WYKORZYSTANIE MODELOWANIA DO ROZBUDOWY SYSTEMU ODWODNIENIA W ODKRYWKOWEJ KOPALNI WĘGLA BRUNATNEGO

Abstract

NUMERICAL MODELLING FOR DEWATERING SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT IN A LIGNITE OPEN PIT MINE

The paper presents the example of numerical modelling of groundwater flow, performed for the design assistance of waste soil dump from the Turów lignite open pit mine. The main purpose of the modelling was to predict water logging of the waste soil dump and its surroundings. Construction of a numerical model of groundwater flow for the currently recognized hydrogeological conditions in the waste soil dump area, and its verification as of July 2006, was performed. Using the verified model of groundwater flow, a prognostic model was developed for the year of 2015, since mining operations are intended to be extended into the northern part. The calculations were performed with the use of FEMWATER/GMS numerical program. The groundwater flow was analysed as a steady state through time, with an assumption of ideal protection of the waste soil dump against precipitation. The results of modelling indicate that the waste soil dump will be logged. Modelling test results of the groundwater flow will be applied for designing a dewatering system extension and a monitoring system of potential threat of slope stability of the waste soil dump constructed close to the protected objects. The main objects which need special protection during waste soil dump construction and dewatering are as follows: the Nysa Łużycka river bank, international road Trzciniec–Sieniawka and industrial infrastructure around the Turów lignite open mine. The modelling results will also be applied in designing adequate technical safety solutions to protect these objects.