In the field of mineral resource development, efficiently and safely mining gently inclined, moderately thick ore bodies in soft and fragile rock formations remains a critical challenge for many mining enterprises. These types of ore bodies are characterized by poor rock stability, gentle dips, and moderate thickness, making them difficult to extract using conventional methods. However, with the continuous advancement and innovation of mining technology, a series of scientific and efficient mining methods have emerged, providing strong support for solving this problem. This article explores effective strategies for mining such ore bodies and offers practical guidance for industry professionals.
Understanding Ore Body Characteristics and Selecting the Right Mining Method
To successfully mine soft, gently inclined, medium-thick ore bodies, it is essential to thoroughly understand the characteristics of the ore body. Such ore bodies typically feature poor rock stability, gentle inclination, and significant thickness, presenting numerous challenges for mining operations. Therefore, when selecting mining methods, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as the geological conditions of the ore body, mining technical conditions, and economic viability. Based on these characteristics, the following proven mining methods can be selected:
Two-Step Room and Pillar Mining Method
Best suited for: Ore bodies with stable roofs and a thickness of less than 4 meters.
Key procedures:
- Drilling and blasting: Using specialized jumbos to create cut slots and conduct controlled blasting based on the required compensation space.
- Ventilation design: Maintain adequate airflow in the stope for safe working conditions.
- Roof management: Implement real-time stress monitoring and assign dedicated teams to inspect and remove loose rock from the roof.
Advantages: High efficiency and adaptability while ensuring operational safety.
Pre-Controlled Roof Room and Pillar Method
Best suited for: Thicker ore bodies where roof control is difficult.
Key procedures:
- Sequential blasting: Perform pre-splitting on the roof layer with appropriate support before drilling and blasting the ore body below.
- Ore extraction: Use electric scrapers or LHDs for efficient ore removal.
- Ventilation and roof control: Follow strict safety protocols similar to the two-step method.
Advantages: Enhances safety by pre-managing unstable roofs before full-scale mining.
Continuous Caving Without Pillars
Best suited for: Low-grade ore bodies with fractured roofs.
Key procedures:
- Drill raises: Install drill raises at intervals for ore transport.
- Retreat mining: Conduct blasting in paired stops in a retreat sequence.
- Dilution control: Use advanced LHDs and enforce strict cutoff grade controls to reduce dilution and maintain ore quality.
Advantages: Suitable for ore bodies with broken roof strata, it can effectively control dilution and improve mining efficiency.
Optimizing Mining Processes for Efficiency and Safety
Beyond choosing the appropriate method, refining the mining process is crucial for improved outcomes:
- Modern equipment: Incorporate advanced jumbos, LHDs, and stress monitoring systems to boost automation and operational safety.
- Safety management: Establish robust safety protocols and emergency plans and provide regular safety training for all personnel.
- Parameter planning: Carefully plan stope height, layout, and drift width to suit site-specific geological conditions.
Green Mining for Sustainable Development
While pursuing mining efficiency and safety, we must not overlook the impact on the environment. By adopting green mining technologies, such as backfilling mining methods, we can minimize damage to the surface and environmental pollution, thereby achieving the sustainable use of mineral resources.
Conclusion
Mining gently inclined, moderately thick ore bodies in soft and easily fractured rock requires a strategic blend of technical precision, process optimization, and safety assurance. By scientifically selecting and flexibly applying advanced mining technologies, continuously optimizing mining processes, and strengthening safety management measures, we can effectively address the challenges posed by this complex mining environment, achieving efficient development and sustainable utilization of mineral resources.
Looking ahead, continuous innovation in mining technology will make operations in these environments increasingly safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly—paving the way for high-quality development in the mining sector.
