Mining personnel install a rock bolt that helps stabilize the rock formation in the WIPP underground facility. Courtesy/WIPP
WIPP News:
Personnel at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) are completing preparations to resume rock bolting activities maintaining the WIPP underground facility in a safe and stable condition as the recovery process continues.
At WIPP, rock bolts are typically installed in a pattern that optimizes the bolt’s effectiveness to ensure stability of disposal rooms and access tunnels. Mechanics must first perform preventative maintenance on the mine equipment, like checking fluid levels and safety systems, cleaning, and lubricating, before bolting activities can resume.
Miners then drill holes into the rock salt formation (see image below) and install bolts of varying lengths. Since 2010, more than 20,000 rock bolts have been installed to make the WIPP underground facility safe for waste disposal activities.
Periodic Maintenance is required to replace broken bolts to maintain mine stability.
Replay of the Sept. 4 WIPP Town Hall meeting, sponsored by the City of Carlsbad and DOE, is available at http://new.livestream.com/rrv/.
The next Town Hall meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18 at the Carlsbad City Hall.