Narrow Vein Open Stoping: Conventional vs. Raise Climber Mining
Mr Ken McKirdy, Mrs Tracy Kitchkeesick
Two bulk mining methods are compared for a narrow tabular ore zone offset from the main ore zone. The mining of an offset zone is analyzed at varying ore thicknesses to identify which method is best suited to each thickness. The comparison includes a description of the offset zone geometry and specific gravity. A brief description is included of the opening size selection using the Stope Stability Method. The comparison includes a description of each method and associated assumptions made for this presentation. The comparison starts at the fully serviced main zone openings and continues until the last stope in the offset zone is blasted. Crew size and responsibilities are explained. The schedules use reasonable productivities for the individual tasks associated with each method. The overall comparison basis is tonnage per employee-shift.
