Realistic dynamic stope support testing

Abstract

The development project GAP 611 comprised essentially four phases: design, construction, proof testing and a brief programmed of testing of actual supports. The project was driven by the perception that existing support testing equipment could provide only a quality control function. To stimulate development of innovative types of support and support accessories that would overcome some of the limitations of existing systems, required the development and construction of a completely different type of facility. The two most important differences compared with conventional testing procedures would be the provision of a discontinuous roof surface which would be subjected to dynamic loading.