discharge exceeds the ground water recharge.

It is rather difficult to predict the drainage of such a mine, owing to the unsteady drawdown of the ground water level, and the complicated boundary conditions. In addition there is difficulty in measuring the hydrogeological parameters such as the permeability coefficient of the aquifer, etc.

Quoting the concept of “unit static resource” that has been well defined previously, this paper offers a new type of “unit static resource method”. It was developed in 1972 and has been effectively applied to drainage prediction problems at several mines in the northern part of China.

The method is applicable not only to partially closed mines but also to completely closed ones, and furthermore, includes the earlier “unit static resource method”. It can be used to appreciate water supply besides predicting mine drainage.