Learning

Software Tutorials

FLAC3D Quick Start Tutorial

This tutorial steps through the actions necessary to quickly create and solve a FLAC3D model. The focus of this tutorial is to provide you with a basic familiarity with the user interface and recommended work flow.

Using Python in FLAC3D 6

The Python programming language is embedded inside FLAC3D 6 and extended to allow FLAC3D models to be manipulated from Python programs. This webinar recording provides a brief introduction to Python scripting and includes many examples of using Python with FLAC3D.

Python and Pore Pressure Initialization

In this tutorial we will demonstrate how to map a random point cloud with pore pressure values onto the grid points of a FLAC3D model using python.

Technical Papers

FLAC3D mesh and zone quality

Mesh quality is crucial for the stability, accuracy, and fast convergence of numerical simulations. However, given the geometrical complexity of some models and the tools available for mesh creation, it is often necessary to accept meshes that deviate significantly from the known ideal shape.

Elastic Properties of Fractured Rock Masses With Frictional Properties and Power Law Fracture Size Distributions

We derive the relationships that link the general elastic properties of rock masses to the geometrical properties of fracture networks, with a special emphasis to the case of frictional crack surfaces.

We extend the well-known elastic solutions for free-slipping cracks to fractures whose plane resistance is defined by an elastic fracture (shear) stiffness ks and a stick-slip Coulomb threshold.

Mine Dewatering in a Compartmentalized Hydrogeologic Setting at Sishen Mine in South Africa

Sishen mine in South Africa is one of the largest open-pit iron mines in the world.