3D seismic surveying for coal mine applications at Appin Colliery, NSW

Abstract

Modern underground coal mining requires detailed knowledge of geological faults and other geological features. A fault of throw greater than a seam thickness of about 3 m can cause enormous delays to mine production. BHP Coal has been using 2D seismic surveying for some time to map structures with throws down to about 5 or 6 m but in an effort to obtain better resolution (mainly through seismic coverage), 3D seismic surveys are now being undertaken. For this application, the strength of 3D seismic surveying lies in the ability to establish the continuity of subtle features from one bin section to the next. Maps of the interpreted horizons allow very small features to be seen. Attribute analysis adds further structural and lithological information to the interpretation. The present indications are that 3D seismic surveying is set to become a key tool in coal mine exploration.