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Itasca Educational Partnership

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Software Tutorials

Using Python in Itasca Software

Python scripting is built into current versions of FLAC3D, 3DEC, and PFC. This video introduces users of Itasca software to working with Python and FLAC3D, 3DEC, and PFC types (zones, blocks, ball, structural elements, and so on). The Itasca Module, a comparison with FISH scripting, and object-oriented and array-oriented interfaces are reviewed and demonstrated.

FLAC3D 7 0 Cutting Tool Tutorial

This tutorial will show how to use the Plot Item Cutting Tool in FLAC3D 7. Creating cut plans is useful for seeing inside 3D model plots. FLAC3D cutting planes include a single-surface plane, a double-surface wedge, and a three-surface octant.

MINEDW Tutorial (Part 2: Visualization Options)

In this tutorial we will explore all the visualization components that MINEDW has to offer, and all the options available to the user to visualize the model's components and properties.

Technical Papers

Connectivity, permeability, and channeling in randomly distributed and kinematically defined discrete fracture network models

A major use of DFN models for industrial applications is to evaluate permeability and flow structure in hardrock aquifers from geological observations of fracture networks. The relationship between the statistical fracture density distributions and permeability has been extensively studied, but there has been little interest in the spatial structure of DFN models, which is generally assumed to be spatially random (i.e., Poisson). In this paper, we compare the predictions of Poisson DFNs to new DFN models where fractures result from a growth process defined by simplified kinematic rules for nucleation, growth, and fracture arrest.

The role of rock mass heterogeneity and buckling mechanisms in excavation performance in foliated ground at Westwood Mine, Quebec

Operations at Westwood mine in Quebec, Canada were temporarily halted in May 2015 after three large-magnitude seismic events occurred over two days. The mechanisms leading to these events, which caused severe damage to several accesses, were not well understood at first. This paper presents the key aspects of FLAC3D back-analysis modelling, which include (1) an anisotropic rock mass strength model with properties derived from field and laboratory strength testing, and (2) a scheme to account implicitly for the deconfinement that accompanies buckling around excavations.

Application of InSAR for Monitoring Deformations at the Kiirunavaara Mine

Assess the use InSAR technology for LKAB's purposes - as a replacement and/or complement to current GPS measurements.

Latest News
  • ITASCA Strengthens North American Delivery of Integrated Geomechanics and Hydrogeology Solutions Drawing on decades of geomechanical and hydrogeological expertise, ITASCA has announced the formation of ITASCA...
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  • WEBINAR: Solving Geothermal Challenges with XSite Numerical Modeling ITASCA Software and Baker Hughes are hosting a collaborative webinar to demonstrate how combining advanced...
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  • Twin Ports Interchange Project Named Winner of ACEC/MN Grand Award Innovative ground improvement strategy secures long-term stability for the region's busiest artery for commerce and...
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Upcoming Events
26 Oct
ITASCA at Slope Stability 2026: Strategic Sponsor and Technical Contributor_2
ITASCA is proud to participate as a Strategic Sponsor in Slope Stability 2026, one of the world’s leading international symposiums focu... Read More
26 Oct
ITASCA at Slope Stability 2026: Strategic Sponsor and Technical Contributor
ITASCA is proud to participate as a Strategic Sponsor in Slope Stability 2026, one of the world’s leading international symposiums focu... Read More
8 Nov
ITASCA to Attend Tailings & Mine Waste 2026
This November, ITASCA will participate in Tailings & Mine Waste 2026 (TMW 2026), taking place from 8–11 November 2026 in Westminste... Read More