The stability of high and steep slopes has become an increasingly prominent issue due to the intersection of natural forces and human engineering activities. It is a key factor influencing both the safety of projects and the protection of surrounding environments. In the face of complex and changing geological conditions and increasing engineering needs, traditional slope protection and reinforcement methods are increasingly unable to meet the comprehensive requirements of efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Against this backdrop, self-drilling anchor bolts have gradually emerged as a trusted solution in high-slope protection and reinforcement, thanks to their unique advantages. As a new type of anchor bolt that combines drilling, grouting, and anchoring functions, self-drilling anchor bolts simplify the construction process, improve work efficiency, and demonstrate excellent performance in ensuring slope stability and preventing geological disasters. This article will explore the application of self-drilling anchor bolts in high-slope protection, uncover the scientific principles and engineering practices behind them, and provide new ideas and solutions for slope reinforcement.

Advantages of Self-Drilling Anchor Bolts in High-Slope Protection

Convenient and Fast Construction

Traditional anchor bolt construction requires drilling, installing, and grouting. Self-drilling anchor bolts simplify these steps by combining drilling, grouting, and anchoring into one seamless operation. The anchor bar, which serves as the drill rod, is not withdrawn but directly used as the anchor, significantly reducing construction time.

Strong Adaptability

Self-drilling anchor bolts extend while drilling, allowing them to be cut and connected at any length. This makes them suitable for a variety of complex geological conditions. They can effectively anchor in hard rock or soft soil. Additionally, they can be utilized in confined spaces, allowing for the creation of long anchor bolts to reinforce the surrounding rock.

Effective Grouting

The hollow structure of self-drilling anchor bolts ensures more uniform and complete grouting. The high-performance grout plug maintains pressure during the grouting process, ensuring the grout fills gaps and consolidates fractured rock. It not only improves slope stability but also prevents underground water seepage.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to traditional anchor bolts, self-drilling anchor bolts are more cost-effective. They do not require casing protection or pre-grouting, saving on materials and labor. At the same time, due to the speed of construction, the construction period was shortened, further reducing the project’s cost.

Application in High-Slope Protection Reinforcement

In the case of the west-side slope reinforcement project at a nuclear power plant’s site, the slope had experienced partial collapses and rockfalls caused by erosion from rainwater and blasting operations. To improve the slope’s stability, engineers used self-drilling anchor bolts for reinforcement.

Repair of Access Roads

For severely collapsed access roads, C15 concrete was used for repair. The vertical transportation of concrete was carried out through a spraying process, where concrete was sprayed into the construction area using hoses. This method is simple, equipment is easy to move, and it is particularly flexible for dispersed work sites.

Anchor Bolt Reinforcement

Self-drilling hollow anchor bolts were utilized to reinforce the grid structure, with an anchor bolt diameter of 27mm and a drilling hole diameter of 80mm, ranging in length from 6 to 12 meters. After completing the anchor bolt installation, a wire mesh was attached, and a round steel reinforcement was pressed and tied in place, followed by spraying with C20 concrete. This anchor-spraying support method effectively enhanced slope stability and prevented rockfalls.

Slope Protection Results

After reinforcement with self-drilling anchor bolts, the slope’s stability was significantly improved. Subsequent monitoring showed no obvious deformation or cracks. The use of self-drilling anchor bolts ensured the slope’s safety and stability, providing robust support for the project’s successful progression.

Applications in Other Projects

• Tunnel Projects: During tunnel excavation, self-drilling anchor bolts can be used to support tunnel walls, preventing rockfalls.
• Foundation Pit Support: In deep excavation of foundation pits, self-drilling anchor bolts can be utilized as part of the support structure to enhance the stability of the pit.
• Slope Treatment: For slopes at risk of landslides, self-drilling anchor bolts can be used to strengthen rock masses, increasing the slope’s resistance to sliding.

Conclusion

The application of self-drilling anchor bolts in high-slope protection represents an innovation in traditional slope reinforcement techniques and a strong implementation of modern engineering safety and environmental protection concepts. Through the analysis and validation of real-world engineering cases, it is evident that self-drilling anchor bolts, with their efficient construction, strong anchoring capabilities, and excellent adaptability, play an irreplaceable role in reinforcing high-slope areas under complex geological conditions. They improve slope stability, reduce the risk of geological disasters, and save significant human and material costs for construction teams, achieving both economic and social benefits. As we look to the future, the ongoing progress in material science, construction techniques, and information technology will enhance the performance and broaden the application of self-drilling anchor bolts. This development will play a significant role in creating engineering environments that are safer, greener, and more sustainable. Therefore, in-depth research and promotion of self-drilling anchor bolts in high-slope protection have profound significance in driving innovation and development in slope engineering technology.

If you seek an efficient, convenient, and economical solution for slope protection and reinforcement, consider self-drilling anchor bolts. They will bring unexpected benefits and success to your project.