Mining methods and method selection

Abstract

Recovery of mineral from subsurface rock involves the development of physical access to the mineralized zone, liberation of the ore from the enclosing host rock and transport of this material to the mine surface. Excavations of various shapes, sizes, orientations and functions are required to support the series of operations which comprise the complete mining process. A schematic layout of an underground mine is shown in Figure 12.1. Three types of excavations employed in the process are recognised in the figure. These are the ore sources, or stopes, the stope access and service openings, or stope development, and the permanent access and service openings. Irrespective of the method used to mine an orebody, similarities exist between the functions and the required geomechanical performances of the different types of non-production excavations.