Mining is a recognized way to acquire valuable materials for usage. The activity involves the extraction of ore, minerals and other resources from beneath the surface of the earth. These activities may include surface and underground mining. Surface mining involves digging into the grounds surface and extracting the materials from the openpit.
In the development of a coal mine, the return of the mine’s faces is an important factor to ensure the safety and success of the project. Return of the mine faces refers to the process of excavating the advancing faces of a coal mine in order that the coal can be safely and effectively mined. This process is sometimes also referred to as face loading. Return of the mine faces generally follows three simple steps.
The first step in the process is to start by removing the overburden or soil, debris, and rock that is on top of the coal face. This overburden is removed either by a bulldozer or strip mining. Once the overburden is removed, the next step is to begin removing the coal. This step is known as face loading; he process involves the use of specialized mining equipment to move the coal from the face and to ensure a safe working environment for miners.
Once the coal has been removed from the face, the process of backfilling the open space is necessary. This involves replacing the material that was removed in the previous step and returning the mine face to its original state. During this step, additional supports may be put in place if necessary to ensure the safety of the workers and to provide sufficient support to the walls of the excavated mine.
Once the mine face has been successfully backfilled and all necessary safety measures have been taken, the next step is to begin the journey towards production. Face loading is completed so that mineral reserves can be accessed, your end product can be delivered to the surface, and operations can continue.
Return of the mine face is necessary for the safe continuing operations of any mine. This process involves the complete excavation, loading, and backfilling of the advancing faces of a coal mine. Safety measures are taken on an ongoing basis to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel. Without proper care and an understanding of the process, the operations of a mine could be jeopardized, resulting in a loss of time and money. Mining is a potentially dangerous activity and having a good understanding of the process of return of the mine face is essential.
