Information Circular 9323


Rib Stability: Practical Considerations to Optimize Rib Design

1992

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The Bureau of Mines examined previous research on rib stability in an effort to develop a practical approach to understanding, characterizing, and controlling weak rib conditions in underground coal mines. Because success in stabilizing ribs depends on a basic knowledge of how weak ribs behave, the report reviews the mechanics of rib failure and the relationship of coal mine geology and pillar constraint to rib instability. Strategies for choosing an effective method of rib support are considered, and various rib support methods are discussed. Finally, the report documents techniques for monitoring ribs and use of models to assess rib stability; such monitoring and modeling can also help determine the most effective method for roof support.

Author(s):Smith-WC
Reference:U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, Information Circular 9323, 1992 Jan:1-16

   ic9323 (PDF, 3617 KB)


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Page last updated: September 17, 2008
Content Source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Mining Division