MINIMUM
REQUIREMENTS

• Windows XP or later, 32 or 64 bit
• 200 MB of free hard-disk space
• 256 MB memory (RAM)

SUGGESTED REQUIREMENTS

• Windows 7, 32 or 64 bit
• 200 MB of free hard-disk space
• 1 GB memory (RAM)

To assist with the determination of appropriate input parameters for the Generalized Hoek-Brown failure criterion, RocSupport provides convenient built-in charts and tables. These allow you to obtain reasonable estimates of Geological Strength Index (GSI), intact rock constant mi, intact uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and Disturbance Factor (D). Simply select the Pick button for the parameter of interest and the corresponding chart or table will appear.

Select a Pick button to view a chart or table

 

 

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Estimation of GSI

Estimates of GSI (Geological Strength Index) can be obtained based on the rock structure and surface conditions. Two distinct charts are available, for either General or Flysch rock types.

GSI chart for General rock types

GSI chart for Flysh rock types

 

 

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Estimation of mi

The intact rock constant mi can be estimated with the following dialog. Values of mi are provided for over 40 different rock types. For further convenience, the list can be filtered by rock type (sedimentary, igneous or metamorphic) and/or texture.

Dialog for estimation of mi

 

 

 

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Estimation of UCS

The intact uniaxial compressive strength can be estimated with the following dialog. Based on the rock type and field estimates of strength, approximate values of UCS can be determined.

Dialog for estimation of UCS

 

 

 

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Estimation of Disturbance Factor

The Disturbance Factor (D) used in the Generalized Hoek-Brown failure criterion can be estimated with the help of the following dialog, which presents descriptions and images of typical excavation conditions.

Dialog for estimation of Disturbance Factor