Rock bolt with unidirectional anchoring mechanism

Abstract

The invention provides a rock bolt assembly for stabilizing geological formations, having a unidirectional anchoring mechanism having an anchor arrangement at one end, termed a leading end, a tensioning bolt mechanism at a second end, the tensioning bolt mechanism configured to allow adjustment of tensile force applied to the rock bolt assembly after insertion, the tensioning bolt mechanism comprising a threaded component with an adjustable nut for selective tension application and a bearing plate against which the adjustable nut is tensioned, and a high-strength cable joining the unidirectional anchoring mechanism and the tensioning bolt mechanism, the cable being flexible for conformance with irregular borehole paths while capable of withstanding tensile forces when tensioned by the tensioning bolt mechanism, whereby, upon insertion into the borehole and engagement of the unidirectional anchoring mechanism, the tensioning bolt mechanism can be actuated so that the unidirectional anchoring mechanism firmly engages the borehole internal surface resisting withdrawal of the rock bolt from the borehole.