We’re putting a users meeting together for those who’d like a bit of an update regarding the mines etc. The meeting will go ahead using Google Meets, you can join the meeting by following this link: https://meet.google.com/wwz-dbnh-izb
This years inspection reports are now available, however will only be added to providers Google Drive once payment has been received.
For any new providers interested in buying into the reports for this year, the cost of the reports alone are £135, with an additional £25 if you wish to lead groups in Rhiwbach (to cover the cost of parking at the base of the mine, 2 vehicles only please) and replacement locks etc.
A brief write up following last weeks meeting has been circulated to the email addresses for those registered to receive updates on the mines. If you’d like a read bug whoever you’re working for!!
Some key points:
Please hang up the BAs in Rhiwbach after use, leave them in the boat for others unless you’ve confirmed with the team behind you they’re planning on using the boat
All BAs in the mine have been checked and are fit for purpose
All anchors in the mines have been checked. Rigging diagrams available to confirm those that passed, and those that did not!
Some work on the reservoir above Rhiwbach may start in the next few months. No access restrictions just take care walking the track with groups as there may be heavy machines using the track
Upper gate of Rhiwbach being looked at and options discussed
Radon Underground update coming soon, expect a requirement to comply with the new regulations
Next round of inspections starting week commencing the 16th March. More info soon…
If you spot any changes in the mines following the storms please let us know so we can spread the word. Be extra vigulant in the slate mines after the heavy rains!
The BAs in Rhiwbach were checked today with all passing. Each BA was visually inspected for any damage or lack of function and a selection float tested.
The float test took place in the mine, it would be good to get feedback from users on how quickly they dry should we need to do testing outside in the future. Testing in the mine was quick and easy, and would be even easier in the future as a suitable weight and tether are now in hidden behind the boulders in the boating chamber.
Sheet within the mine’s been updated and a copy here. This sheet may change depending on the outcome of this years users meeting with regards the frequently of inspections.
Following previous years gatherings, we’ve arranged another opportunity for those working within the mines to get together, discuss any hot topics, concerns and find out about on-going projects and issues.
We’ve had a report today that both the rope fixed to help escape the mine should the entrance flood has been reported to be seriously damaged, and anchors supporting the rope suspect.
If you’re likely to be using the mine in the near future it may be worth considering checking the anchors and replacing the fixed rope.
Anchor testing in Rhiwbach, Bwlch y Plwm, Wrysgan and Fish Caves has now been completed (to be fair Pete finished off Rhiwbach and Bwlch y Plwm over the Summer!)
Anchors within the blue routes were visually inspected, and where appropriate pull tested with a Hydrawjaw test rig up to 6kN for 15sec. To pass the test the anchor needs to hold the load for that period without fluctuating.
All anchors that passed both the visual (i.e. recognisable, no signs of corruption, not deformed, no movement) and pull test will have a green cable tie fixed to them, any that failed (but we’ve not been able to extract) will have a red cable tie. Anchors with no cable ties may not have been tested as it wasn’t possible to fit the test rig over the anchor.
Rigging plans with all the tested anchors are available here, with the exception of Wrysgan which just needs double checking, all will be added to the Mine Inspection Reports folders available through Google Docs.
Several anchors failed during the tests (see video).
In several cases old 12mm SPIT type anchors (found in Wrysgan) pulled at relatively low loads. These all showed signs of corrosion. There are several Petzl long-life (see photo) anchors in Bwlch y Plwm that were not tested, if using these you do so at your own risk. Any expansion anchor to be tested really needs to have the anchor plate removed and the pull device attached directly to the anchoring component. This isn’t possible with the Petzl long-lifes.
Notably several anchors in Fish Caves failed, and frustratingly it was not possible to remove them. The failure mechanism looks to have been a resin/rock bond failure which suggests the holes were more cleaned throughly before placing the resin. The failed anchors are all on the second pitch in Fish Caves and so requires a slightly different approach to rigging (see rigging diagram). I’m afraid this is going to persecute the short!
Fish Caves is rigged predominantly with DMM anchors. These flex when the tested so it’s not unusual to see the resin around the head of the anchor crack (see the image of a passed anchor below). Do not be alarmed by this if using these anchors. However as will all anchors ultimately the user must make a decision if they feel it’s safe to use. Before each use check;
Do you recognise the anchor (i.e. is it PPE, manufactured by a reputable company)
Check for signs of corrosion
Is the anchor set properly (i.e. nor proud of the rock)
Check the anchor isn’t deformed or have any sharp edges (especially if tying in direct)
Does the rock around the anchor look sound?
Does the anchor move if twisted by hand
Please report any defective anchors through the mines inspections email account, through facebook or direct here:
Bwlch y Plwm
Fish Caves
Test rig
Passed anchor. Note the small crack in resin, this is common following pull test of this type of anchor. However the anchor should not be proud of the rock
Failed anchor (proud) Fish Caves
Failed anchor (note resin) Fish Caves
Alternative rigging for the second pitch in Fish Caves
From entrance (floor 4/Dressing Sheds) 1st Pitch
Middle Pitch (opposite Pillar)
Easy Pitch (following Level 1 traverse from the wooden ladder/roped step)
Full Traverse to the Middle Pillar (additional traverse after this to the roped step/wooden ladder)
The latest mine reports have been uploaded to providers Google Drive box. Those with access should be able to log in and download the most recent repots by following this link: https://nwminereports.com/reports/latest-users-reports/
At a recent panel meeting concern was expressed regarding the conservation of our mines. The panel would ask the following statement is shared among current and aspirant instructors;
Members of the N.Wales LCMLA trainer/assessor panel are becoming increasingly concerned with the level of food waste and rubbish found within the mines, and the deterioration of some unique artifacts.
We would ask that group leaders try to eat outside the mine where any food waste accidently dropped will degrade. If eating underground is unavoidable please consider what you’re eating, for example try to avoid eating crisps or grated cheese which is easily dropped, save them until you get out! Please also make all efforts to pick up any dropped food or rubbish.
Please do not pick up or move any artifacts such as the slate wagon in Rhiwbach or the hobnail boots, and please make sure groups are appropriately supervised when exploring areas where there are known caches of artifacts. It’s sadly noticeable how much some of these artifacts, having survived for decades, have degraded or been completely destroyed given the increased activity within the mines.
Please be aware that the panel will be taking a more robust stance during assessments with regards to conservation.