Technical Workshop: Finite Element Modelling of Underground Excavations

Following the Rocscience User Group Meeting on August 25, this two-day technical workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to finite element modelling (FEM) for underground excavations using RS2 and RS3, along with advanced block stability analysis using RocTunnel3.

Designed for geotechnical engineers and professionals working in underground projects, the workshop combines fundamental theory with hands-on modelling exercises and real-world applications.

Event Details

• Dates: Wednesday, August 26 – Thursday, August 27, 2026
• Location: The Westin Perth, Australia (480 Hay St, Perth WA)
• Software: RS2, RS3, RocTunnel3

Registration Fees

• Early Bird: USD $1,295 (until July 17, 2026)
• Regular: USD $1,495

What You Will Learn

• Core principles of rock mechanics and underground excavation stability
• Fundamentals of stress, strain, and FEM concepts
• Practical 2D and 3D modelling techniques using RS2 and RS3
• Discrete fracture network (DFN) modelling and interpretation
• Advanced block stability analysis using RocTunnel3

Course Outline

Module 1: Fundamentals of Underground Excavation Stability Analysis

• Overview of rock masses, rock mechanics and underground excavation stability
• Fundamentals of solid mechanics including concepts of stress, strain and stress-strain relationships
• Overview of the Finite Element Method
• Basic RS2 modelling to explore FEM concepts and result interpretation.
• 2D vs 3D analysis of underground problems in rock

Module 2: Modelling underground stability with RS3

• 3D geometry creation and clean up
• Excavation and backfill staging
• Meshing and mesh refinement
• Applying joints and discrete fracture networks
• Interpretation and reporting of results in 3D
• Group exercise to create, compute and interpret example case study

Module 3: Modelling underground stability with RS3

• Comparison of RocTunnel3 with UnWedge
• Discrete Fracture Network generation using DIPS
• Advanced 3D block stability analysis using RocTunnel3 for various excavation types such as tunnels, stopes, raise bores, and portals.

Course Instructors: Dr. Alison McQuillan, Director at Rocscience Australia, Jiwoo Ahn, Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Rocscience Australia

Register