Instrumented Rock Bolt

Assess bolt response as ground conditions change in underground mines and tunnels. The Instrumented Rock Bolt uses nine pairs of opposing resistance strain gauges to record strain along the bolt, supporting interpretation of axial loading and bending. A portable logger collects readings for transfer to a computer, where SCT analysis software supports load-profile review and assessment of pre- and post-yield behaviour. Installation can use normal mine bolting equipment and consumables, subject to site confirmation. The configuration described in the supply proposal is for monitoring, not use as a mine support element.

• Track strain and derived load at multiple positions to understand how bolt response changes during installation and mining.
• Separate axial loading from bending effects using diametrically opposed strain-gauge pairs.
• Review load and bending profiles with analysis software, including pre- and post-yield behaviour.
• Fit monitoring into the normal installation cycle using site bolting equipment and consumables, subject to compatibility confirmation.
• Collect a complete set of strain readings with a portable logger, then transfer the data to a computer for analysis.