One of the most common means of transporting materials in the mining industry (open-cast and underground mines) is by conveyor belt. This can be a costly method, but it can be adapted to a number of contexts. Let’s explore the different contexts in which belt conveyors are used in the mining industry.
Surface mining
In open-pit mining, conveyor belts transport materials from the mine face to the processing plant, often spanning several miles. These systems offer an efficient solution for handling large volumes of overburden—the material that lies above the valuable ore.
Underground mining
In underground mining, conveyor belts are employed to transport ore from deep within the mine up to the surface. They must operate within tight spaces and handle steep gradients, and are often designed to be fire-resistant to mitigate the risk posed by flammable gases commonly found in underground settings.
Crushing and screening
Once extracted, mined materials typically undergo processing—such as crushing and screening—before being transported. Conveyor belts used in these facilities must be capable of handling sharp, heavy materials and are often reinforced with rubber or metal surfaces to withstand significant wear and tear.
