The Process of Securing Wires in Underground Mines: How Cablebolting Enhances Safety and Stability

Cablebolting is a vital engineering method used to stabilize walls, ceilings, and other structures in underground mines. This technique involves inserting long steel cables into drilled holes in the rock, then grouting them with materials like cement or resin to reinforce weak zones and prevent rock falls.

Image: Cablebolting in Underground Mines – A critical safety method in modern mining.

What Are Cablebolts?

Cablebolts are twisted steel wires grouped together to form strong, flexible reinforcement elements. These cables are inserted into pre-drilled holes and bonded to the rock using cement-based grouts—often enhanced with additives to improve swelling or strength. In larger holes, multiple cables can be installed for greater support.

Face plates, mesh, or straps are often used on the exposed ends of cables to distribute load and prevent surface rock detachment. Cablebolts can also work in combination with other reinforcement systems such as:

• Shotcrete

• Rock bolts

• Grouted rebar

• Mesh screening

Why Cablebolts Matter for Safety

In underground mining, loose blocks and fractured rock can pose serious safety hazards. Cablebolting reinforces weak rock masses and prevents failures in large openings like declines, ore passes, or chambered areas. Its long reach and high load capacity make it ideal where traditional rock bolts aren’t enough.

The pressure applied by cablebolts holds rock masses together, reducing the risk of collapse and maintaining structural integrity. This reinforcement:

• Prevents rock separation along weak planes.

• Anchors deep into the rock mass.

• Supports the surface of excavation.

• Reduces maintenance caused by falling rock.

Economic Impact: Controlling Dilution

Rock dilution—mixing waste rock with ore—can increase costs and lower mine efficiency. Cablebolts help reduce unplanned dilution by:

• Preventing wall collapses

• Supporting ore zone boundaries

• Improving pit or drift design

Studies (Bawden, 1993; Elbrond, 1994; Pakalnis et al., 1995) confirm that cable support systems minimize dilution and extend the life of underground operations.

Sources:

• Canadian Mining Journal

• “Rock Support in Mining” – Stillborg (1986)

• Elbrond (1994), Pakalnis et al. (1995), Bawden (1993)