Because of the complicated geological and mining conditions, as well as the scope and variety of tasks, the construction of the R-XI shaft was one of the most difficult engineering projects. Sinking the shaft, PeBeKa implemented the selective freezing of rock mass, alternately, through long holes down to the level of 635 m and short holes down to the level of 395 m.
At selected sections, the contractor used special panels made of highly resistant reinforced concrete. They were mounted by means of a specially designed and manufactured hydraulic elevator constituting an integral part of the shaft sinking machine.
The sinking of the R-XI shaft
Investor: KGHM Polska Miedź S.A.
Time of project execution: 1999-2005
Additional technical data:
- Internal diameter of the shaft: 7.5 m
- Depth of the shaft: 1250 m
- Freezing depth: 635 m
- Used technology: Shaft sinking with the application of rock mass freezing; the shaft's structure: segment concrete and tubbing supports
Location
Poland, dolnośląskie Province,
Polkowice, Dąbrowskiego Street 50
Project outline
Because of the complicated geological and mining conditions in the “Rudna” copper ore mine, as well as the scope and variety of tasks, the construction of the R-XI shaft was one of the most difficult engineering projects implemented by PeBeKa. The safe and cost-effective execution of the task required the application of the latest scientific and technical achievements as well as experience acquired by the company during the earlier shaft sinking projects.
The expensive cascade drainage system was replaced by the gravitational drainage system through a centrally bored hole connecting the shaft bottom with the bottom of the pit. An important achievement was the development of a special blasting technology comprising contour blasting, special cuts, and reduced volumes of webs.
The R-XI shaft was the 29th shaft sunk by PeBeKa S.A. in the Legnica-Głogów Copper Belt and the deepest facility of this type.
Greatest challenges
Performing works in the geologically diversified area.
Key moment
Mounting the reinforced concrete panels.
