It is difficult to navigate in the mining industry without a thorough knowledge of some terms used in this industry. The understanding of these terms does not only facilitate clear communication but also leads to clear understanding and increase in efficiency.
Below are some terms commonly used in the mining industry:
- Era: A large division of geologic time; the Precambrian era, for example.
- Erratic: Either a piece of visible gold or a large glacial boulder.
- Fuse: A cord-like substance used in the ignition of explosives. Black powder is entrained in the cord and, when lit, burns along the cord at a set rate. A fuse can be safely used to ignite a cap, which is the primer for an explosive.
- Active workings: Any place in a mine where miners are normally required to work or travel and which are ventilated and inspected regularly.
- Advance: Mining in the same direction, or order of sequence; first mining as distinguished from retreat.
- Agitation: In metallurgy, the act or state of being stirred or shaken mechanically, sometimes accomplished by the introduction of compressed air.
- ANFO: Acronym for ammonium nitrate and fuel oil, a mixture used as a blasting agent in many mines.
- Anode: A rectangular plate of metal cast in a shape suitable for refining by the electrolytic process.
- Assessment work: The amount of work, specified by mining law, that must be performed each year to retain legal control of mining claims.
- Auxiliary operations: All activities supportive of but not contributing directly to mining.
- Auxiliary ventilation: Portion of main ventilating current directed to face of dead-end entry by means of an auxiliary fan and tubing.
- Epithermal deposit: A mineral deposit consisting of veins and replacement bodies, usually in volcanic or sedimentary rocks, containing precious metals or, more rarely, base metals.
From “headframe” to “tailings,” the mining industry has its own unique language! Mastering these terms isn’t just for experts – it’s crucial for everyone connected to the sector. What’s a mining term that always makes you stop and think? Comment below!
Text rights: (A-Z of Mining Terms | Crux Investor, n.d.)
Source: A-Z of Mining Terms | Crux Investor. (n.d.). Retrieved May 22, 2025, from https://www.cruxinvestor.com/pages/a-z-of-mining-terms
