Lab Notes
Lab Notes
MNGN321
INTRODUCTION TO ROCK MECHANICS
Prepared by:
Dr. Ugur Ozbay and B. Asbury
2013 Fall
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NOTE
For reasons of practicality, the test procedures you will be using during your
laboratory classes may be different to the standard procedures defined by the
ASTM. The ASTM standard methods for these tests are given separately at
the end of this laboratory class notes for you to note.
You may refer to the formal ASTM test procedures for improving quality of
your laboratory reports.
1. Attendance is compulsory and the Universitys general rules apply to this course. Absence can
only be condoned by the presentation of a medical certificate.
2. Contribution to the conduct of the laboratory exercise.
3. Submission of a technical report on each exercise.
4. Preparation of reports
As mentioned before, the reports can be submitted as groups or individuals. It is strongly advised,
as it is to the advantage of the student, that the reports be completed soon after each laboratory
exercise.
Remember, a report is written to be read, its purpose is to convey information to other persons.
Material presented in a logical, accurate, and tidy form will most effectively achieve this. It is
important that a report maintains the interest of the reader while transmitting all essential
information as concisely as possible. The ideal report combines accuracy, wholeness and
neatness, with brevity.
Each report should be written to suit the particular exercise under study. A comprehensive
introduction and, where appropriate, description of method and apparatus are given in the
laboratory notes. Do not present in the report sections that are simply a re-write from the manual.
At this stage you should be interested in the results and in developing an analytical approach to
their interpretation. Do not include any of the printed sheets from the laboratory manual in the
main text of your report, unless this is a table or a question sheet that you have to fill in.
The sections dealing with the introduction, description of apparatus and procedure should be
concise, with reference given to the laboratory manual where appropriate. Lengthy description
and expansion of these sections is both unnecessary and time wasting. Concentrate more on your
report writing style, presentation, analysis of results, and discussion.
The report should be typed and its pages should be numbered. Leave a margin on the left side of
each page of approximately 25mm. Writing in the past tense and using the third person generally
works well.
The structure of the report should include
1. Report Title: Use a title page and include on this your name, group and date of
experiment.
2. Contents
3. Summary: A concise review of the objective of the experiment, an expression of the
main results, and the conclusions that can be drawn.
4. Introduction: This should be brief and should include a short statement of the objectives
of the experiment. Basic physical principles should be outlined.
Clearly indicate the important features of the graph, e.g. inflection points, maximums and
minimums. At least one sample calculation should be given for each set of parameters if
these parameters are separately included in the appendix.
8. Analysis of Results: This is the most important section of the report and hence should be
given the most weight during writing. This section allows the author to demonstrate an
understanding of the principles involved. An intelligent analysis of the results with respect
to the topic area is required. Where appropriate, results should be equated with other
published data and comparisons drawn. Comment on the sources of error in the
experiment and their effects on the results. Included in this section should be the answers
to any questions asked.
9. Conclusions: This section should contain a discussion of the results, including a critical
evaluation of the experiment, the equipment used, and the techniques employed.
Reference should be made, where relevant, to the practical applications of the experiment
in the industry and suggestions for possible improvements to the experimental procedure.
10. Bibliography: All publications referred to in the report should be listed with full details
of author, title, publisher and year of publication. Clearly indicate in the text all references
to these authors or reports.
11. Appendices: Include any additional data, sample calculations, diagrams and other
information. If you wish to append the printed laboratory manual, then this is the section
where it should be placed.
Sample Preparation
1. Purpose
The purpose of this laboratory session is to familiarize students with preparing rock specimens
for Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS), Triaxial Compressive Strength (TCS), Brazilian
Tensile Strength (BTS), Point Load Index (PLI), Schmidt Hammer (SH), and Acoustic Velocity
(AV) tests. Specimens will be prepared from blocks of limestone rock. The tests performed in
this laboratory classes are close to but not exactly follow the standards as defined by ASTM.
Interested students are advised to look up the formal standards at the ASTM references in the
library.
Proper preparation of specimens requires considerable care and effort and thus takes up much of
the time allocated for tests. Often the results are widely scattered. This poses the problem as to
how many specimens are required for the test. Usually testing of a minimum 3, preferably 5,
specimens per test type, is recommended from each coring location. For this laboratory exercise,
the number of test specimen to be prepared will depend on the availability of specimen rock
blocks.
2. Test Specimens
Normally, samples are collected from the field in the form of rock cores or large blocks. In the
case of softer rocks such as coal, shale and salt, they are cut from the parent body with
appropriate machines. In the case of harder rocks, the large blocks are excavated by drilling
closely spaced holes touching each other. Rock blocks created by large blasts can also be used as
long as they are not affected to contain fractures. When it is necessary to test the properties of
rock from inaccessible regions, diamond drilling is carried out to obtain cores.
In his laboratory class, students will obtain their samples from the limestone or sandstone rock
blocks brought to the laboratory from a limestone quarry.
3. Preparation of Specimens
The equipment that will be used in the sample preparation tasks is given as follows:
(Do not use these machines until you have received training and the instructions from the lab
supervisor.)
Diamond Drill Coring Machine - to obtain cores of selected size from sample blocks
Diamond Rock Saw Machine - to cut drilled cores into selected lengths
Surface Grinder to obtain the required parallelity between the specimen ends
Balance Scale with 2kg range and 0.1 gram accuracy to weigh specimens
Caliper with 0.01 mm accuracy to measure specimen dimensions.
.
Typical specimen diameters are 54 mm (NX). Length-to-diameter ratios commonly used for
some of the tests are listed below (ASTM standards):
Cores will be obtained from drilling into blocks of rocks in the laboratory. The specimens will
then be prepared by cutting the cores into required lengths by disc saws. Grinding the ends to
ensure parallelism and required flatness will be done on the surface grinder machine.
Coring
1. Use the provided coring bit
2. Place the rock block on the platform of the machine and place the 25 mm plywood
provided between the rock block and grill.
3. Clamp the rock block properly and make sure that it is not moving during coring (check
by hand).
4. Connect fresh water hose to the machine and make sure that drainage hose is clean.
5. Before you start coring make sure that the bit and sample are aligned properly.
6. Turn on the water before start coring (for cooling the bit and flushing the cuttings)
7. At the beginning, drill slowly for collaring (DO NOT GO FAST!)
8. When water stops coming up around the core barrel indicates that the bit is through the
rock block. Start to pull up the core bit very slowly. After the bit is clear from the rock
block turn off the machine and water.
9. Move the rock block over slightly to leave room for coring another sample. Do not take
the cored samples out. Repeat the same procedure from step 1 through step 8.
10. Make sure that you have enough core samples for specimen preparation. Remove the core
bit from the machine and take the samples out from the block.
Cutting
1. Use the rock saw to cut the core samples into required length. Use recommended lengthto-diameter ratios given earlier.
1.05_321sampleprep_UO_F12.doc
Check that the saw is at the up position, and then turn on the machine
5. Pull down the saw blade slowly onto the rock sample. Keep steady pressure.
6. After you finish the cutting turn off the machine and water. Wait till the saw blade comes
to a complete STOP.
7. Remove the sample and repeat the same procedure for the next sample.
When completing cutting, identify and mark the specimens to be used for different tests, which
are Uniaxial Compressive Strength, Brazilian Tensile Strength, Point Load Index, Acoustic
Velocity, and Schmidt Hammer tests. There will be specimens provided for you for the shear
strength tests.
Surface grinding
Surface finish is given on a surface grinder machine (only for UCS, triaxial strength and shear
strength specimens).
1. Place the sample on the surface grinder with the proper clamping (V-block).
2. Grind specimen ends to required flatness as per ASTM-4543. Make sure that the sample
is held securely by the V-Block to ensure the parallelism of the ends and verticality of the
ends with respect to core axis. Do not remove the sample from the V-Block until both
ends are ground. This is to maintain the position of the sample with respect to V-Block.
3. Check the smoothness of the ends with the dial gage. The variation must not exceed 0.02
mm. If this value is exceeded, the surfaces must be reground to meet the specified
tolerance.
4. Repeat the same procedure for each UCS sample.
When finished with the UCS specimens, measure and record dimensions and weights.
Strain gaging
The instruction for this activity will be given at the Strain Gauge test station
1.05_321sampleprep_UO_F12.doc
6. Reference
Standard Practice for Preparing Rock Core Specimens and Determining Dimensional and Shape
Tolerances American Society for Testing and Materials, 1995, Annual book of ASTM Standard,
Section 4, Vol. 04.08, Designation D 4543-85 (Reapproved 1991)
1.05_321sampleprep_UO_F12.doc
Operator: ______________
Rock type: __________________
Date: _________________
Diameter 1: __________________
Diameter 2: ____________
After Testing
Notes:
1.06_321UCS_UO_F12.doc
Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) Test with Elastic Modulus (E) and
Poissons ratio ()
1. Purpose
This test measures the Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) and elastic constants (elastic
modulus (E) and Poissons ratio ()) of intact rock specimens prepared in form cylinders. The
UCS is the most commonly used index property of rocks as well as being one of the main
parameters in defining rockmass strength and rockmass classification systems.
2. Equipment
Equipment to be used for uniaxial compressive test:
Hydraulic Press (220 Kips MTS Rock Testing Machine), two flat faced platens, swivel seat.
Data acquisition system integrated into the MTS control system.
3. Procedures
UCS samples are already prepared during the previous specimen preparation lab. For the UCS
tests, the procedure is as follows:
1. Record all pertinent information and measurements on the test sheet above - a general
rock and project information, date, sample weight and dimensions. You can take pictures
and include them in your report.
2. Place and secure the specimen between the platens of the testing machine. Platens must
be clean and oil free. The spherical seat must be tight yet moving and rotating freely.
Place the sample at the center of the platens assuring that a full contact with both platens
is established.
3. Connect the strain gage cables to the terminals of the strain gage connection
4. Close the shield doors on the test machine to protect the operator from flying pieces of
rock.
5. Turn on the machine, the hydraulic pumps, and the computer control system and raise the
lower platen till the sample is held firmly by both platens with a pre-load of about 300
pounds of force. Run the Test-Ware program and select the appropriate template for the
test (e.g. UCS Soft/Hard).
1.06_321UCS_UO_F12.doc
6. Reset the displacement. Set the loading rate at 10 kips per minute. Open a new data file
with the same name as the Sample ID. Start loading. The machine will collect data and
detect the increase in load. When the sample fails, the machine will when senses a drop
of over 200 lbs in load.
7. Record the peak load and make a sketch of the failure geometry on the test sheet. Remove
the sample and collect all the pieces and put them in a clearly labeled zip lock bag. Clean
the machine. Close and back up the data file.
4. Calculations
The uniaxial compressive strength of the specimen is calculated by dividing the maximum load
carried by the specimen during the test, by the original cross-sectional area:
c =
F
A
where
c UCS of the specimen (MPa)
F - applied force at failure (MN)
A - initial cross-sectional area (m2)
You will be able to visually observe the increasing force on the specimen as function of both
horizontal and vertical strain increase on the specimen on the test systems computer screen.
During testing, the force applied and strains induced on the specimen are recorded into an
electronic data file in Excel format. After the completion of the test, you will be given this data
file. Using the data obtained, you will calculate the values of UCS, E, and , which is the main
objective of performing this particular test.
Add this stress
calculation column
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Stress (MPa)
0.11660
0.16655
0.21684
0.23155
0.23728
0.42380
0.67895
.
.
.
An example data set produced by the testing machine is shown in the figure above. The load is
given in kN, which needs to be converted to MPa units. The specimen deformations are already
given in strain units, thus do not require unit conversions.
1.06_321UCS_UO_F12.doc
5. Reporting of results
The report will include:
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Report stress units in MPa
- Provide the stress-strain curve
- Give the UCS, E and values as obtained from the test.
- Comment on specimens mode of failure, e.g. shear, axial splitting etc
- Attach the test sheets used for the tests as appendix, but not the Excel data file.
- Obtain the strength and elastic constant values from the other lab groups in your
section. Using this data, determine the mean and standard deviation of the UCS, E,
and n, present your results in tabulated form. Comment on the variation in the results.
Discussion
-
Discuss the factors that affect the compressive strength of a rock considering the
manner and environment in which the rock is obtained and tested
Discuss your results by comparing your data against published data, for example,
using the information database given in the Rocdata software.
Did you experience difficulties during testing? Do you have any recommendations on
the testing procedure?
Conclusion
-
1.06_321UCS_UO_F12.doc
6. References
American Society for Testing and Materials, 1995, Annual book of ASTM Standard, Section
4, Vol. 04.08, Designation D 2938-86.
American Society for Testing and Materials, 1995, Annual book of ASTM Standard, Section
4, Vol. 04, 08, Designation D 4543-85.
1.06_321UCS_UO_F12.doc
Operator: ______________
Rock type: __________________
Date: _________________
Diameter 1: __________________
Diameter 2: ____________
Moisture content:
Flatness: Pass
Direction
Yes
No
Travel time
P-wave
Fail
Transducer delay
time
S-wave
1
2
3
Notes:
321AcVelDynConst_UO_F07
Purpose
The purpose of the experiments in this class is to determine the dynamic elastic constants of rock
samples - the dynamic elastic modulus and Poissons ratio.
2.
This experiment is performed in accordance with the procedures recommended by ASTM D2845
on core samples prepared for UCS testing. The core ends are cut parallel to within 0.1 mm/20
mm and flat to a variability of less than 0.025 mm across each surface. NX-sized core (5.4 cm
diameter) is used unless the average grain size of the rock is larger than (1 cm), in which case
larger core is required. Prior to testing the bulk density of the sample is determined.
Piezoelectric transducers capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic electromagnetic waves
are attached to the core ends with drops of liquid phenyl salicylate so that the transducer centers
are aligned within 2. When the phenyl salicylate is set, a wave generator sends a pulse through
the sample from one transducer while simultaneously transmitting that same pulse to an
oscilloscope. The receiving transducer also sends its signal to the oscilloscope. The time
difference that is measured on the oscilloscope between the direct pulse and its arrival after
traveling through the sample allows determination of the velocities of the shear and compressive
waves in the rock, since the sample length is known.
From the waves velocities and the sample bulk density, the dynamic elastic modulus and
dynamic Poissons ratio are calculated from the following formulae:
Ed =
d =
where
VS
VP
Ed
d
VP2 2VS2
2(VP2 VS2 )
321AcVelDynConst_UO_F12
These formulae are valid for isotropic rock samples. Even then, the expected error of E is 6%
and of is 24%. Five separate measurements are recommended for calculation of average
values.
3. Reporting of results
The report will include:
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Give the static and dynamic E and values as obtained from the test.
- Attach the test sheets used for the tests as appendix.
- Results
Discussion
- Discuss how E d and d values compare to E and v that you determined from the UCS
testing.
- Discuss your results by comparing your data against published data.
- Did you experience difficulties during testing? Do you have any recommendations on
the testing procedure?
Conclusion
-
4. References
American Society for Testing and Materials, 1995, Annual book of ASTM. Designation D
2845-95. Standard test method for laboratory determination of pulse velocities and ultrasonic
elastic constants of rock.
321AcVelDynConst_UO_F12
321AcVelDynConst_UO_F12
Date: _________________
Diameter 1: __________________
Diameter 2: ____________
Mode of failure
Notes:
321PointLoad_UO_F07
1.08_321PointLoad_UO_F01-02.doc
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Present the measured and calculated values in a table form (include P, D e , Is , and uc ).
Discussion
- Discuss how the point load determined UCS values compare to the direct UCS
testing.
- Discuss your results by comparing your data against published data.
- Did you experience difficulties during testing? Do you have any recommendations on
the testing procedure?
Conclusion
-
1.08_321PointLoad_UO_F01-02.doc
4. References
Standard Test Method for determination of the Point Load Strength Index of Rock. Designation:
D 5731 02. ASTM.
1.08_321PointLoad_UO_F01-02.doc
Operator: ______________
Rock type: __________________
Date: _________________
Diameter 1: __________________
Diameter 2: ____________
Mode of failure
Notes
1.09_321BTS_UO_F01-02.doc
When a solid cylinder is subjected to a diametrical force, a nearly uniform tensile stress field
develops across the loaded along the diametrical plane in the perpendicular direction to the
diameter see the section on Brazilian Tensile Strength in the Mechanical Properties of Rocks
chapter in you class lecture notes. This tensile stress field, when it becomes large enough, causes
a tensile failure to commence and propagate along the diametrical plane. This behavior is used
to determine the tensile strength of rocks by subjecting short cylinders of rock to diametrical
compressive loading in the testing machine.
The length of the cylinder is not important theoretically, but if the thickness to diameter ratio is
too small, failure may occur by buckling rather than by tension. Too long cylinders are also
avoided due to reducing loading accuracy with increasing specimen length. Normally, disc
thickness of about one quarter of the diameter is used.
A compressive force is applied at a rate similar to the maximum rate recommended for uniaxial
compressive strength (200 N/sec). The tensile stress developed, t , can be calculated using the
following equation:
t=
321BTS_UO_F12
2F
Dt
where F = failure load (Newton), D = disc diameter (mm), and t = disc thickness (mm).
3. Reporting of results
The report will include:
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Give the force applied at failure
- Calculate the BTS values for the specimens tested.
- Present your results in a table format.
- Note the failure plane and discuss its characteristics in terms of failure mode (shear,
compression or tension). State your observations of the edges of the specimen that
had been in contact with the steel plates during testing.
Discussion
- In the rock mechanics literature, the tensile strength is quoted as being 12 to 16 time
less than of the UCS of the rock. How does youre your compare against this rule of
thumb? Why?
- Did you experience difficulties during testing? Do you have any recommendations on
the testing procedure?
- List some of the experimental difficulties encountered in the indirect tensile strength
test.
Conclusion
-
321BTS_UO_F12
4. References
American Society for Testing and Materials, 1995, Annual book of ASTM Standard, Section
4, Vol. 04, 08, Designation D 3967-92.
321BTS_UO_F12
Operator: ______________
Rock type: __________________
Date: _________________
Diameter 1: __________________
Diameter 2: ____________
Mode of failure
Notes
321schmidtham_UO_F07
Correction Factor :
321schmidtham_UO_F12
HR =
H
i =1
8. Estimate the UCS for this specimen using the chart supplied at the end of this section.
3. Reporting of Results
321schmidtham_UO_F12
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Give the Calibration Factor F used for the Schmidt Hammer Hardness number
obtained from the test.
- Calculate the UCS values for the specimens tested using the chart given below.
Present your results in a table format.
- State your observations of the hammer indentations on the specimen surface related
Discussion
- How does Schmidt Hammer UCS results compare to the UCS values you obtained
from the PLI tests and direct testing using the MTS machine? Quantify the differences
in percentage terms and give a short discussion on possible reasons for the
differences.
- Did you experience difficulties during testing? Do you have any recommendations on
the testing procedure?
- List some of the experimental difficulties encountered in the indirect tensile strength
test.
Conclusion
-
321schmidtham_UO_F12
321schmidtham_UO_F12
Operator: ______________
Rock type: __________________
Date: _________________
Diameter 1: __________________
Diameter 2: ____________
Flatness: Pass
Fail
Straightness: Pass
Fail
Notes
Mode of failure
321Triax_UO_S12
2. Place the sample core into the cell and place the tightened assemblage on the bottom platen
of the testing machine.
3. Raise the lower platen until the cell is just supported in the machine.
4. Select a series of confining (radial) pressures ( 3 ) which gives a reasonably wide spread of
values of for the construction of Mohr circles.
5. Failure of the test specimen is indicated by a rapid increase in lateral pressure concurrently
with a fall in axial pressure.
6. Load each specimen axially at a steady and very slow rate to failure. Record the failure load.
Release load immediately, always keeping the axial pressure higher than radial pressure in
order to avoid rupturing the jacket enclosing the specimen.
7. Note that care must be taken when handling the jacket enclosing the failed specimens.
Where possible, remove the failed specimen in such a way as to be able to sketch the
appearance of the fracture and measure the direction of the plane of failure.
8. Repeat for the samples varying 3 each time.
3. Reporting of results
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Give a sketch or appearance of the failed specimen. Measure the shear plane angle
from horizontal.
321Triax_UO_S12
Tabulate the confined compressive strength and confining stress values obtained by
you and the other lab groups.
Plot the linear 1 vs 3 strength envelope for the rock by considering all the results
obtained by the entire class to determine the rocks
o uniaxial compressive strength,
o strengthening parameter, , and
o linear strength formula.
Plot Mohrs stress circles for each of the specimen tested by the class, including the
UCS results.
Determine the cohesion, c, and internal friction angle, , values from the Mohrs
envelope
Why do you think nearly all compressive strength tests on rocks are carried out on
cylindrical specimens?
Compare the cohesion, c, and internal friction angle, , values obtained from 1 - 3
plot against those obtained from the Mohrs circle linear failure envelope.
Discuss if the 1 - 3 plot can be used to determine the rocks tensile strength, give
recommendation.
Using the test result and Rocdata software, determine UCS, , c, and values of your
rock. How do your results from Mohr-Coulomb plots compare to Rocdata results?
Compare the uniaxial compressive strength value interpreted from the triaxial tests
against the results from a) the actual UCS tests you performed in the previous lab
class, b) point load index tests, and c) schmidt hammer tests. Which of the UCS
value do you think should be used in practice? Why?
The Mohr criterion of brittle failure suggests that the relation between the angle of
internal friction, , and the angle between the failure plane and the principal stress
plane is always given by
= 45o +
2
321Triax_UO_S12
Comment on how the parameter calculated from the above formula compare to your
specimens failure plane angle (see the first item in the Reporting of results section
above).
Conclusion
-
321Triax_UO_S12
Coring machine
Caliper with 0.001-inch accuracy
DR-44 Direct Shear Machine with specimen holding rings
The testing machine provides a direct shear strength reading for the normal load applied on the
discontinuity. Usually, the tests are performed using under three or more normal load levels.
The shear strength is established as function of normal stress by plotting the test results. The
procedures used in this laboratory exercise for specimen preparation and testing are given below.
Specimen preparation
1. Cut a sample that includes the discontinuity from the core with a length/diameter ratio of
approximately of 2:1. The length should be long enough to cast the specimen in the
upper and lower specimen holding rings.
2. Allow the specimen to air dry for at least 12 hours prior to testing.
3. Record all pertinent information and measurements on the test sheet.
4. Measure sample dimensions to include length and diameter at 3 points (all measurements
to the nearest 0.1 mm).
5. Measure the Joint Roughness Coefficient (JRC) and Joint Compressive Strength (JCS) of
the discontinuity.
6. Measure the specimen dimensions to determine shear surface area. Also record the
for the determination of normal and shear values at failure.
321DirectShear_UO_F12
7. Log the specimen to indicate the position, orientation, and condition of existing
discontinuities, such as joints, fractures and bedding/foliation. Make a sketch on the test
sheet to show any daylighting rock discontinuities on the specimen surface.
Testing
1. Place and secure the specimen between the platens of the testing machine.
2. Apply a normal stress magnitude (usually between 1 to 5 MPa) depending upon the type
of rock to being tested and the expected normal stresses that the discontinuity is likely to
be loaded in situ.
3. Load the upper part of the specimen on its side to create a shear motion along the
discontinuity surface in shear motion by activating the hydraulic cylinder of the test
apparatus.
4. Record the maximum shear load sustained by the specimen.
5. Make a sketch of the failure on the test sheet.
3. Reporting of results
Introduction
- Brief description
- Specific objectives
- Significance of the test
Methodology, equipment
- General information including testing equipment, lithological description of the rock,
specimen dimensions
- Brief description of testing procedure
Results
- Include in your report
o Normal stress shear strength plot of the test data
o Cohesion and friction angle
o JRC and JCS for the discontinuity surface
o Mohr- Coulomb shear strength of the discontinuity
o Barton shear strength of the discontinuity
321DirectShear_UO_F12
Discussion
- Comment on the reliability of your test results
- How do the two shear strength criteria compare?
Conclusion
-
321DirectShear_UO_F12
Procedure
Find Rocscience in Program files, find and run Examine2D. Once you are in the
program, go through these stages to set up the conditions for Problem 2:
1- In the Analysis tab, chose Project Settings and then check against Generalized
Hoek-Brown.
2- Calculate the virgin stress magnitude and enter these on the appropriate boxes on
the right margin.
Set k = 1, and rock mass density = 2650 kg/m3. Determine vertical component
of the virgin stress:
v = g H = [2650 (kg/m3) 9.81 (m/s2) 200 (m)] / 1x109
1 = v = 5.2 MPa
3- In the same margin, also enter the H-B strength properties as ci : 35 MPa; m b =
1.5; s = 0.042; a = 0.5. Leave the elastic properties as is, i.e. Em=10000 MPa and
Poissons ratio = 0.2.
4- Go to Boundaries tab and choose Add Excavation.
1
5- Use the small window on the bottom right of the screen for entering the
coordinates of the tunnel. Place the left tunnel center at location 0,0. You
should see the tunnel and the maximum stress distribution around it. Place your
second excavation to the right at 16 m centers.
6- Save your file.
Analysis
a) Answer Question 2 in the Stress around Excavations Chapter (see above)
b) How do your analytic and numerical modeling results compare?
c) Using the Strength Factor option in the program, evaluate the compressive
failure conditions around the excavations. Give a summary of your findings
supported by relevant plots.
d) Change the k-ratio to 0.5. What changes do you observe in terms of principal
stresses and strength factor around the excavations?
e) Change the k-ratio to 2. What changes do you observe in terms of principal
stresses and strength factor around the excavations?
f) Using the numerical model you have, determine the magnitude and direction of
the principal stresses at point A , located 2 m to the right from the excavation on
left as shown in the figure below, for the two different cases of k=0.5 and k=1.
g) Solve (f) above using the analytical formulae given in Page 8 of Chapter 6.
Compare your results to comment on the validity and similarity of the solutions of
(f) and (g).
Reporting
The report for this lab session will be prepared in the usual format described in the
Laboratory Class Outline section.
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
Location:.
Rock
Type:.
Date:.
Face Orientation:..
Recorded
by:..
Scanline Orientation:
D
(m)
L
(m)
Orientation
(Dip direction/Dip)
Comments
D: Distance to discontinuity. L: Length of discontinuity above scanline. T: Termination point (A=At another
discontinuity; I=In rock material; O=Obscured or out exposure). O: Orientation (Dip direction/Dip). C:
Curvature or waviness (1 to 5). R: Roughness (1 to 5). Comments Any + nature of any in filling present.
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
2. RQD MEASUREMENTS
The Rock Quality Designation (RQD) index is a core recovery percentage used to quantify
natural fracture where unrecovered core, fragments and small pieces of rock downgrade the
quality designation of rock containing these features.
2. 1. Purpose
The purpose of this laboratory exercise is to learn how to determine RQD (Rock Quality
Designation), RMR (Rock Mass Rating), and Q (Rock Tunneling Quality Index) from the given
rock core samples obtained from Edgar experimental mine. Later on during the semester, you
will be able to categorize and design support systems using RMR and Q values.
2. 2. Procedure
The RQD is basically a core recovery percentage in which all the pieces of sound core over 100
mm long are summed and divided by the length of the core run. The correct procedure for
measurement is illustrated in Figure 1.
The steps involved in calculating the RQD are:
1. Align the core from top to bottom as it was received from the core barrels (for the class: the
top and bottom of the boxes are already marked).
2. Measure the total length of the core barrel used to obtain the core run (for the class: each box
has capacity of 10 feet).
3. Measure the length of the core present in the box and divide it by total capacity of the box.
This will give you the total recovery percentage of the core.
4. Measure the length of the core pieces which are 4 inches or greater in length and add their
lengths and then divide it by total core run. This will give you the RQD percentage.
Core Size
RQD was originally developed for NX size core (2.16 in (54.7 mm) diameter). The experience
has shown that other core sizes are also applicable to recording RQD measurements. Variable
length requirements for RQD measurements have been proposed, for example instead of using
the standard 4 inch (100 mm) requisite length, a length equal to double the core diameter was
advocated. It is recommended that a 4 inch (100mm) requisite length should be used in all cases
for the purposes of standardization and comparison. Moreover, with good drilling techniques the
lengths of the core pieces will be same regardless of the core diameter, since the spacing of
natural unbounded joints does not change.
Measurement of Core Lengths
There are various ways to measure the length of a core piece. The same piece of core could be
measured along the centerline, from tip to tip or along the fully circular barrel section. The
recommended procedure is to measure the core length along the centerline as shown in Figure 1.
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
3. REPORTING OF RESULTS
In preparing your report, you will use the data you obtained from your scanline and RQD
measurements, except that you will share the dip direction data with the rest of the class. To
share the dip-direction data, put your data in an excel file in two columns (dip and dip direction)
and send the file to your TA. The TA will upload all groups dip / dip direction data on
Blackboard so that you can download the files from all the groups in class for your stereo net plot
of discontinuities.
The report will include the following:
Objective of the exercise
Summary of the scanline and measurement results, including
a) Number of acanline sections and core runs (or boxes) measured
b) Lithologic description of the rock (for each scanline / core run)
c) Core size in (diameter)
d) RQD determination for each box
f) Recovery calculation for each box
e) Any other visual observation for each box
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
g) Stereonet plot of your data to determine the number joints sets and their orientation.
h) RMR and Q values for the site
i) Verification of your RMR and Q values
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
1.14_321_EDGAR_ScanLine_RQDUO_12F.doc
Purpose
In this exercise you will analyze discontinuity (fracture) data using stereonets in establishing
number of joints sets and their orientation.
2.
Equipment
stereonets (provided)
tracing paper
3.
Procedure
This exercise consists of three parts, using the information you recorded for the fractures mapped
from the two mapping lines in the Edgar Mine:
a)
Stereonet plotting of joint poles
Each team mapped one line parallel to the shear zones (A-Left or B-Left) and one line
perpendicular to them (the Research Room or the Drill Display). Perform the following steps
separately for the data from each line:
i. Plot the poles for all the joints on a single stereonet overlay as practiced during the
laboratory class on the subject.
ii. Contour the density plot by hand on the overlay. Use 3 to 5 contours.
iii. Estimate and mark on the overlay, the location of the centers of density for each of the
clusters of joint poles. Each center of pole concentration, as indicated by the contours,
represents the average orientation of a joint set. Label each set.
b)
Once you have completed part (a), the next task is to determine the average joint properties of
each of the joint sets.
i. Tabulate the joints according to which set they belong to, including location on the
mapping line and all other characteristics.
ii. Calculate the apparent spacing between consecutive members of the same joint set.
Average the apparent spacings for each set.
MNGN321_Disc_Stereonets_UO_F08
iii. Determine the most common roughness, planarity, mineral lining/filling, and moisture
condition for each joint set.
4.
Reporting of Results
Report the mean orientation for each joint set from each mapping line. Report the complete
characteristics of an average fracture from each joint set, including apparent spacing. Discuss
any differences between the two lines and possible reasons for them.
Identify any potential failure blocks in the roof and in either rib. Discuss your findings.
Include the following as appendices:
All overlays and plots, fully labeled
Spreadsheet with all joint data, separated according to joint set
The hand calculation to check the spacing algorithm
5.
References
Brady, G.H.G. and E.T. Brown, 2004. Rock Mechanics for Underground Mining, 2nd edition,
Chapman & Hall, New York, Section 3.6 and Appendix A.
MNGN321_Disc_Stereonets_UO_F12
Objective of exercise
Brief background and description of the experimental process
Summary of the results
Compare RMR and Q values using the formulae given below:
RMR = 9 lnQ + 44 (Bieniawski, 1976)
321RQD_UO_F12
References
Deere, D. U. and Deere, D. W. The Rock Quality Designation (RQD) Index in Practice,
Rock Classification systems for Engineering Purposes, ASTM STP 984. Louis Kirkaldie.
Ed., American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, 1988, pp. 91-101
Brady, B. H. G. & Brown E. T. (2006) Rock Mechanics for Underground mining Chapman
& Hall, London (Third edition)
1.16_321RMR&Q_UO_F12.doc
Problem:
1. Calculate the safety factor for the 40 m high wedge (30.8 m on the slope)
with the characteristics given in the table below. Assume water in the
planes but no tension crack.
2. Perform an analysis of the effect of water pressure in the planes (fissures)
on the stability of the wedge. Use a plot of SF against fissure water levels.
3. Compare the effectiveness of applying bolts in the case of water filled
fissures to achieve the safety factor of the fully undrained fissures.
Plane
Dip
Dip
direction
Slope surface
65o
185 o
Upper surface
12 o
195 o
45 o
70 o
Cohesion
Friction
(kPa)
105 o
20 o
24
235 o
30 o
48
1
1.17_321_SWEDGE_SLIDE_F12.doc
2
1.17_321_SWEDGE_SLIDE_F12.doc
[Please supplement or modify these as appropriate for Course Activities or Field Trip.]
Hiking or walking along trails, sidewalks, walkways or even roads may cause damage to equipment or personal
injuries.
Vehicle and airplane accidents may result in property damage and physical injuries such as scrapes, abrasions,
sprains, broken bones, torn muscles or ligaments, head, neck or spinal injuries, or death.
Poisonous or dangerous plants, insects or animals might be encountered.
Exposure to the natural elements can be uncomfortable or harmful. Sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat
stroke, wind, rain, and being outdoors can be uncomfortable or cause injury or illness.
Risks also include injuries or damages resulting from certain decisions and conduct, including the risk that a course
instructor, co-instructor or other participant may misjudge someones capabilities, or misjudge weather, terrain,
water level, or route location etc.
Environmental risks include rapidly moving, deep or cold water, rough ocean surf, steep and rocky terrain, insects,
snakes, predators, and other animals; falling or rolling rock, hot molten lava, lightning, fires, flash floods and
unpredictable forces of nature, including weather that may change to extreme conditions without notice. Such
environmental conditions pose additional risks, including hypothermia, frostbite, frost nip, sunburn, heatstroke,
dehydration, and other mild or serious conditions.
Other risks include: Working in a non-production, underground mine.
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