Mining - Seismic Vibration

Client Background

A large mining client received a number of complaints relating to residential property damage due to mining activities in the area. Consequently a potential lawsuit could have developed between the mining client and the community. Complaints ranged from human disturbance to the demolition of a residential structure.

In spite of the many varying damage criteria established in the past, it is difficult to completely isolate vibration damage from damage caused by natural settling of the building, inadequate construction, old age, etc. Even if a valid “fool proof” damage criterion were established, the critical problem remains to eliminate or considerably reduce all complaints resulting from ground vibrations. Regardless of what the prevailing legal vibration limits are within a community.

Key Challenges

Proving the mine vibrating screen had no impact on distant residential structures.
Analysis of vibration frequencies relative to structural resonance.
Analysis of vibration due to varying load conditions.
Evaluating multiple vibrating screens during in-synch and out-of-synch operating conditions.
Compliance to specifications are summarised in the table below:

Martec Intervention

Performed a visual inspection on vibrating screen structures and components.
Assessed vibrating screens using vibration analysis.
Quantified the level of vibrations experienced at the suspected source.
Took measurements at defined locations, 500 m away and 1.5 km away.
Tracked vibration frequencies from source to destination.
Reported on findings with recommendations.

Value add

Our assessment of the structural integrity of the vibrating screen at the mine did reveal defects.
Once defects were detected and fixed asset life is extended and vibration on the screen structure reduced.
The concerns of the community were addressed as it was found there was no correlation between the mining activity and housing structural defects in the neighbouring area.
Compliance to regulations and specifications were adhered too during the assessment and legal liability was waivered addressing the clients concerns.

Tools and technology

Vibration analyser and software
Low frequency vibration sensors
Fast Fourier transform frequency analysis