Performance analysis of the application of multidirectional rigid geogrids for haul road truck access

¹ Anglo American, Hydraulic Department, Minas Gerais, Brazil
² Anglo American, Geotechnical Department, Minas Gerais, Brazil
³ TDM Brasil, Technical Department, São Paulo, Brazil

^* Corresponding author: wcaressato@tdmbrasil.com.br

Abstract

Located in the southeast region of Brazil, Mina Serra do Sapo has well-defined seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The condition of constant and voluminous rain, associated with the Minas Gerais environment, where we have haul road truck traffic of up to 340 tons and the low supply of resistant materials for the formation of the pavement, represents a great challenge to maintain production, minimizing losses, both related to feeding the crushing process and equipment maintenance. In this context, critical sections of the mine were selected, where haul road trucks are loaded, to stabilize the base using rigid multidirectional geogrids, interspersed with layers of landfill without compaction control, using materials available in the field. For measurement purposes, sensors were installed on Komatsu 830E 1AC trucks, capable of measuring two parameters, Chassis torque and Spring weight. What was found was an abrupt positive response from the sensors in regions formed by rigid multidirectional geogrids, compared to other regions where no type of pavement treatment was applied.