Block Caving - A Cost-Effective Underground Mining Method
Block caving is a very efficient underground mining method. Its costs are lower than other mining methods per tonne mined. In addition, it requires a lower ventilation requirement. It also allows for a more flexible use of equipment, such as LHDs. In block cave mining, a section of the rock mass is undercut and then collapses into excavations. These form ore extraction drawpoints. Cost-effectiveness Compared with other mining methods, block caving is one of the most cost-effective ways to mine copper and gold. It also reduces the need for surface waste disposal. However, it requires substantial planning and infrastructure and a long lead time. This method can be more sensitive to world events than other mining techniques, making it a riskier investment. To develop a block cave, access shafts are excavated to a level below the ore body. Horizontal tunnels, known as haulage tunnels, are then dug benearth the ore body. These are followed by a series of upward-sloping tunnels, kno...