When looking at layers of exposed bedrock, you can often see beautiful striations and colour changes as one line of rock gives way to the next. Known as rock strata, these layers are formed over vast time periods and are deposited by hydrologic and geologic processes.
While exposed strata can be truly picturesque, it can also pose a risk for underground projects like mining and tunnelling. This risk can be mitigated through effective strata support, which greatly reduces safety risks such as ceiling collapses and increases the useable lifespan of the excavation.
Rock Strata Support Solutions
Recognising the need for effective bolts in strata support, we’ve developed a number of BluGeo products. These are effective for a wide range of conditions and worksites across the globe.
Since no two tunnelling projects are the same, our team of consultants is also on hand to work with project managers and contractors to ensure that they select the right equipment for their specific needs.
BluGeo GRP60
Projects that require easy-to-install anchoring solutions can benefit greatly from the BluGeo GRP60 continuously threaded solid bar. Made from glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GRP), the GRP60 bar is lightweight for easy working and handling. It is also corrosion-resistant, enabling a 100-year design life.
BluGeo GRP60 bars are available in 25mm and 32mm diameters, (22mm to 40mm can be procured upon request). The bars also feature high ultimate tensile strength at 350kN and 560kN for the 25mm and 32mm bar, respectively.
As BluGeo GRP60 is constructed from polymer and glass fibres, it is not conductive – eliminating stray currents and further improving safety. The continuous thread also means that the bar can be cut down to the necessary sizes without losing its efficacy or gripping ability.
BluGeo Low Profile Rock Bolt
One of the newest advances in tunnel bolting technology is the BluGeo LP Rock Bolt. It features a low-profile design that leads to significant cost savings. With a tail sitting less than 35 mm from the rock surface, only a nominal layer of shotcrete is needed for optimal coverage. This is thanks to the latest development in how the nut is attached to the bolt within the hole and capped off.
The LP Rock Bolt also offers increased durability with a low-profile design and double corrosion protection. This leads to stronger fire resistance and a 100-year design life. Featuring high tensile strength, the bolt also offers extra convenience for testing – the nut and plate don’t need to be removed first.
With these innovations, the BluGeo LP Rock Bolt will prove to be an invaluable asset in the strata support needs for any project.
BluGeo CF Rock Bolt – Low Profile Cable Flexible Anchor
Yet another advance in tunnel bolting technology is the BluGeo CF Rock Bolt. The long strand cable anchor allows flexibility for installation in tight environments. This bolt also features a low-profile design that leads to significant cost savings. The bolt is a whole new innovation of the existing double corrosion protection cable anchor. This is a significant advancement in technology, compared to the past 30 years.
How else can Bluey help?
Controlling strata depends on far more than just the right equipment. The right training and experience are just as important.
Such training is even part of Safe Work Australia’s Code of Practice for Strata Control in Underground Coal Mines. The code states that workers installing rock bolts for strata support should be properly trained in a number of areas, including:
- Correct placement of bolts based on a strata support plan
- Accuracy in straightness, length and diameter when drilling bolt holes
- Cleanliness of drilled holes
- Proper mixing of resin and nut tightening
- Surface reinforcement measures.
With industry-leading experience, our team of engineers and technicians can provide the necessary training to project workers, or lend their own expertise firsthand to a tunnelling project.
For more information about how Bluey can assist with your project’s strata support needs, get in touch with us today.
1300 0 BLUEY | bluey@bluey.com.au
