The process of open pit mining: structure and procedures

Various forms of mining are used to extract minerals and rocks from the earth's layers. Opencast mining is one of these methods. This method uses an open pit or mine and is most commonly used in situations where the desired rocks or minerals are near the surface of the earth.

Various forms of mining are used to extract minerals and rocks from the earth's layers. Opencast mining is one of these methods. This method uses an open pit loan or mine and is most commonly used in situations where the desired rocks or minerals are near the surface of the earth.

The structure of the mine

An open pit is structured in stages, often referred to as "benches", which represent the vertical levels of the well. These levels usually vary between four and sixty meters, but their size largely depends on the machines used by the mining company. The walls of the fountain are called Earth, while the flat part is called Berm or shore.

External walls are usually excavated to minimize the risk of rockfalls or landslides in adverse weather conditions such as heavy rainfall. However, there may also be supports such as anchor bolts or shotcrete used to stabilize the area for the workers. In addition, many opencast mines require the implementation of measures for water remediation. In some cases, holes can be made in the wall, which can also cause the wall to fail.

Transport of rocks and minerals from an open pit

All mines must have resources to extract mined ore. Most open pit mines have a road on the side of the well to transport ore and rock waste. This route allows trucks to move safely near the mining area and receive their respective cargoes.

Waste is also a problem that needs to be addressed appropriately in every mining situation. In most cases, the waste is deposited in a landfill, often in an area near the edge of the well, which is also structured in its structure.

What does he leave behind the open pit?

Residues are a telltale sign of an old mining operation. The residues are treated ore residues and, when fresh, are often in the form of sludge in a sedimentation pond or a so-called tailings dam. The water eventually evaporates and, if left unattended, can pose a threat to wildlife and humans. Residues can be highly toxic because they often contain sulfur minerals as well as cyanide and other chemicals used in mineral and mineral extraction.

The opencast mining community and their fate

Most people consider quarrying mines to be quarries, which is why they are far more common than previously thought. In most existing areas, open-pit operations are often expanded so that the resource is depleted or mining is no longer economical.

Once an open pit is closed, several scenarios can occur. Rehabilitation and restoration is a recent problem, which means that some companies that own open pits need to take steps to rebuild the site before leaving the site. Other areas convert these mining areas into landfills, lakes or other farms.

See also  Hammer