Critical Issues of Ore Flow for the Raise Caving Method

Abstract Ore flow has been identified as one of the critical points developing novel mining method Raise Caving (RC). The focus this contribution is on key issues ore-flow and how to encounter them enable a safe, efficient, economic operation. In de-stressing phase RC, narrow, tabular slots are developed via raises, only blast swell drawn, hence they stay filled with blasted material at all times support hanging wall in order prevent early caving dilution ingress. To simultaneously free surface top for blasting, extracted amount from bottom needs be monitored consistently. Another point narrow hang-ups by an adequate slot thickness. Hang-ups higher zones especially difficult resolve may lead unnoticed caving. following production phase, stopes de-stressed area behind slots. During always wall. They drawn-empty later after fully established. most important issue extract deposit economically. Additionally, prepared upcoming blasts. optimize extraction, uniform towards draw-points created. mentioned can addressed proper mine design draw strategy. parts include draw-point spacing, position, draw-bell layout. Further on, strategy must draw, guide ore down inclined stope, dilution. approached R&D empirical, numerical, analytical means.