Tailings and Mine Waste Conference

Comparison of Methods in Estimating the Released Volume in a Tailings Dam Break Analysis Huamanyauri, Jeymy; Huanchi, Jhoel; Hinostroza, Jose; Huamán, Miguel

Abstract

An important variable in a tailings dam break analysis (TDBA) is the released volume, which can underestimate or overestimate the impacts to people or the environment. In general, the volume released is directly related to the width of the dam. The impact footprint is related to the peak discharge flow and the arrival time of the tailings. Two types of methods can be used to estimate the volume released: statistical and geometric methods. Statistical methods are based on the historical records of the volume stored in the tailings deposits and later released; while geometric methods are conditioned by the angle of final disposal after the dam break. This paper presents the analysis of the volumes of released tailings, as estimated from the two previously indicated methods, in order to understand and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these methods in the TDBA.

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Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International