Using 3D Laser Scanning in Mining and Geotechnical Engineering

Discover how 3D laser scanning supports mining and geotechnical engineering — from pit mapping to tunnel deformation monitoring and volumetric analysis

Using 3D Laser Scanning in Mining and Geotechnical Engineering

3D laser scanning has become an essential tool in mining operations and geotechnical engineering due to its ability to rapidly capture complex terrain, underground voids, and structural surfaces with high precision. The data helps engineers make informed decisions about safety, excavation strategy, and resource management.

Key Applications in Mining

Open Pit Monitoring: Scan and track pit walls to detect slope movement or bench failures.
Underground Mapping: Document drifts, shafts, and tunnels in confined, low-light environments.
Stockpile Volume Measurement: Generate accurate volume calculations for reporting and reconciliation.
Drill & Blast Optimization: Analyze face geometry before blasting to reduce overbreak and dilution.
Infrastructure Inspection: Scan haul roads, retaining walls, and drainage systems for maintenance planning.

Geotechnical Engineering Use Cases

Deformation Monitoring: Compare scans over time to detect slope instability or ground movement.
Tunnel Lining Assessment: Evaluate convergence and deformation inside tunnels.
Rock Mass Characterization: Identify fault lines, fractures, and joint patterns for analysis.
Shotcrete and Liner Thickness Checks: Measure applied material after tunnel support installation.

Field Workflow in Mining Projects

Deploy a laser scanner in open pit, underground, or plant environments
Capture point clouds from multiple positions with overlap
Process data using software like Maptek PointStudio or Leica Cyclone
Generate surfaces, sections, and volume reports
Export results for design software or GIS platforms

For hazardous or tight spaces, some operations also use drone-based LiDAR for added safety and reach.

Recommended Scanner Types

For harsh mining conditions, use rugged and compact systems such as:

Leica BLK2GO – for mobile scanning in underground corridors
Trimble X7 – durable and accurate for above- and below-ground work
Maptek I-Site XR3 – purpose-built for mining with long-range capture and geotech tools

Benefits in Mining & Geotechnics

Improve operational safety with early hazard detection
Increase survey speed and reduce exposure to hazardous zones
Provide objective data for audit, compliance, and planning
Support digital twin creation for remote mine monitoring

Conclusion

3D laser scanning in mining and geotechnical engineering unlocks better decision-making through detailed spatial awareness. Whether you’re monitoring slope stability or calculating stockpile volumes, laser scanning offers speed, safety, and unmatched data quality.

Ready to equip your mine site with the latest scanning tools? Explore our industrial scanner collection or view our mining project scanning guide.