Structural Evaluation of Cable Bolts under Static Loading

Abstract

Rock bursts are a natural phenomenon that are caused by high stresses and faults within the deep geological profile. The framework within deep mining excavations, comprising various rock and face supports such as cable bolts, is required to withstand rock bursts. These mechanisms are subject to static and dynamic loading conditions which possess unique challenges. This study focused on the shearing impact of static loads on cable bolts, a key structural support mechanism designed to absorb energy and investigate the impacts of bolt diameter and strength. A double shear test was modelled using the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software ABAQUS/Explicit. A double shear test was modelled using Finite Element Modelling (FEM) by creating individual parts, assigning material and contact properties and applying a load directly on the central block. Because ABAQUS/Explicit was used, a primarily dynamic analysis tool, quasi-static loading, was applied to negate the natural time scale. A total of six bolt diameters and six bolt strengths were tested. A positive correlation was exhibited between the bolt diameter, yield strength and the maximum force and displacement.