Underground Mine Design and Scale Determination
Introduction
Mining operations encompass vast areas that require detailed planning and implementation. A key factor in such operations is the consideration of an appropriate mining scale - the size and shape of a mine, the number of shafts, the configuration of underground workings and the number of personnel employed. All these factors must be taken into account when devising an optimal plan for a mining operation. In this paper, we will discuss the various scales of underground mining, the different methods for determining the scale of a mine and their limitations, and the key considerations for each.
Types and Scales of Underground Mining
Underground mining operations are typically broken down into various types or scales, each supplying different types and quantities of resources. Broadly, the scale of a mine is determined by the level of resource extraction expected by the operators. The three main scales of underground mining operations are: Small-Scale Mining, Medium-Scale Mining, and Large-Scale Mining.
Small-scale mining refers to operations digging up a resource in a single, small area. Examples include extracting gold and diamonds in alluvial deposits, as well as tin, lead, tungsten and other minerals. Such operations typically involve single operations and are generally worked by few personnel, with minimal development and infrastructure.
Medium-scale mining focuses on the extraction of a resource over a larger area. This usually requires multiple operations, along with more developmental work and more personnel. Examples include large coal and oil-shale deposits. In some medium-scale operations, an underground mine can be as deep as 5,000 feet and as wide as multiple miles.
Large-scale mining typically refers to operations digging up resources in large areas over extended periods of time. This involves a large number of operations and personnel, along with substantially more development and infrastructure. Examples include open-pit mining for large ore deposits.
Determining the Scale of an Underground Mine
There are several methods for determining the scale of an underground mine. The most crucial factor is the amount of resource to be extracted and the local geology, which determines the considerations for determining the final mine scale.
The most common method is to analyze geological data and map the size of the deposit. Geologists review seismic and drilling reports to identify the potential location and size of the ore body. This data is used to calculate the number of shafts and ore veins required to optimize extraction.
In addition to geology, the size and type of machinery to be used in a mine is a factor in mine scale determination. Heavy machinery requires larger tunnels, shafts, and haulage roads and requires more personnel to operate it. This must be taken into account when designing the scale of the underground mine.
Another consideration when determining the scale of a mine is the manpower required. Peak production efficiency is largely dependent on the number of personnel working in the mine, as well as the length of the shift schedule.
Finally, the environmental impact of a mine must be considered when devising its scale. Regulations must be followed regarding geotechnical sealants and materials, along with surface area restoration.
Key Considerations
When determining the scale of an underground mine, the key considerations are:
1. Geology: The size and depth of the ore body and the surrounding geological features must be taken into account when determining a mine scale.
2. Machinery: The type of machinery needed to effectively dig and transport ore must be considered when devising a mine scale.
3. Personnel: The number of personnel required to operate the machinery, along with their shifts, must be taken into account.
4. Environment: Regulations and mitigation efforts must be followed when devising a sustainable mine scale.
Conclusion
Deciding the scale of a mine is a complex process that requires detailed consideration of the resource to be extracted, the local geology, the machinery required, and the environmental impact. All of these considerations must be taken into account before an optimal mine scale can be determined.
