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Underground Mining in Australia and its Primary Methods
Mining has always been the backbone of the Australian economy, offering countless job opportunities and contributing significantly to the nation's stability. Australia boasts numerous mining sites that employ various methods to extract minerals from beneath the Earth's surface. Among these methods, underground mining stands out as particularly prevalent in the region.
In 2023, the mining sector accounted for 13.6% of Australia’s total GDP. One of the most common techniques employed in this sector is underground mining, which involves miners using a variety of techniques tailored to different geological conditions. In this article, we'll delve into these methods and explore the strategies behind them. Let's dive in!
### Overview of Underground Mining and Its Methods
Underground mining is a traditional approach used to extract valuable ores and minerals from beneath the Earth's surface. This method requires specialized machinery and equipment and is typically chosen when surface mining isn't feasible. It's not exclusive to Australia; it's practiced globally wherever necessary.
While surface mining is straightforward, underground mining becomes essential when the target minerals lie too deep beneath the surface. Attempting surface mining in such scenarios would be excessively costly and impractical. In such situations, miners venture deep into the earth to retrieve the desired materials. Different methods are employed in underground mining, each suited to specific conditions. The selection of a particular method hinges on the characteristics of the mining site.
Choosing the correct underground mining method is crucial. Mining poses inherent risks, and selecting the wrong technique could lead to catastrophic outcomes. The strength of the surrounding rocks varies—some are sturdy enough to withstand excavation, while others are more fragile. For weak rocks, supported mining methods are necessary to prevent collapses, whereas robust rocks allow for unsupported methods. Before commencing mining activities, teams assess the site thoroughly to determine the best-suited method. Each method has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the final choice is made after careful consideration.
A quick tip: Each underground mining method caters to specific conditions and areas. The decision-making process involves detailed inspections. In Australia, miners apply different techniques, and we’ll cover each in detail below.
### Primary Methods of Underground Mining in Australia
Australia’s vast mineral wealth drives the need for diverse mining practices. Mining companies utilize several methods to extract valuable minerals and ores. While one method might not be universally superior to others, each offers unique advantages that contribute to efficient mining operations. Below is a list of standard underground mining methods used across Australia:
- Open Stoping (Unsupported Method)
- Room and Pillar (Unsupported Method)
- Block Caving (Caving Methods)
- Shrinkage Stoping (Unsupported Method)
- Cut and Fill Mining (Supported Methods)
- Longwall Mining (Caving Methods)
- Sub Level Caving (Caving Methods)
These methods fall under three broader categories: supported, unsupported, and caving. Let’s explore each method and its respective category.
#### 1- Open Stoping (Unsupported Method)
This method is widely used in Western and Southern Australia due to its affordability and efficiency. Initially, researchers identify the mineral location, followed by miners digging a hole or "stop" at that point. This method is unsupported, meaning the rocks near the stop are left intact without additional support. Miners then descend into the stop to extract the ore. The ores that are loosely attached to the rock fall off naturally, simplifying the extraction process. On average, this method yields between 20,000 to 25,000 ores per month. Safety is paramount, and since the nearby rocks are stable, miners face minimal risks. Loose rocks are addressed promptly to ensure smooth operations.
#### 2- Room and Pillar (Unsupported Method)
The room and pillar method is relatively straightforward but less secure than open stoping. Miners carve out spaces in the rock to access the ore while leaving certain portions as pillars. These pillars serve as supports to prevent the rocks from collapsing. The mined-out sections are referred to as "rooms," where miners extract the minerals. Over time, the area resembles a grid of interconnected rooms and pillars. Given the weaker nature of the rocks, this method proves effective. Miners rely on the pillars to maintain structural integrity as they progress deeper. This approach ensures the overall stability of the rock formation.
#### 3- Block Caving (Caving Methods)
Block caving is highly efficient, capable of producing up to 100,000 tonnes of ore daily, with scalability depending on demand. Miners create tunnels leading to the ore body, which is typically located on solid ground. By removing the rock beneath the ore body, they destabilize it, causing it to collapse and accumulate at the base. The fall is carefully controlled, allowing miners to collect the accumulated ore efficiently. Modern machinery expedites the process, making it both swift and reliable. Importantly, this method ensures miner safety, as they stay clear of the collapsing ore body.
#### 4- Shrinkage Stoping (Unsupported Method)
This method is intricate and potentially risky. It’s employed when the ore body is steep and extends deeply. Accessing the base directly is impossible, so miners dig tunnels from various angles to reach the ore body. Once reached, they extract ore from the body, gradually cutting away the lower portions. As the base empties, gravity causes the ore body to collapse, making extraction easier. Miners must dig deep and steep tunnels to access the ore body, though this method is time-intensive.
#### 5- Cut and Fill Mining (Supported Methods)
Though complex, this method proves useful when dealing with softer rocks. It falls under the supported mining category. Miners excavate the steep ore body and carefully cut sections. After extraction, they fill the voids with stabilizing material to prevent collapse. Despite the added expense, this method ensures stability and prevents structural failures. However, the cost of fill material is high, and the softer rocks pose risks to miners.
#### 6- Longwall Mining (Caving Methods)
Longwall mining relies heavily on machinery like shearers and conveyors. Miners identify coal blocks beneath the surface and extract them in a single slice. The shearer cuts the coal, which is then transported to the surface via conveyors. To prevent roof collapse, miners deploy protective shields. While efficient, this method is costly and slow due to the need for extensive equipment and infrastructure.
#### 7- Sub Level Caving (Caving Methods)
This method is ideal for unstable rock formations, especially deep and steep ore bodies. Miners dig multiple deep tunnels toward the ore body, creating holes for explosives. Detonating these explosives breaks the ore body into manageable fragments, which miners collect and transport. Despite being cost-effective, this method carries inherent risks.
### Factors Influencing the Choice of Mining Method
Australia is a global leader in mining, with numerous operations scattered throughout the continent. However, there is no universal method for mining; the choice depends on the site's conditions. For instance, open stoping might be suitable in one area, while block caving could be preferable elsewhere. Two key factors decisively influence method selection:
1. **Rock and Ore Stability**: The strength of the rocks determines whether unsupported or caving methods should be used. Safety remains the top priority.
2. **Cost and Practicality**: Mining methods must be cost-effective and practical. Companies seek profitability and avoid wasting resources on inefficient techniques.
### Major Underground Mining Operations in Australia
Australia’s mining industry is massive, contributing significantly to the economy. According to Geoscience Australia, there are currently 350 operational mines in the country. These mines span the entire continent, with Western and Southern regions being particularly renowned for their mining activities. Some of the largest underground mining operations include:
- Mount Isa Mines (Queensland)
- Fosterville Gold Mine (Victoria)
- Cadia Valley Operations (New South Wales)
- Anglo-American Australia’s Callide (Queensland)
- Fortescue Metals operations (Western Australia)
- Rio Tinto operations (Queensland and New South Wales)
- BHP Billiton’s Olympic Dam operations (South Australia)
Cadia Valley alone generates around 2,000 jobs through its underground mining operations. Its substantial mineral reserves highlight the importance of these operations.
### Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: What are the underground mining methods used in Australia?**
A: Australia employs various methods including open stoping, room and pillar, block caving, shrinkage stoping, cut and fill mining, longwall mining, and sub-level caving.
**Q: Is there underground mining in Australia?**
A: Yes, underground mining is extensively practiced in Australia. Many mining companies depend on this method for resource extraction.
**Q: What are the advantages of underground mining in Australia?**
A: Underground mining allows access to minerals deep within the Earth, something surface mining cannot achieve. It provides a consistent supply of minerals unaffected by weather and prevents surface mineral washout.
### Conclusion
Underground mining in Australia is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, delivering immense quantities of ore with remarkable efficiency. While various methods are used, the choice ultimately depends on the geological conditions and cost considerations. Two critical factors—rock stability and cost-effectiveness—guide the decision-making process. Australia continues to leverage these methods to sustain its position as a global mining powerhouse.