Course Overview

This two-day training will provide an in-depth introduction to the integration of Seismology and Numerical Modeling in mining. You will explore the IMAT (ITASCA’s Mining Analysis Tool) platform, a cutting-edge solution that streamlines subsurface geological understanding and facilitates the safe and efficient design of mining operations.

With a focus on both theory and hands-on applications, this course will allow participants to work directly with advanced modeling tools, including FLAC3D, MAP3D, and more. The training also covers seismic data interpretation, seismic systems, and the use of numerical models for improved decision-making in mining.

Who would benefit from this training?

• Seismologists
• Geotechnical Professionals
• Technical Managers
• Anyone interest in mining technology advancements

Agenda

Day 1: June 16 – Introduction to IMAT: Combining Seismology and Numerical Modeling

The integration of Seismology and Numerical Modelling presents a synergistic approach for acquiring a comprehensive understanding of subsurface geological conditions. Presently, mining operations frequently necessitate the expertise of external consultants to navigate the interface between these two disciplines. During this session, our objective is to dispel this prevailing misconception by elucidating seismological principles in a straightforward manner.

Highlights:

• Introduction to IMAT
  • Your gateway to revolutionary mining analysis.
• Seismic Systems Unveiled
  • Explore how they become your mining allies.
• Visualizing and Interpreting Seismic Data
  • Demystifying complexities.
• Local Magnitude vs Richter Magnitude
  • A simplified breakdown.
• Seismic Source Mechanisms
  • Mastering interpretation and calibration.
• Seismic Parameters for Rock Mass Insight:
  • Mitigate risks with knowledge.
• Extracting Seismic Data from Numerical Models
  • Bridging theory with practice.

Day 2: June 17 – Using IMAT to Build and Post-process Mine Scale Models

Hands-on Experience:

• CAD Magic
  • Transforming surveyed data into an automated mine scale model.
• MAP3D to FLAC3D Conversion
  • Streamlining the process for efficiency for existing users.
• Solving Models in FLAC3D through IMAT
  • Modeling made easy with clear workflows.
• Post-Processing Brilliance
  • Unveiling stress/strain results with ease.
• Post-Processing Large Mining Sequences
  • Generating Movies for Entire Mining Sequences.

Optional Day 3: June 18 – Advanced IMAT mine modeling training (FLAC3D)

IMAT has been developed to make building and analyzing FLAC3D model straightforward, fast, and accessible for non-modelers. However, for those that need something more, have their own functions or plots, or non-octree mesh — FLAC3D is always just a step away. FLAC3D is the engine powering IMAT, and IMAT communicates with it using commands and FISH functions via a data file. This file is open source and can be modified. You can also specify that IMAT generates FLAC3D save files and work with these for post-processing.

Highlights:

• IMAT and FLAC3D
• Working with FLAC3D grids in IMAT
• Using Block Models in FLAC3D
• Review of the IMAT generated FLAC3D datafile
• Overview of FLAC3D UI
• Working with plots in FLAC3D and movies in IMAT
• IMAT constitutive models
• IMASS constitutive model primer
• Introduction to / refresh of FISH
• Advanced FISH
• Factor of Safety Analysis in FLAC3D