Justification of structural parameters for transport drift support in mines with complex morphology

The significance of this study is determined by the necessity to substantiate the structural parameters of the transport drift support system operating under the complex mining and geological conditions of the Akzhal mine. Optimization of the support system is a key factor in ensuring the stability of mine workings, the safety of mining operations, and the prevention of rock mass deformations and collapses during underground exploitation. The aim of the study is to develop a geomechanical rationale for selecting the optimal structural parameters of the transport drift support, taking into account the stress–strain state of the rock mass and the geological features of the Akzhal deposit. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of rock mass stability and its behavior under the influence of mining-induced stresses during the excavation and operation of the drift. The study employed methods of geomechanical analysis, including assessment of rock mass strength and stability, determination of the structural weakening coefficient, deformation modulus based on jointing degree, and stability coefficient, as well as analytical functional relationships between geostructural factors affecting the condition of the support and drift walls. The results made it possible to classify the rocks by stability categories and propose rational structural parameters of the support that ensure reliable and safe operation of the transport drift under the conditions of the Akzhal mine. The developed recommendations are aimed at improving the stability of mine workings, reducing deformation risks, and extending their service life. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the comprehensive approach to predicting the behavior of the rock mass and justifying support parameters considering the geomechanical and structural characteristics of the deposit, which enhances the safety and efficiency of underground mining operations in the complex geological conditions of the Akzhal mine.

Bekbergenov D., Zeinullin A., Jangulova G., Zhanakova R., Bektibayev U. Justification of structural parameters for transport drift support in mines with complex morphology. MIAB. Mining Inf. Anal. Bull. 2026;(2-1):159-181. [In Russ]. DOI: 10.25018/0236_1493_2026_21_0_159.

The research was carried out within the framework of grant funding from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the implementation of research tasks according to the calendar plan for 2024-2026 of the D.A. Kunaev Institute of Applied Sciences on the research topic (GF 24-26, IRN AR 23488767) - «Development and justification of effective systems for mining ore deposits of complex morphology».

D. Bekbergenov, Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Head of Laboratory, D.A. Kunaev Institute of Mining, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Mining Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, e-mail: kdbekbergen@mail.ru, ORCID ID: 0000-0002-7866-1031,
A. Zeinullin, Dr. Sci. (Eng.), Professor, K. Kulazhanov Kazakh University of Technology and Business, Astana, Kazakhstan, e-mail: karim_57@mail.ru, ORCID ID: 0000-0001-8069-0037,
G.K. Jangulova, Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Professor, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, e-mail: gulnarzan@gmail.com, ORCID ID: 0000-0002-7866-1031,
R.K. Zhanakova, PhD, Associate Professor, Satbayev University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, e-mail: zhanakova_raisa@mail.ru, e-mail: r.zhanakova@satbayev.university, ORCID ID: 0000-0003-0845-8449,
U. Bektibayev, Head of Laboratory, D.A. Kunaev Institute of Mining, Almaty, Kazakhstan, e-mail: uays.bektibaev@mail.ru, ORCID ID: 0000-0003-0273-9657.

R.K. Zhanakova, e-mail: zhanakova_raisa@mail.ru.

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