South Gobi Underground Mass Mining InstituteNumerical Modelling Fundamentals for Underground Mining
SGUMMI COURSECourse Summary
This course introduces the fundamental principles, tools, and best practices of numerical modelling in mining, with a particular emphasis on underground mining applications. It covers the theoretical underpinnings of rock mechanics, modelling methodologies, software selection, model setup, calibration, and result interpretation. Participants will gain hands-on experience in simulating stress conditions and failure mechanisms to support geomechanical decision-making in complex mining environments.
COURSE OVERVIEWCourse Objectives
01
Understand the role of numerical modelling in underground mining and the limitations of conventional methods.
02
Learn the basic rock mechanics principles underpinning model design and calibration.
03
Develop skills in selecting appropriate numerical approaches (FEM, FDM, DEM) for different mining scenarios.
04
Gain familiarity with leading commercial software packages such as FLAC3D, RS3, Abaqus, 3DEC, and MassFlow.
05
Apply advanced modelling techniques including dynamic analysis, DFN, BBM, and SRM approaches.
06
Set up a numerical model using correct geometry, material properties, meshing strategies, and boundary conditions.
07
Learn how to calibrate and validate models using field and laboratory data.
TARGET AUDIENCEThis course is ideal for
Early to mid-career geotechnical or geological engineers in underground mining
Mine planning and mine design professionals seeking stronger technical skills
Technical teams supporting mining operations
Professionals working with geo data, geo models and their application into mine design
OUTCOMESKey Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the role of numerical modelling in underground mining and the limitations of conventional methods.
- Learn the basic rock mechanics principles underpinning model design and calibration.
- Develop skills in selecting appropriate numerical approaches (FEM, FDM, DEM) for different mining scenarios.
- Gain familiarity with leading commercial software packages such as FLAC3D, RS3, Abaqus, 3DEC, and MassFlow.
- Understand the fundamentals of advanced modelling techniques, including dynamic analysis, DFN, BBM, and SRM approaches.
- Set up a numerical model using correct geometry, material properties, meshing strategies, and boundary conditions.
- Learn how to calibrate and validate models.
COURSECourse Topics Covered
01
Introduction to Numerical Modelling in Mining
02
Basic Rock Mechanics Concepts
03
Geotechnical Input Parameters
04
Stress Analysis in Underground Excavations
05
Overview of Numerical Modelling Methods
06
Introduction to Software Tools
07
Advanced Modelling Techniques
08
Model Setup and Input Parameters
09
Model Calibration and Validation
10
Interpretation and Case Studies
FORMATDelivery Format
Duration:
5 days
Location:
Oyu Tolgoi Mine or Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Format:
In-person, expert-led instruction
Structure:
Approximately 60% theoretical content (including case studies), 40% hands-on practical activities
Language:
English
COURSE INSTRUCTORPatrick Andrieux
Patrick Andrieux is a mining engineer with over forty years of experience at operating mine sites (both on surface and underground), as well as in research and development, instrumentation, technical services and support, and consulting.
Patrick is currently Principal Engineer at A2GC, a Montreal-based Canadian consulting firm established in 2015, which offers technical services in the fields of geomechanics, ground control, mine design, numerical modelling, seismicity and drilling and blasting to local and international mining, construction and civil engineering clients.
Since 2019 he is Adjunct Professor at Laval University in Quebec City in the Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering.
Patrick is a Registered Professional Engineer in the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Ontario and in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, as well as a Designated Consulting Engineer in the province of Ontario.
Amélie Ouellet
Amélie is a geological engineer at A2GC with more than twelve years of consulting experience. Her fields of interest are geomechanics in support of underground mine design and advanced numerical modelling. She has been lecturer at the Ecole Polytechnique of Montreal for the rock mechanics course for mining engineering students.
COURSE FAQFrequently Asked Questions
01/
Who should attend this course?
The course is designed for early to mid-career geotechnical and geological engineers, mine planning and design professionals, and technical teams supporting underground mining. It also suits professionals who work with geodata, geotechnical models, and their application in mine design.
02/
What practical skills will I gain?
You will develop a solid understanding of numerical modelling principles, learn how to set up and calibrate models, and gain familiarity with software tools such as FLAC3D, RS3, Abaqus, 3DEC, and MassFlow. Practical exercises cover stress analysis, model input preparation, calibration with field and lab data, and result interpretation for geomechanical decision-making.
03/
How is the course delivered?
This is a five-day, in-person program delivered at the Oyu Tolgoi mine or in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. It combines approximately 60% theoretical content, including case studies, with 40% hands-on practical activities led by expert instructors.
04/
Do I need prior experience with modelling software?
No specialist software experience is required. A basic understanding of rock mechanics and geotechnical principles is recommended, but all numerical methods and software tools are introduced and reinforced through guided exercises.
TESTIMONIALSWhat Our Industry Partners Are Saying
I’ve always been passionate about mining, and SGUMMI offers a unique opportunity to learn directly in the field. The program uses the Oyu Tolgoi mine itself as a training hub, which makes the learning incredibly practical and hands-on. It’s an ideal environment to build real-world skills.
Zaya Baitag
I truly enjoyed the SGUMMI course, which provided valuable insights into geotechnical principles and caving knowledge. The lessons were very practical and went beyond the math to explore the reason behind the concept. We are gaining experience-based knowledge from world-leading experts and professors. I’m very much looking forward to the remaining part of the course.
Batpurev Ganbat
The SGUMMI training is helping me gain a more systematic understanding of underground mass mining. It bridges the gap between theoretical learning and practical applications, and I’m already applying what I learn directly to my daily work. This is supporting my development toward the next step in my career.
Bayar-Erdene Ganbold
SGUMMI has been an amazing chance to learn from top mining experts. The sessions are well-connected and practical, helping me understand cave mining and geomechanics better. Now I feel more confident to grow professionally in this field.
Suvdaa Erdenebayar
This training plays a vital role in strengthening the education sector at a time when near-surface resources are being depleted and the demand for deep mining is increasing. As a young university lecturer, it is a valuable opportunity for me to share with mining company engineers and students what I’ve learned from professors. I am especially grateful for the chance to learn not only from internationally renowned professors but also from world-class practitioners in the mining industry.
Orkhon Erdenebaatar
Course Delivery Months
Planned Delivery:
June 2026
Exact dates will be confirmed closer to delivery.