An ore pass is a vertical or near-vertical opening, which is created during underground mining operations to transfer materials. It is designed based on the gravitational force between different ground levels, to provide a convenient material handling system and reduce haulage distances.
Ore passes are used to drop mined ores into loading points or underground bins. The ores can be hoisted to the surface from the loading points. Unloading of ores from the passes can be carried out using underflow or side discharge chutes.
Ore passes are developed using two conventional methods: the mechanical method, which uses a raised borer, and drill and blast methods.
There are two major types of ore pass systems: flow-through and full ore pass systems. In both cases, muck is dumped into the ore pass and transferred to an underground stockpile via a secondary transport method, such as a conveyor or rail car.
In a full ore pass system, a certain level of material is maintained within the ore always pass. Although there is an increased level of hang-ups risk, seismicity near ore pass walls and the level of ore pass degradation are minimized.
In the flow-through ore pass system, the material is allowed to flow down the pass. As a result, hang-ups are less likely to occur in this system.
Imagine a hidden, vertical highway for ore deep underground! An ore pass is a vital component in many mines, but what exactly is its role in moving mined material efficiently? Share your insights on this ingenious use of gravity!
Text rights : (AzoMining, 2014)
Source: Ore Pass—Mining Fundamentals. (2014, March 26). AZoMining. https://www.azomining.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=1280
