3D geological modeling of coal seams in the Karaganda Coal Basin

The study is aimed at creating a comprehensive geological model of the deposits in the Karaganda Coal Basin located in the articulation zone of the Caledonian and Hercynian fold areas. The Basin comprises four synclines explored to a depth of 1300 meters, and is composed of the Carboniferous and Jurassic age rocks. The basement of the Basin represents the Cambrian–Silurian strata. Coal seams exhibit various characteristics and belong to different suites, including the Tentek, Dolinka, Karaganda and Ashlyarik suites. The Basin is operated by eight mines owned by the Coal Department of ArcelorMittal Temirtau JSC. Three-dimensional models were divided into sections for more efficient mining management. The stages of geological modeling are outlined, involving setting of a coordinate base for geological exploration wells, statistical analysis, data reliability assessment, and creation of framework and block models. These research stages facilitated development of a comprehensive three-dimensional geological structure model enhancing efficiency of mining operations and enabling a detailed analysis of underground structures. The approach to constructing the framework model of a coal seam is described, implemented by calculating 3D coordinates of intersection points between the roof and floor based on the well data. This method is applied to both inclined and gently dipping coal seams. The calculated coordinates form the basis for creating triangulation and mesh models, which, after correction for fault blocks, generate an overall volumetric three-dimensional model of a coal seam. The integration of block models into mine workflows can significantly improve forecasting and planning, reducing risks and ensuring stability in the mining industry. The creation of a more accurate and detailed representation of the qualitative characteristics of coal seams contributes to effective mining management.

Mindubayev A. B., Portnov V. S., Kim V. O., Sadchikov A. V. 3D geological modeling of coal seams in the Karaganda Coal Basin. MIAB. Mining Inf. Anal. Bull. 2024;(9): 129-141. DOI: 10.25018/0236_1493_2024_9_0_129.

A.B. Mindubayev¹, Doctoral Student, e-mail: adil.mindubayev@mail.ru, ORCID ID: 0009-0005-0566-6308,
V.S. Portnov¹, Dr. Sci. (Eng.), Professor, e-mail: vs_portnov@mail.ru, ORCID ID: 0000-0002-4940-3156,
V.O. Kim¹, Doctoral Student, e-mail: vladislav.kim0712@gmail.com, ORCID ID: 0009-0004-0634-8136,
A.V. Sadchikov¹, Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Senior Lecturer, e-mail: a.sadchikov@kstu.kz, ORCID ID: 0000-0002-6022-2073,
¹ Abylkas Saginov Karaganda Technical University, 100012, Karaganda, Republic of Kazakhstan.

A.B. Mindubayev, e-mail: adil.mindubayev@mail.ru.

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