CA2678136A1 - Welded mesh rock support system for bursting and squeezing ground - Google Patents
Welded mesh rock support system for bursting and squeezing ground Download PDFInfo
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- CA2678136A1 CA2678136A1 CA 2678136 CA2678136A CA2678136A1 CA 2678136 A1 CA2678136 A1 CA 2678136A1 CA 2678136 CA2678136 CA 2678136 CA 2678136 A CA2678136 A CA 2678136A CA 2678136 A1 CA2678136 A1 CA 2678136A1
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- mesh
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- support system
- reinforcing
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- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 68
- 230000009172 bursting Effects 0.000 title description 2
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 112
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 29
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 claims description 29
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 27
- 230000002787 reinforcement Effects 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 abstract description 10
- 210000002435 tendon Anatomy 0.000 description 18
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 13
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 11
- 238000004873 anchoring Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000011440 grout Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000000153 supplemental effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007596 consolidation process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005065 mining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21D—SHAFTS; TUNNELS; GALLERIES; LARGE UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS
- E21D11/00—Lining tunnels, galleries or other underground cavities, e.g. large underground chambers; Linings therefor; Making such linings in situ, e.g. by assembling
- E21D11/14—Lining predominantly with metal
- E21D11/15—Plate linings; Laggings, i.e. linings designed for holding back formation material or for transmitting the load to main supporting members
- E21D11/152—Laggings made of grids or nettings
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Devices Affording Protection Of Roads Or Walls For Sound Insulation (AREA)
Abstract
A mesh panel is provide as part of a surface rock support system which has been pre-incorporated therein a reinforcing complex which is selected to provide enhanced surface retention properties. The mesh panel is preformed as an integrated rectangle panel having a length of about 2 to 4 metres, and a lateral width of between about 1 and 3 metres. The panel includes a series #4 gauge or smaller of first mesh wires which are provided in a spaced apart generally parallel first alignment; and a number of equally #4 gauge or smaller spaced second mesh wires which are welded to the first mesh wires in an orientation perpendicular thereto. The reinforcing complex includes two or more reinforcing rods selected from #0, #1 or #2 gauge wire which are provided in a parallel spaced apart arrangement extending longitudinally and/or laterally across part of the panel, and which are welded to any overlapping mesh wires.
Description
WELDED MESH ROCK SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR BURSTING AND SQUEEZING
GROUND
SCOPE OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a mesh panel for use as part of a rock roof and/or wall rock support system, and more preferably a welded metal panel which has integrally formed therewith a reinforcing complex which includes three or more #0, #1, and/or #2 gauge wire reinforcing rods. The invention can be used in grounds where enhanced surface retention elements are required, such as under rock burst and squeezing conditions. The invention facilitates quick installation of rock support system and therefore reduces the overall cost of ground support.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In mine roof and rock wall support systems, it is known to anchor tendons within bore holes formed into the rock complex to reinforce the rock. The tendons can consist of various types such as mechanically operable rock bolts, rebar bolts, SwellexTM bolts, cable bolt, friction stabilizers such as Friction SetTM bolts, and the like. In virtually all cases, a washer plate of varying thickness and size is installed on the bolt to secure the bolt to the rock. Some types of tendons, more often called bolts, have a compression nut or other fastener coupled onto the projecting bolt end and which is used to tension the washer plate against the rock to reinforce and support the rock mass. Other bolts, such as the Swellex bolt, Friction Set bolt and forged head rock bolts and rebar have formed heads that cannot be tensioned, but which are simply pushed tight against the rock surface.
Conventionally, tendons used in rock support systems for underground mining applications consist of elongated rock bolts, rebar, conebolts, friction stabilizers, Swellex, cable bolts, etc. With such systems, following seating of the bolt in the bore hole, sheets or rolls of wire mesh screen are thereafter secured to the projecting end of the bolts with a washer plate and nut. The screens are provided to retain any localized loose rock which may fall from the roof or wall of the mine openings. In addition, if tensioned against the rock face, the screen may add additional support to the rock, by resisting any movement of the loose rock in between the bolts.
Typically conventional mesh screen and panels must be manually raised into position.
Bolts with pre-installed washer plates are then inserted through a screen opening and then slid into the drill hole. Depending on how each bolt is designed to function, the bolts are then secured in place. Alternatively in the case of bolts with threaded ends, conventional mesh screen and panels can be manually raised into position over the projecting bolt ends, and secured in place thereafter using a washer plate and a threaded nut or fastener. To minimize weight and allow manual placement, heretofore mesh screens have been manufactured as sheets or rolls of #4 to 12 gauge steel wire. The screen sizes can vary depending on the bolting pattern required, however typical widths range from 1.2m to 2m and in the case of sheets, with lengths of from
GROUND
SCOPE OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a mesh panel for use as part of a rock roof and/or wall rock support system, and more preferably a welded metal panel which has integrally formed therewith a reinforcing complex which includes three or more #0, #1, and/or #2 gauge wire reinforcing rods. The invention can be used in grounds where enhanced surface retention elements are required, such as under rock burst and squeezing conditions. The invention facilitates quick installation of rock support system and therefore reduces the overall cost of ground support.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In mine roof and rock wall support systems, it is known to anchor tendons within bore holes formed into the rock complex to reinforce the rock. The tendons can consist of various types such as mechanically operable rock bolts, rebar bolts, SwellexTM bolts, cable bolt, friction stabilizers such as Friction SetTM bolts, and the like. In virtually all cases, a washer plate of varying thickness and size is installed on the bolt to secure the bolt to the rock. Some types of tendons, more often called bolts, have a compression nut or other fastener coupled onto the projecting bolt end and which is used to tension the washer plate against the rock to reinforce and support the rock mass. Other bolts, such as the Swellex bolt, Friction Set bolt and forged head rock bolts and rebar have formed heads that cannot be tensioned, but which are simply pushed tight against the rock surface.
Conventionally, tendons used in rock support systems for underground mining applications consist of elongated rock bolts, rebar, conebolts, friction stabilizers, Swellex, cable bolts, etc. With such systems, following seating of the bolt in the bore hole, sheets or rolls of wire mesh screen are thereafter secured to the projecting end of the bolts with a washer plate and nut. The screens are provided to retain any localized loose rock which may fall from the roof or wall of the mine openings. In addition, if tensioned against the rock face, the screen may add additional support to the rock, by resisting any movement of the loose rock in between the bolts.
Typically conventional mesh screen and panels must be manually raised into position.
Bolts with pre-installed washer plates are then inserted through a screen opening and then slid into the drill hole. Depending on how each bolt is designed to function, the bolts are then secured in place. Alternatively in the case of bolts with threaded ends, conventional mesh screen and panels can be manually raised into position over the projecting bolt ends, and secured in place thereafter using a washer plate and a threaded nut or fastener. To minimize weight and allow manual placement, heretofore mesh screens have been manufactured as sheets or rolls of #4 to 12 gauge steel wire. The screen sizes can vary depending on the bolting pattern required, however typical widths range from 1.2m to 2m and in the case of sheets, with lengths of from
2.4m to 3.35m so as to maintain a sheet or roll weight of less than about 50 lbs.
It has been recognized, however, that the surface retaining elements are most often the weakest component in a rock support system. As such, while conventional mesh screen may operate adequately to retain smaller rock debris and material which may fall or deform, it is poorly suited to assist in rock retention in a rock burst situation where dynamic loading is expected.
To improve the overall performance of the rock support systems, consideration has been given to various methods of increasing the surface retention properties of the mesh screen. In one possible construction, separate heavy gauge metal straps could be secured to the rock bolts in a position overlying the conventional screens, as a second supplemental support. However, the applicant has appreciated that the requirement for an installer to separately install such secondary separate rock support components would further complicate the rock support system installation, increasing both installation time and overall costs. In general, the second-pass installation of metal straps would be very costly, and may interfere with the normal production schedule in a mine. In addition, in installation, any supplemental support strap would need to be coupled to the projecting ends of the anchor bolts as a third component after the placement of both the compression nut and the primary screens. This therefore may necessitate the use of either longer threaded ends or less-deeply seated anchor tendons. Furthermore, the pre-positioning and anchoring of conventional metal screen ahead of any secondary strapping would result in the strapping being secured in place at distance spaced 5 to 10 cm from the rock face, so as to be less beneficial in rock retention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, a present object of the invention is to provide a metal mesh screen panel for a mine roof and wall rock support system which is adapted for simplified manual installation, and which when installed is adapted to provide enhanced surface retention of any localized loose rock, so as to minimize the possibility of rock bursts and/or rock falls.
A further object of the invention is to provide an integrated weld mesh panel for ground support applications which has integrally formed therein a series of reinforcing rods or wires which have a diameter selected at about 2 gauge or greater, and which may be used in conjunction with conventional rock bolt tendons, including without restriction, cable bolts, rebars, SwellexTM tendon systems, and yielding tendon systems such as conebolts and friction sets for both static and/or dynamic rock support applications.
Another object of the invention is to provide a welded metal mesh panel for use as part of a surface rock support system which has been pre-incorporated therein as part of a unitary structure, a reinforcing complex which is configured to provide enhanced surface retention properties performance, while facilitating the rock support system installation in a faster and more economical manner.
It has been recognized, however, that the surface retaining elements are most often the weakest component in a rock support system. As such, while conventional mesh screen may operate adequately to retain smaller rock debris and material which may fall or deform, it is poorly suited to assist in rock retention in a rock burst situation where dynamic loading is expected.
To improve the overall performance of the rock support systems, consideration has been given to various methods of increasing the surface retention properties of the mesh screen. In one possible construction, separate heavy gauge metal straps could be secured to the rock bolts in a position overlying the conventional screens, as a second supplemental support. However, the applicant has appreciated that the requirement for an installer to separately install such secondary separate rock support components would further complicate the rock support system installation, increasing both installation time and overall costs. In general, the second-pass installation of metal straps would be very costly, and may interfere with the normal production schedule in a mine. In addition, in installation, any supplemental support strap would need to be coupled to the projecting ends of the anchor bolts as a third component after the placement of both the compression nut and the primary screens. This therefore may necessitate the use of either longer threaded ends or less-deeply seated anchor tendons. Furthermore, the pre-positioning and anchoring of conventional metal screen ahead of any secondary strapping would result in the strapping being secured in place at distance spaced 5 to 10 cm from the rock face, so as to be less beneficial in rock retention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, a present object of the invention is to provide a metal mesh screen panel for a mine roof and wall rock support system which is adapted for simplified manual installation, and which when installed is adapted to provide enhanced surface retention of any localized loose rock, so as to minimize the possibility of rock bursts and/or rock falls.
A further object of the invention is to provide an integrated weld mesh panel for ground support applications which has integrally formed therein a series of reinforcing rods or wires which have a diameter selected at about 2 gauge or greater, and which may be used in conjunction with conventional rock bolt tendons, including without restriction, cable bolts, rebars, SwellexTM tendon systems, and yielding tendon systems such as conebolts and friction sets for both static and/or dynamic rock support applications.
Another object of the invention is to provide a welded metal mesh panel for use as part of a surface rock support system which has been pre-incorporated therein as part of a unitary structure, a reinforcing complex which is configured to provide enhanced surface retention properties performance, while facilitating the rock support system installation in a faster and more economical manner.
3 To at least partially achieve some of the aforementioned objects, the present invention provides for a rock support system which includes a welded mesh panel, and which in a preferred mode of installation is configured for securement over the projecting ends of rock bolt tendons for securement in substantially juxtaposed contact against a rock complex. The mesh panel is most preferably preformed as an integrated mesh panel having a length of between about 2 to 4 metres, and preferably about 2.4 to 3.35 metres, and a lateral width of between about 1 and 3 metres, and more preferably about 1.2 to 2 metres.
In simplified construction, the mesh panel is provided having a generally rectangular shape having parallel longitudinal extending sides and laterally extending ends, however, square, polygonal or other shaped panels may also be used. The panel is provided with a number of mesh openings which are defined laterally and longitudinally by a series of first and second mesh members, as well as a reinforcing complex which includes a number of reinforcing wires or rods.
The first and second mesh members are most preferably provided in the form of #4 to 12 gauge metal wire or bar stock. In assembly, the first mesh wires are provided in an equi-spaced and generally parallel first alignment. The second mesh members which are provided in a spaced apart parallel second alignment, which although not essential, is most preferably arranged perpendicular to the first mesh members. The reinforcing wires or rods are welded in a position overlapping selected ones of the first and/or the second mesh members as part of an integrated reinforcing complex which is configured to provide enhanced structural integrity to the panel, and which avoids the requirement to separately apply secondary reinforcing straps and the like, thus making the installation of both static and dynamic rock support systems in one-pass possible.
In a simplified construction, the reinforcing complex consists of two or more reinforcing members which extend the longitudinal length and/or lateral width of the panel, and which are selected from #2 gauge, #1 gauge, or most preferably #0 gauge cylindrical metal wire. The reinforcing wires are most preferably provided as grouping of at least two longitudinally and/or laterally adjacent wires which are oriented in a parallel and equally spaced apart arrangement. In a most preferred construction, the first and second mesh members, and the reinforcing wires are welded to each other with a spacing selected at between about 7.5 to 15 cm, and more preferably
In simplified construction, the mesh panel is provided having a generally rectangular shape having parallel longitudinal extending sides and laterally extending ends, however, square, polygonal or other shaped panels may also be used. The panel is provided with a number of mesh openings which are defined laterally and longitudinally by a series of first and second mesh members, as well as a reinforcing complex which includes a number of reinforcing wires or rods.
The first and second mesh members are most preferably provided in the form of #4 to 12 gauge metal wire or bar stock. In assembly, the first mesh wires are provided in an equi-spaced and generally parallel first alignment. The second mesh members which are provided in a spaced apart parallel second alignment, which although not essential, is most preferably arranged perpendicular to the first mesh members. The reinforcing wires or rods are welded in a position overlapping selected ones of the first and/or the second mesh members as part of an integrated reinforcing complex which is configured to provide enhanced structural integrity to the panel, and which avoids the requirement to separately apply secondary reinforcing straps and the like, thus making the installation of both static and dynamic rock support systems in one-pass possible.
In a simplified construction, the reinforcing complex consists of two or more reinforcing members which extend the longitudinal length and/or lateral width of the panel, and which are selected from #2 gauge, #1 gauge, or most preferably #0 gauge cylindrical metal wire. The reinforcing wires are most preferably provided as grouping of at least two longitudinally and/or laterally adjacent wires which are oriented in a parallel and equally spaced apart arrangement. In a most preferred construction, the first and second mesh members, and the reinforcing wires are welded to each other with a spacing selected at between about 7.5 to 15 cm, and more preferably
4 about 10 cm, so as to define an integral panel which has a number of generally square mesh openings therethrough. The reinforced longitudinal and laterally adjacent wires can be spaced at different distances from the remainder of the #4 to #12 gauge wires. An example of such spacing would be at the standard 100mm x 100mm of longitudinal and laterally adjacent wires and the reinforced #0 or #1 or #2 can be spaced at a lesser interval i.e. 50mm, to further reinforce the edges. The final panel dimensions and mesh opening size are selected to provide the panel with an overall weight of less than about 60 lbs, and most preferably less than 50 lbs.
In a most simplified construction, the reinforcing complex comprises at least one grouping of three or more #0 gauge steel reinforcing wires which extend longitudinally immediate-most to one longitudinal edge of the panel. The applicant has appreciated that in such a construction, the reinforcing complex may advantageously be overlapped with a non-reinforced longitudinal edge of a next adjacent panel. In alternate constructions, however, the reinforcing complex may include reinforcing wires provided down a lateral mid or end portions of the panel, and/or along both longitudinal and lateral edges.
Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention resides in a surface rock support system comprising, a mesh panel having generally parallel spaced first and second side edges and parallel spaced first and second ends, the panel being provided as an integral unit and including, a plurality of first mesh members, the first mesh members being provided in general parallel alignment with one of said first side edge and said first end, a plurality of second mesh members, the second mesh members being provided in general parallel alignment with each other and the other of said first side edge and said first end being coupled to said first mesh members, and at least one reinforcement complex comprising at least two elongated reinforcing members coupled to the first mesh members, the reinforcing members being generally equally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the reinforcing members are selected from the group consisting of #0 gauge metal wire, #1 gauge metal wire and #2 gauge metal wire.
In another aspect, the present invention resides a mine shaft rock wall support system comprising, a generally rectangular mesh panel having generally parallel longitudinally extending first and second side edges, and generally parallel laterally extending first and second ends, the panel further including, a plurality of longitudinally extending first mesh members, each first mesh members being laterally spaced from a next adjacent first mesh members, and a plurality of laterally extending second mesh members, each second mesh members being longitudinally spaced from next adjacent second mesh member and coupled to each of the immediately adjacent first mesh members, a reinforcement complex comprising at least four elongated reinforcing members, the reinforcing members being generally immediately adjacent and spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the reinforcing members are coupled to each of the immediately adjacent first mesh members, wherein the reinforcing members are selected from the group consisting of #0 gauge round metal wire, #1 gauge round metal wire and #2 gauge round metal wire.
In a further aspect the present invention resides in a mine wall rock support system comprising, an integral mesh panel having generally parallel longitudinally extending first and second side edges, and generally parallel laterally extending first and second ends, the panel further including, a plurality of longitudinally extending first mesh members coupled to said first mesh members, the first mesh members being laterally spaced from a next adjacent first mesh member, and a plurality of laterally extending second mesh members, the second mesh members being longitudinally spaced from next adjacent second mesh members and coupled to each immediately adjacent first mesh members, an edge reinforcement assembly adjacent said first side edge, the reinforcing assembly comprising at least three longitudinally extending reinforcement members, the longitudinally extending reinforcing members being generally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the longitudinally extending reinforcing members are coupled to each immediately adjacent first mesh members, an end reinforcement assembly adjacent said first end, the end reinforcing assembly comprising at least three laterally extending reinforcing members, the laterally extending reinforcing members being generally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the first mesh members, each of the laterally extending reinforcing members being coupled to immediately adjacent ones of said second mesh members and said longitudinally extending reinforcing members and comprising #0 gauge cylindrical steel wire.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference may now be had to the following detailed description, taken together with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective top view of a welded mesh panel for use in a mine roof rock support system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 shows an enlarged perspective end view of the panel shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows schematically the welded mesh panel of Figure 1 installed as part of a rock support system in the dynamic support of a rock complex;
Figure 4 illustrates a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 shows a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 illustrates a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7 shows a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention; and Figure 8 illustrates a top view of a pair of welded mesh panels installed in accordance with field application of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Reference may be had to Figure 1 which illustrates a welded mesh panel 12, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. As will be described, the panel 12 is adapted for mounting substantially in position within less than about 4 cm, and more preferably less than about 2.5 cm from the face 6 of a rock complex 8 as part of a mine roof rock support system 10 (Figure 3). The positioning of the mesh panel 12 in such a position substantially juxtaposed with the rock face 6 allows its use in the retention and compression of the rock complex 8 while providing enhanced rock support.
The mesh panel 12 is formed having an overall rectangular shape with parallel longitudinally extending sides 14a, 14b and parallel spaced ends 16a, 16b. In a most preferred construction, the panel has a finished weight selected at less than about 50 lbs and a longitudinal length selected at between about 2.4 to 3.35 metres, and a width of about 1.2 to 2 metres.
The mesh panel 12 is characterized by a series of equally sized square mesh openings 18 which have longitudinal and lateral lengths selected at between about 7 and 14 cm, and most preferably about 10 cm. The mesh openings 18 are defined by a number of laterally extending wire members 20, and either a number of longitudinally extending wire members 22 or a reinforcing complex 24 which preferably consists of four longitudinally oriented reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d. The lateral wire members 20, longitudinal wire members 22 and reinforcing rods 26 are welded to each other in a grid arrangement to provide the panel 12 with an integral unitary structure. Each of the lateral wire members 20 consists of a #4 to #12 gauge, and preferably #4 gauge cylindrical steel wires. The wire members 20 are equally spaced longitudinally approximately 10 cm from each other, and extend in a lateral direction from the first panel side 14a to the second longitudinal side 14b.
The longitudinally wire members 22 are most preferably formed from the same gauge cylindrical steel wire as the lateral wire members 20. Each of the longitudinal wire members are provided in a perpendicular orientation to that of lateral wire members 20, and extend from the first panel end 16a to the second panel end 16b. The longitudinally extending wire members 22 are provided in an equally parallel spaced arrangement, so as to be separated laterally from each other by a distance substantially equal to the longitudinal spacing of the lateral wire members 20.
Although not essential, for enhanced structural integrity, each longitudinal wire member 22 is preferably welded directly to the surface of lateral wire member 20 at the point of overlapping contact.
Figure 1 shows the reinforcing complex 24 as extending longitudinally the length of the panel 12, immediately adjacent to the side 14a. The reinforcing complex 24 extends the longitudinal length of the panel 12 and has a lateral width selected at between about 10 to 40 cm, depending upon the grid spacing of the panel 12. The reinforcing rods 26 are most preferably formed from #0 gauge round wire. The reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d have a length corresponding to that of the longitudinal wire members 22 and are arranged parallel thereto.
Most preferably, the reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d are laterally spaced from each other and from the next adjacent longitudinal wire 22a as to provide the mesh panel 12 with a generally square open mesh configuration. Although not essential, as shown best in Figure 2 in a most preferred construction, the reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d are also welded to the upper surface (the same side as wire member 22) of each intersecting lateral wire members 20 at each point of overlapping contact.
Although simpler in design and manufacturing, equally spaced reinforced longitudinal and laterally adjacent wire members 22,20 can be spaced at different distances from the remainder of the #4 to #12 gauge wires. An example of such spacing would be at the standard l 00mm x 100mm of laterally and longitudinal adjacent wires 20,22, with the #0 or #1 or #2 gauge reinforcing rods 26 spaced at an equal or a lesser interval i.e. 50mm, to further reinforce the panel sides 14 and/or ends 16.
As shown best in Figure 3, the positioning of the reinforcing complex 24 adjacent to the panel side 14a enables the simplified completion and installation of a rock support system 10 providing enhanced rock support and surface retention capacity when installed against the rock face 6 of the rock complex 8. The increased gauge thickness of the reinforcing rods 26 result in their being less likely to be cut by the bearing plate 50. In a simplified mode of installation, in a conventional manner a series of bore holes 30a, 30b are drilled to a desired depth in the rock complex 8. Following the formation of the bore holes 30a, 30b, an associated anchor tendon 32a, 32b is thereafter secured in each bore hole 30a, 30b by means of anchoring grout 34. The anchoring tendons 32 are secured in place such that their proximalmost end 36 projects outwardly beyond the rock face 6 a sufficient distance to serve as a mounting support for the mesh panel 12 of the present invention. Once the grout 34 sets, a tensioning nut 40 is run over the end portion 36 and tightened against the rock face 6. It is to be appreciated however, that where other tendon types are used, such as a cable bolt, forged head rebar, Swellex or Friction Set bolt or the like having either a formed or forged head, tensioning of the plate may not be possible.
Following the final placement of the anchor tendons 32 and the consolidation of rock forces thereby, a series of mesh panels 12', 12" are positioned over the tendon ends 36. In particular, the panel openings 18, allow the panels 12 to be slid over the tendons- 32 and into generally juxtaposed contact against the rock face 6. Each mesh panel 12 is positioned with the reinforcing complex 24 of a first mesh panel 12' in direct underlying juxtaposition with the non-reinforced longitudinal side 14b of a next adjacent mesh panel 12". Following mesh panel placement, a bearing plate 50, which typically consists of a 15 by 15 cm square steel plate, is slid over the tendon end 36. The bearing plate 50 is then coupled in place by threading a further nut 52 or other fastener onto the tendon 32 to complete the support system 10. It is to be appreciated that in this configuration, the reinforcing complex 24 of the panel 12' provides enhanced structural support not only to the panel 12', but also to the next adjacent mesh panel 12". In addition, the larger diameter of the #0 gauge reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d provide increased reinforcement to the support system 10, achieving enhanced surface retention as the mesh panels 12', 12" are secured in place. Because each mesh panel 12 is provided as a preformed integral unit, the panels 12 may be installed manually in a single operation, without the requirement of a subsequent installation procedure for reinforcing straps and the like, which is often required in rock burst conditions.
While the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1 describes a simplified mesh panel 12 having a single reinforcing complex 24 along one longitudinal panel side 14a only, the invention is not so limited. Reference may be had to Figures 4 to 8 which illustrate alternate mesh panel constructions, in which like numerals are used to identify like components.
Reference may be had to Figure 4 which illustrates an integrated welded mesh panel 12 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. In Figure 4, the mesh panel 12 is characterized by a reinforcing complex 124 which extends about the entire periphery of the welded mesh panel 12. In this regard, the reinforcing complex 24 is characterized by two spaced groupings of longitudinally extending reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c and 26a', 26b', 26c' which are spaced respectively, immediately adjacent to each of the longitudinal panel sides 14a, 14b.
In addition, the reinforcing complex 124 includes two spaced groupings of laterally extending reinforcing rods 126a, 126b, 126c and 126a', 126b', 126c', adjacent respectively to each panel ends 16a, 16b. Each of the reinforcing rods 26,126 consists of a #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel round wire. The laterally extending reinforcing rods 126a, 126b, 126c and 126a', 126b', 126c' extend normal to, and are welded to each respective overlapping reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c and 26a', 26b', 26c'.
At equally spaced positions between the innermost longitudinal reinforcing rods 26c, 26c', the panel 12 is provided with a series of parallel and equally spaced #9 gauge or larger diameter steel lateral wire members 22. The longitudinal wire members 22 extend parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction from the panel end 16a to end 16b.
Similarly, a series of laterally extending #12 gauge or larger diameter wire members 20 are provided laterally across the panel 12, between the innermost lateral reinforcing rods 126c, 126c'. The lateral wire members 20 extend parallel from each other from side 14a to side 14b, the wires 20, 22 are welded to each other as well as the reinforcing rods 26, 126 at each point of overlapping contact.
It is to be appreciated that the peripheral extent of the reinforcing complex 24 allows the use of smaller gauge wires 20, 22, thus decreasing the overall panel weight.
Figure 5 illustrates a welded mesh panel 12 in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention. In Figure 5, the panel 12 is provided with reinforcing complex 224 which extends laterally across a mid-section of the panel 12. The reinforcing complex 224 consists of four laterally extending and parallel spaced #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d. Each of the steel reinforcing rods 26 extend from the first longitudinal panel side 14a to the second side 14b in an orientation generally parallel to each other, and to the laterally extending wire members 20. As with the welded mesh panel 12 of Figure 1, each of the reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d and lateral wire members 20 are welded to overlapping positions of each longitudinally extending wire member 22, to form a single unitary panel.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate welded mesh panels 12 in accordance with further embodiments of the invention, wherein like reference numerals are used to identify like components. Figure 6 is characterized by a reinforcing complex 324 which extends along both the first longitudinal panel side 14a, as well as the second lateral panel end 16b. The portion of reinforcing complex 324 which is adjacent to the panel side 14a consists of four parallel and equally spaced, longitudinal extending #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d. The portion of the complex 324 along the panel end 16b includes four #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel reinforcing rods 126a',126b',126c', and 126d' which extend laterally from the panel side 14a to the panel side 14b. The mesh panel 12 of Figure 6 advantageously allows the reinforcing complex 324 to be positioned under both a respective unreinforced longitudinal side and unreinforced end of a next adjacent panel 12. This configuration allows for the complete overlap between reinforced and unreinforced portions of adjacent panels 12 in the installation of the rock support system 10.
The panel 12 shown in Figure 7 is provided with substantially identical reinforcing complex 324 shown in Figure 6, with the exception that further edge reinforcing rods 226a',326a are welded in place along the remaining panel side 14b and end 16a to provide reinforcement along the entire periphery of the mesh panel 12.
Figure 8 illustrates one actual field application of the mesh panels 12a,12b as shown in Figure 1. Yielding tendons 32 such as conebolts are installed in the longitudinal direction at the reinforcing complex 26. Two panels 12,12b are overlapped with the mesh panel 12a positioned with the reinforcing complex 24a of a first mesh panel 12a underlying the non-reinforced longitudinal side 14b' of a next adjacent mesh panel 12b. Conventional tendons 32 such as rebars are installed over the mesh panel in the centre portion. To increase the area coverage of selected bearing plates 50, a mesh reinforcing plate 150 made of #0 gauge steel wire is furthermore provided.
Although the detailed description describes the reinforcing rods 26 and longitudinally wire members 22 as being welded to a top surface of each of the lateral wire members 20, the invention is not so limited. In an alternate configuration, the reinforcing rods 26 and/or longitudinal wires 22 could be provided on a lower surface of the wire members 20 alternately, in an arrangement staggered, alternating on top and bottom surfaces of the lateral wires 20.
While the preferred embodiment of the invention describes the reinforcing rods 26 as comprising #0 gauge metal wire, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that the reinforcing complex 24 could include smaller gauge wires, including wires of #1 and/or #2 gauge, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Although the detailed description describes the lateral wire members 20 and longitudinal wire members 22 as being of substantially the same gauge thickness, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that in alternate possible configuration, the wire members 20 could be made either with a larger or smaller wire gauge thickness than the longitudinally extending wire members 22. Similarly, while the use of round or cylindrical steel wire permits a simplified construction, it is to be appreciated that other wire types and/or configurations such as wedge wire, square wire and the like may also be used.
While the detailed description describes the mesh panel 12 as having a series of square mesh openings 18 which are of the identical size and spacing, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that in an alternate configuration, the panel 12 could be provided with one or more regions of mesh openings 18 which are larger or smaller in dimension.
Although the disclosure describes and illustrates various preferred embodiments, the invention is not so limited. Many modifications and variations will now occur to persons skilled in the art. For a definition of the invention, reference may be had to the appended claims.
In a most simplified construction, the reinforcing complex comprises at least one grouping of three or more #0 gauge steel reinforcing wires which extend longitudinally immediate-most to one longitudinal edge of the panel. The applicant has appreciated that in such a construction, the reinforcing complex may advantageously be overlapped with a non-reinforced longitudinal edge of a next adjacent panel. In alternate constructions, however, the reinforcing complex may include reinforcing wires provided down a lateral mid or end portions of the panel, and/or along both longitudinal and lateral edges.
Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention resides in a surface rock support system comprising, a mesh panel having generally parallel spaced first and second side edges and parallel spaced first and second ends, the panel being provided as an integral unit and including, a plurality of first mesh members, the first mesh members being provided in general parallel alignment with one of said first side edge and said first end, a plurality of second mesh members, the second mesh members being provided in general parallel alignment with each other and the other of said first side edge and said first end being coupled to said first mesh members, and at least one reinforcement complex comprising at least two elongated reinforcing members coupled to the first mesh members, the reinforcing members being generally equally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the reinforcing members are selected from the group consisting of #0 gauge metal wire, #1 gauge metal wire and #2 gauge metal wire.
In another aspect, the present invention resides a mine shaft rock wall support system comprising, a generally rectangular mesh panel having generally parallel longitudinally extending first and second side edges, and generally parallel laterally extending first and second ends, the panel further including, a plurality of longitudinally extending first mesh members, each first mesh members being laterally spaced from a next adjacent first mesh members, and a plurality of laterally extending second mesh members, each second mesh members being longitudinally spaced from next adjacent second mesh member and coupled to each of the immediately adjacent first mesh members, a reinforcement complex comprising at least four elongated reinforcing members, the reinforcing members being generally immediately adjacent and spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the reinforcing members are coupled to each of the immediately adjacent first mesh members, wherein the reinforcing members are selected from the group consisting of #0 gauge round metal wire, #1 gauge round metal wire and #2 gauge round metal wire.
In a further aspect the present invention resides in a mine wall rock support system comprising, an integral mesh panel having generally parallel longitudinally extending first and second side edges, and generally parallel laterally extending first and second ends, the panel further including, a plurality of longitudinally extending first mesh members coupled to said first mesh members, the first mesh members being laterally spaced from a next adjacent first mesh member, and a plurality of laterally extending second mesh members, the second mesh members being longitudinally spaced from next adjacent second mesh members and coupled to each immediately adjacent first mesh members, an edge reinforcement assembly adjacent said first side edge, the reinforcing assembly comprising at least three longitudinally extending reinforcement members, the longitudinally extending reinforcing members being generally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the longitudinally extending reinforcing members are coupled to each immediately adjacent first mesh members, an end reinforcement assembly adjacent said first end, the end reinforcing assembly comprising at least three laterally extending reinforcing members, the laterally extending reinforcing members being generally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the first mesh members, each of the laterally extending reinforcing members being coupled to immediately adjacent ones of said second mesh members and said longitudinally extending reinforcing members and comprising #0 gauge cylindrical steel wire.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference may now be had to the following detailed description, taken together with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective top view of a welded mesh panel for use in a mine roof rock support system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 shows an enlarged perspective end view of the panel shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows schematically the welded mesh panel of Figure 1 installed as part of a rock support system in the dynamic support of a rock complex;
Figure 4 illustrates a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 shows a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 illustrates a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7 shows a top view of a welded mesh panel in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention; and Figure 8 illustrates a top view of a pair of welded mesh panels installed in accordance with field application of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Reference may be had to Figure 1 which illustrates a welded mesh panel 12, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. As will be described, the panel 12 is adapted for mounting substantially in position within less than about 4 cm, and more preferably less than about 2.5 cm from the face 6 of a rock complex 8 as part of a mine roof rock support system 10 (Figure 3). The positioning of the mesh panel 12 in such a position substantially juxtaposed with the rock face 6 allows its use in the retention and compression of the rock complex 8 while providing enhanced rock support.
The mesh panel 12 is formed having an overall rectangular shape with parallel longitudinally extending sides 14a, 14b and parallel spaced ends 16a, 16b. In a most preferred construction, the panel has a finished weight selected at less than about 50 lbs and a longitudinal length selected at between about 2.4 to 3.35 metres, and a width of about 1.2 to 2 metres.
The mesh panel 12 is characterized by a series of equally sized square mesh openings 18 which have longitudinal and lateral lengths selected at between about 7 and 14 cm, and most preferably about 10 cm. The mesh openings 18 are defined by a number of laterally extending wire members 20, and either a number of longitudinally extending wire members 22 or a reinforcing complex 24 which preferably consists of four longitudinally oriented reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d. The lateral wire members 20, longitudinal wire members 22 and reinforcing rods 26 are welded to each other in a grid arrangement to provide the panel 12 with an integral unitary structure. Each of the lateral wire members 20 consists of a #4 to #12 gauge, and preferably #4 gauge cylindrical steel wires. The wire members 20 are equally spaced longitudinally approximately 10 cm from each other, and extend in a lateral direction from the first panel side 14a to the second longitudinal side 14b.
The longitudinally wire members 22 are most preferably formed from the same gauge cylindrical steel wire as the lateral wire members 20. Each of the longitudinal wire members are provided in a perpendicular orientation to that of lateral wire members 20, and extend from the first panel end 16a to the second panel end 16b. The longitudinally extending wire members 22 are provided in an equally parallel spaced arrangement, so as to be separated laterally from each other by a distance substantially equal to the longitudinal spacing of the lateral wire members 20.
Although not essential, for enhanced structural integrity, each longitudinal wire member 22 is preferably welded directly to the surface of lateral wire member 20 at the point of overlapping contact.
Figure 1 shows the reinforcing complex 24 as extending longitudinally the length of the panel 12, immediately adjacent to the side 14a. The reinforcing complex 24 extends the longitudinal length of the panel 12 and has a lateral width selected at between about 10 to 40 cm, depending upon the grid spacing of the panel 12. The reinforcing rods 26 are most preferably formed from #0 gauge round wire. The reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d have a length corresponding to that of the longitudinal wire members 22 and are arranged parallel thereto.
Most preferably, the reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d are laterally spaced from each other and from the next adjacent longitudinal wire 22a as to provide the mesh panel 12 with a generally square open mesh configuration. Although not essential, as shown best in Figure 2 in a most preferred construction, the reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d are also welded to the upper surface (the same side as wire member 22) of each intersecting lateral wire members 20 at each point of overlapping contact.
Although simpler in design and manufacturing, equally spaced reinforced longitudinal and laterally adjacent wire members 22,20 can be spaced at different distances from the remainder of the #4 to #12 gauge wires. An example of such spacing would be at the standard l 00mm x 100mm of laterally and longitudinal adjacent wires 20,22, with the #0 or #1 or #2 gauge reinforcing rods 26 spaced at an equal or a lesser interval i.e. 50mm, to further reinforce the panel sides 14 and/or ends 16.
As shown best in Figure 3, the positioning of the reinforcing complex 24 adjacent to the panel side 14a enables the simplified completion and installation of a rock support system 10 providing enhanced rock support and surface retention capacity when installed against the rock face 6 of the rock complex 8. The increased gauge thickness of the reinforcing rods 26 result in their being less likely to be cut by the bearing plate 50. In a simplified mode of installation, in a conventional manner a series of bore holes 30a, 30b are drilled to a desired depth in the rock complex 8. Following the formation of the bore holes 30a, 30b, an associated anchor tendon 32a, 32b is thereafter secured in each bore hole 30a, 30b by means of anchoring grout 34. The anchoring tendons 32 are secured in place such that their proximalmost end 36 projects outwardly beyond the rock face 6 a sufficient distance to serve as a mounting support for the mesh panel 12 of the present invention. Once the grout 34 sets, a tensioning nut 40 is run over the end portion 36 and tightened against the rock face 6. It is to be appreciated however, that where other tendon types are used, such as a cable bolt, forged head rebar, Swellex or Friction Set bolt or the like having either a formed or forged head, tensioning of the plate may not be possible.
Following the final placement of the anchor tendons 32 and the consolidation of rock forces thereby, a series of mesh panels 12', 12" are positioned over the tendon ends 36. In particular, the panel openings 18, allow the panels 12 to be slid over the tendons- 32 and into generally juxtaposed contact against the rock face 6. Each mesh panel 12 is positioned with the reinforcing complex 24 of a first mesh panel 12' in direct underlying juxtaposition with the non-reinforced longitudinal side 14b of a next adjacent mesh panel 12". Following mesh panel placement, a bearing plate 50, which typically consists of a 15 by 15 cm square steel plate, is slid over the tendon end 36. The bearing plate 50 is then coupled in place by threading a further nut 52 or other fastener onto the tendon 32 to complete the support system 10. It is to be appreciated that in this configuration, the reinforcing complex 24 of the panel 12' provides enhanced structural support not only to the panel 12', but also to the next adjacent mesh panel 12". In addition, the larger diameter of the #0 gauge reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d provide increased reinforcement to the support system 10, achieving enhanced surface retention as the mesh panels 12', 12" are secured in place. Because each mesh panel 12 is provided as a preformed integral unit, the panels 12 may be installed manually in a single operation, without the requirement of a subsequent installation procedure for reinforcing straps and the like, which is often required in rock burst conditions.
While the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1 describes a simplified mesh panel 12 having a single reinforcing complex 24 along one longitudinal panel side 14a only, the invention is not so limited. Reference may be had to Figures 4 to 8 which illustrate alternate mesh panel constructions, in which like numerals are used to identify like components.
Reference may be had to Figure 4 which illustrates an integrated welded mesh panel 12 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. In Figure 4, the mesh panel 12 is characterized by a reinforcing complex 124 which extends about the entire periphery of the welded mesh panel 12. In this regard, the reinforcing complex 24 is characterized by two spaced groupings of longitudinally extending reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c and 26a', 26b', 26c' which are spaced respectively, immediately adjacent to each of the longitudinal panel sides 14a, 14b.
In addition, the reinforcing complex 124 includes two spaced groupings of laterally extending reinforcing rods 126a, 126b, 126c and 126a', 126b', 126c', adjacent respectively to each panel ends 16a, 16b. Each of the reinforcing rods 26,126 consists of a #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel round wire. The laterally extending reinforcing rods 126a, 126b, 126c and 126a', 126b', 126c' extend normal to, and are welded to each respective overlapping reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c and 26a', 26b', 26c'.
At equally spaced positions between the innermost longitudinal reinforcing rods 26c, 26c', the panel 12 is provided with a series of parallel and equally spaced #9 gauge or larger diameter steel lateral wire members 22. The longitudinal wire members 22 extend parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction from the panel end 16a to end 16b.
Similarly, a series of laterally extending #12 gauge or larger diameter wire members 20 are provided laterally across the panel 12, between the innermost lateral reinforcing rods 126c, 126c'. The lateral wire members 20 extend parallel from each other from side 14a to side 14b, the wires 20, 22 are welded to each other as well as the reinforcing rods 26, 126 at each point of overlapping contact.
It is to be appreciated that the peripheral extent of the reinforcing complex 24 allows the use of smaller gauge wires 20, 22, thus decreasing the overall panel weight.
Figure 5 illustrates a welded mesh panel 12 in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention. In Figure 5, the panel 12 is provided with reinforcing complex 224 which extends laterally across a mid-section of the panel 12. The reinforcing complex 224 consists of four laterally extending and parallel spaced #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d. Each of the steel reinforcing rods 26 extend from the first longitudinal panel side 14a to the second side 14b in an orientation generally parallel to each other, and to the laterally extending wire members 20. As with the welded mesh panel 12 of Figure 1, each of the reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d and lateral wire members 20 are welded to overlapping positions of each longitudinally extending wire member 22, to form a single unitary panel.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate welded mesh panels 12 in accordance with further embodiments of the invention, wherein like reference numerals are used to identify like components. Figure 6 is characterized by a reinforcing complex 324 which extends along both the first longitudinal panel side 14a, as well as the second lateral panel end 16b. The portion of reinforcing complex 324 which is adjacent to the panel side 14a consists of four parallel and equally spaced, longitudinal extending #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel reinforcing rods 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d. The portion of the complex 324 along the panel end 16b includes four #0, #1, or #2 gauge steel reinforcing rods 126a',126b',126c', and 126d' which extend laterally from the panel side 14a to the panel side 14b. The mesh panel 12 of Figure 6 advantageously allows the reinforcing complex 324 to be positioned under both a respective unreinforced longitudinal side and unreinforced end of a next adjacent panel 12. This configuration allows for the complete overlap between reinforced and unreinforced portions of adjacent panels 12 in the installation of the rock support system 10.
The panel 12 shown in Figure 7 is provided with substantially identical reinforcing complex 324 shown in Figure 6, with the exception that further edge reinforcing rods 226a',326a are welded in place along the remaining panel side 14b and end 16a to provide reinforcement along the entire periphery of the mesh panel 12.
Figure 8 illustrates one actual field application of the mesh panels 12a,12b as shown in Figure 1. Yielding tendons 32 such as conebolts are installed in the longitudinal direction at the reinforcing complex 26. Two panels 12,12b are overlapped with the mesh panel 12a positioned with the reinforcing complex 24a of a first mesh panel 12a underlying the non-reinforced longitudinal side 14b' of a next adjacent mesh panel 12b. Conventional tendons 32 such as rebars are installed over the mesh panel in the centre portion. To increase the area coverage of selected bearing plates 50, a mesh reinforcing plate 150 made of #0 gauge steel wire is furthermore provided.
Although the detailed description describes the reinforcing rods 26 and longitudinally wire members 22 as being welded to a top surface of each of the lateral wire members 20, the invention is not so limited. In an alternate configuration, the reinforcing rods 26 and/or longitudinal wires 22 could be provided on a lower surface of the wire members 20 alternately, in an arrangement staggered, alternating on top and bottom surfaces of the lateral wires 20.
While the preferred embodiment of the invention describes the reinforcing rods 26 as comprising #0 gauge metal wire, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that the reinforcing complex 24 could include smaller gauge wires, including wires of #1 and/or #2 gauge, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Although the detailed description describes the lateral wire members 20 and longitudinal wire members 22 as being of substantially the same gauge thickness, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that in alternate possible configuration, the wire members 20 could be made either with a larger or smaller wire gauge thickness than the longitudinally extending wire members 22. Similarly, while the use of round or cylindrical steel wire permits a simplified construction, it is to be appreciated that other wire types and/or configurations such as wedge wire, square wire and the like may also be used.
While the detailed description describes the mesh panel 12 as having a series of square mesh openings 18 which are of the identical size and spacing, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that in an alternate configuration, the panel 12 could be provided with one or more regions of mesh openings 18 which are larger or smaller in dimension.
Although the disclosure describes and illustrates various preferred embodiments, the invention is not so limited. Many modifications and variations will now occur to persons skilled in the art. For a definition of the invention, reference may be had to the appended claims.
Claims (28)
1. A surface rock support system comprising, a mesh panel having generally parallel spaced first and second side edges and parallel spaced first and second ends, the panel being provided as an integral unit and including, a plurality of first mesh members, the first mesh members being provided in general parallel alignment with one of said first side edge and said first end, a plurality of second mesh members, the second mesh members being provided in general parallel alignment with each other and the other of said first side edge and said first end being coupled to said first mesh members, and at least one reinforcement complex comprising at least two elongated reinforcing members coupled to the first mesh members, the reinforcing members being generally equally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the reinforcing members are selected from the group consisting of #0 gauge metal wire, #1 gauge metal wire and #2 gauge metal wire.
2. The support system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first mesh members are oriented in a position generally parallel to said first end, and the reinforcement complex is disposed immediately adjacent said first side edge of said panel.
3. The support system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first mesh members are oriented in a position generally parallel to said first side edge and the reinforcing complex is disposed at a location selected from a position immediately adjacent to said first end, and a position at about a lateral mid-portion of said panel.
4. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the mesh panel comprises a substantially uniform square mesh panel with each said second mesh members and said reinforcing members being spaced a substantially equal distance apart.
5. The support system is claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein each of the reinforcing members comprise #0 gauge steel wire.
6. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein each of the second mesh members and the reinforcing members are welded in direct overlying juxtaposition with said first mesh members.
7. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the second mesh members extend in an orientation generally normal to an orientation of the first mesh members.
8. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein each of the second mesh members and the reinforcing members are welded directly to immediately adjacent ones of the first mesh members as an integrated mesh panel.
9. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the mesh panel has a longitudinal length selected at between about 2 and 4 metres and a lateral width selected at between about 1 and 3 metres.
10. The support system claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein each of the first mesh members are spaced substantially an equal lateral distance from a next adjacent first mesh member.
11. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein each of the second mesh members are spaced substantially an equal longitudinal distance from a next adjacent second mesh member, and which is equal to the lateral distance.
12. The support system as claimed in claim 11 wherein the lateral and longitudinal distances are generally equal and are selected at between about 7.5 and 15 cm, preferably about 10 cm.
13. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein each of said first and second mesh members are selected from the group consisting of #4 gauge metal wire, #5 gauge metal wire, #6 gauge metal wire, #7 gauge metal wire, #8 gauge metal wire and #9 gauge metal wire.
14. A mine shaft rock wall support system comprising, a generally rectangular mesh panel having generally parallel longitudinally extending first and second side edges, and generally parallel laterally extending first and second ends, the panel further including, a plurality of longitudinally extending first mesh members, each first mesh members being laterally spaced from a next adjacent first mesh members, and a plurality of laterally extending second mesh members, each second mesh members being longitudinally spaced from next adjacent second mesh member and coupled to each of the immediately adjacent first mesh members, a reinforcement complex comprising at least four elongated reinforcing members, the reinforcing members being generally immediately adjacent and spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the reinforcing members are coupled to each of the immediately adjacent first mesh members, wherein the reinforcing members are selected from the group consisting of #0 gauge round metal wire, #1 gauge round metal wire and #2 gauge round metal wire.
15. The support system as claimed in claim 14 wherein the reinforcement complex is disposed immediately adjacent to said first side edge of said panel.
16. The support system as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the mesh panel comprises a substantially uniform square mesh panel with each first mesh members, said second mesh members and said reinforcing members being spaced a substantially equal distance apart.
17. The support system is claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein each of the reinforcing members comprise #0 gauge steel wire.
18. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 17 wherein each of the second mesh members and the reinforcing members are welded in direct overlying juxtaposition with said first mesh members.
19. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 18 wherein the second mesh members extend in an orientation generally normal to an orientation of the first mesh members.
20. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 19 wherein each of the second mesh members and the reinforcing members are welded directly to immediately adjacent ones of the first mesh members as an integrated mesh panel.
21. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 20 wherein the mesh panel has a longitudinal length select at between about 1.5 and 3 metres and a lateral width selected at between about 2 and 3 metres, each of the first mesh members being equally spaced a lateral distance of between about 7 and 12 cm from a next adjacent first mesh members.
22. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 21 wherein said first and second mesh members are selected from the group consisting of #4 gauge steel wire, #5 gauge steel wire, #6 gauge steel wire, #7 gauge steel wire, #8 gauge steel wire, #9 gauge steel wire, #10 gauge steel wire, #11 gauge steel wire and #12 gauge steel wire.
23. A mine wall rock support system comprising, an integral mesh panel having generally parallel longitudinally extending first and second side edges, and generally parallel laterally extending first and second ends, the panel further including, a plurality of longitudinally extending first mesh members coupled to said first mesh members, the first mesh members being laterally spaced from a next adjacent first mesh member, and a plurality of laterally extending second mesh members, the second mesh members being longitudinally spaced from next adjacent second mesh members and coupled to each immediately adjacent first mesh members, an edge reinforcement assembly adjacent said first side edge, the reinforcing assembly comprising at least three longitudinally extending reinforcement members, the longitudinally extending reinforcing members being generally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the second mesh members, and wherein each of the longitudinally extending reinforcing members are coupled to each immediately adjacent first mesh members, an end reinforcement assembly adjacent said first end, the end reinforcing assembly comprising at least three laterally extending reinforcing members, the laterally extending reinforcing members being generally spaced from each other and oriented in a generally parallel alignment with the first mesh members, each of the laterally extending reinforcing members being coupled to immediately adjacent ones of said second mesh members and said longitudinally extending reinforcing members and comprising #0 gauge cylindrical steel wire.
24. The support system as claimed in claim 23 wherein said first and second mesh members are selected from the group consisting of #4 gauge steel wire, #5 gauge steel wire and #6 gauge steel wire.
25. The support system as claimed in claim 23 or claim 24 wherein the mesh panel has a longitudinal length select at between about 1.5 and 2.5 metres and a lateral width selected at between about 2 and 3 metres, each of the first mesh members being equally spaced a lateral distance of between about 7 and 12 cm from a next adjacent first mesh members.
26. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 25 further including at least one reinforcing plate for bearing contact with said panel.
27. The support system as claimed in claim 26 wherein the at least one reinforcing plate includes a mesh reinforcing plate secured to said first mesh members at a location remote from said reinforcing members.
28. The support system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27 wherein the mesh panel has an overall length and width selected to maintain a panel weight of less than about 50 lbs.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2678136A CA2678136C (en) | 2009-09-08 | 2009-09-08 | Welded mesh rock support system for bursting and squeezing ground |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2678136A CA2678136C (en) | 2009-09-08 | 2009-09-08 | Welded mesh rock support system for bursting and squeezing ground |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2678136A1 true CA2678136A1 (en) | 2011-03-08 |
| CA2678136C CA2678136C (en) | 2017-05-09 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2678136A Active CA2678136C (en) | 2009-09-08 | 2009-09-08 | Welded mesh rock support system for bursting and squeezing ground |
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| Country | Link |
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| CA (1) | CA2678136C (en) |
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN105863668A (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2016-08-17 | 中煤科工集团武汉设计研究院有限公司 | Mine tunnel heaving prevention support method |
| WO2016181281A1 (en) * | 2015-05-08 | 2016-11-17 | Nicaud Companies 22 (Pty) Ltd | A safety net |
| WO2017098082A1 (en) * | 2015-12-07 | 2017-06-15 | Tammet Oy | Mesh for mining and subterranean constructions |
| US20180291736A1 (en) * | 2016-07-08 | 2018-10-11 | Shandong University | High-strength confined concrete support system for underground tunnel |
| CN111946363A (en) * | 2020-09-17 | 2020-11-17 | 西南交通大学 | Tunnel active supporting structure and construction method |
| WO2022140826A1 (en) * | 2020-12-28 | 2022-07-07 | Belgo Bekaert Arames Ltda | Assembly of welded wire mesh panel and frame |
-
2009
- 2009-09-08 CA CA2678136A patent/CA2678136C/en active Active
Cited By (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2016181281A1 (en) * | 2015-05-08 | 2016-11-17 | Nicaud Companies 22 (Pty) Ltd | A safety net |
| WO2017098082A1 (en) * | 2015-12-07 | 2017-06-15 | Tammet Oy | Mesh for mining and subterranean constructions |
| CN105863668A (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2016-08-17 | 中煤科工集团武汉设计研究院有限公司 | Mine tunnel heaving prevention support method |
| US20180291736A1 (en) * | 2016-07-08 | 2018-10-11 | Shandong University | High-strength confined concrete support system for underground tunnel |
| US10415387B2 (en) * | 2016-07-08 | 2019-09-17 | Shandong University | High-strength confined concrete support system for underground tunnel |
| CN111946363A (en) * | 2020-09-17 | 2020-11-17 | 西南交通大学 | Tunnel active supporting structure and construction method |
| WO2022140826A1 (en) * | 2020-12-28 | 2022-07-07 | Belgo Bekaert Arames Ltda | Assembly of welded wire mesh panel and frame |
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| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2678136C (en) | 2017-05-09 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20140829 |