Further comments on rock stabilization methods 283Figure 16.14 Underground excavation stabilized by (a) rock bolts and @) rock bolts
and shotcrete.This form of rock stabilization, where the rock mass 'supports itself', is now
generally accepted by all aspects of the industry. When one is
underground, however, it is an act of intellectual faith to believe that the
rock is, in fact, being stabilized by the rock bolt technique-because there
is little visual evidence of any engineering work. It is a good idea to explain
the principles to all personnel in order to improve confidence and instill
the necessary discipline to ensure correct installation.
In recent years, reinforcement by the installation of long lengths of steel
wire rope-cable bolting-has been introduced, thus enabling the reinforce-
ment to be of the same dimension as the structure. For example, installing
cable anchors of sufficient length in a mine stope hanging wall prevents
smaller blocks, reinforced by the shorter rock bolts, from becoming