Slope Failure Analysis of Open-Pit Coal Mining Using Slope Stability Radar (SSR)
Mulyadi A. Sannang (1, 2), Hendra Pachri (2), Ilham Alimuddin (2)

1. Geotechnical Support Services, PT. GroundProbe Indonesia
2. Departement of Geological Engineering, Hasanuddin University

Abstract

Slope stability is a critical concern in open-pit safety and mine operations, where unforeseen failures can have significant consequences. This necessitates a deeper understanding of specific slope behavior and failure mechanisms to guide geotechnical professionals in taking preventive measures. This study investigates 15 slope failure events recorded using four different Slope Stability Radar (SSR) units in a coal mine located in Tanah Bumbu, South Kalimantan. The primary objectives of the study are to enhance failure prediction accuracy using the inverse velocity method and to define optimal alarm parameters for SSR, ensuring timely warnings before slope failures occur. The results statistically demonstrate different variables of slope behavior, velocity, and inverse velocity at failure time. By analyzing these variables, the study aims to improve geotechnical risk management strategies and provide a better understanding of slope failure mechanisms.

Keywords: Slope failure, open-pit, coal mining, slope behavior, velocity, inverse velocity, alarm thresholds, radar monitoring

Topic: Hydrology, hydrogeology, and geology engineering