Introduction to Underground Mining

Underground mining is used when ore bodies are too deep or too small for open pit methods. When to Go Underground - High grades compensate for higher costs - Steep or narrow ore bodies - Deep deposits - Environmental constraints Mining Methods Open Stoping - Sublevel open stoping - Longhole open stoping - Room and pillar Cut and Fill - Overhand or underhand - Selective mining possible - Good ground support Block Caving - Large scale, low cost - Massive deposits - Causes surface subsidence Geology Role - Ore definition - Ground support recommendations - Ore drive layout - Production grade control

All lessons in Underground Geology — Return to the complete Underground Geology course outline.
Next lesson: Face Mapping Underground — Underground face mapping documents geology at the mining front. Access and Safety - Wait for blasting all-clear - Check for loose rock barring down …

Verification resources

Cross-check terminology, classification, methods, and safety with these authoritative external resources.

Underground hard-rock mining — Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Canadian occupational-health guidance about underground mining hazards and controls.
Mineral Exploration Best Practice Guidelines — Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. Professional guidance for geological records, sampling, interpretation, security, and QA/QC.

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Introduction to Underground Mining

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Verification resources