Rock Reinforcement in Tunnel Construction
Power Mining carries out tunnelling works comprehensively, with our own equipment and workforce. Rock reinforcement using various techniques is one of the services we offer.
The safety and durability of a tunnel depend on the rock remaining stable after excavation. Proper rock reinforcement ensures structural safety, extends service life, and prevents rock falls or the collapse of rock cavities. We use industry-leading methods to ensure the safety and quality of every project in accordance with the plans.
In infrastructure projects, we carry out all reinforcement work: rock bolting, shotcreting with an RC robot, and mesh installation. In confined spaces, we also handle work stages manually — including drilling, shotcreting, and mesh installation.
In mining projects, we perform cable bolting, mesh installation, and all types of rock bolting with our own equipment.
Rock Bolting
Rock bolting is one of the most common reinforcement methods. In bolting, holes are drilled into the rock, and ribbed steel or anchor bolts are grouted into them with cement to bind the rock into a strong, unified mass after excavation. The bolts prevent rock from detaching and improve the durability of the structure. Bolting is often combined with other reinforcement solutions, such as shotcreting.
Shotcreting
Shotcreting is an effective way to strengthen and protect tunnel walls and roofs. A layer of concrete sprayed onto the rock surface with compressed air prevents weathering.
Applications:
- Shotcreting of tunnels.
- Safety shotcreting of benches and walls.
- Reinforcing levelling render for uneven surfaces.
Mesh Reinforcement
Safety can also be improved with mesh reinforcement, which prevents rocks and boulders from falling from tunnel walls and roofs. The steel mesh is fastened to the rock with bolts, and the surface can also be shotcreted.
Applications:
- Open cuts along roadsides (to prevent rocks from falling onto the carriageway).
- Slowing tunnel deformation in mining sites.
Safety
Rock reinforcement improves the safety of tunnels and rock structures by preventing rock detachment and collapses, which protects both workers and the users of the structures. Reinforcement enables a durable and long-lasting structure.
Mining
At infrastructure and mining sites, we work in tunnels ranging from large tunnel profiles to small widening/roof-raising projects, as well as production mining. Shaft sinking based on the longhole or Alimak method.
We have solid expertise and equipment for tunnel excavation. We have several years of experience in using electronic detonators on a daily basis in vibration-sensitive areas.
Our personnel have a long pedigree in shaft excavation for mining and infrastructure projects. We take an innovative approach to digging shafts in challenging locations.
Includes hydraulic splitting on difficult sites.
Rock reinforcement
Infrastructure projects: full range of rock reinforcement and shotcreting, using a shotcrete robot, rockbolting, wire-mesh reinforcement. We also do manual drilling, wire-mesh reinforcement, and shotcreting on small sites.
Mining sites with our own machinery: cable bolting, wire-mesh reinforcement and all types of rockbolting.
Scaling
In infrastructure and mining projects, we handle scaling both mechanically and manually.
The method is chosen based on the requirements of each site: final surfaces and areas to be reinforced typically require manual scaling to achieve the best result.
A safe working environment is ensured by thoroughly removing loose rocks and boulders before proceeding to the next stages.Mucking
In tunnel construction, we handle mucking using excavators or wheel loaders, collecting and transporting the blasted rock for further haulage.
Efficient mucking keeps the project on schedule, as it is typically the most time-consuming phase of the excavation cycle. The service is delivered as part of our full-service offering, integrating all stages of tunnel construction into one seamless package.
Grouting
Rock grouting is an essential part of safe and sustainable tunnel construction. It is used to reduce the permeability of the rock and improve its sealing properties. The goal is to prevent water migration within the rock mass, which extends the service life of the structure.
