Rail-mounted systems offer fast transport of all materials and equipment over relatively long distances in underground mines. The efficiency of rail transport is critically dependent on high standards of roadway grading, preparation, track installation, and effective water drainage. Conversely, poor conditions (e.g., insufficient sleepers, inadequate surveying, lack of good ballast) lead to unreliable tracks, derailments, and slow operation (Matsui, n.d.).
Railways offer the advantage of transporting large loads at a low cost. For instance, in modern coal mines, rail haulage is often used for equipment and supplies, while conveyors primarily transport the coal (MNG 230, n.d.).
Moreover, reduced ventilation requirements are a significant benefit of rail haulage, potentially leading to fewer or smaller fans, and less need for extensive ventilation shafts and drifts (as electric rail doesn’t produce diesel fumes). Additionally, rail haulage can enable smaller heading cross-sections, contributing to lower tunneling costs.
In high-capacity hard rock mines (primarily copper, gold, and nickel), underground rail haulage is predominantly used in their production schemes, employing systems capable of moving 20,000 to 160,000 tonnes per day (t/d) of material.
Due to recent technological developments, haulage with trains has gained renewed importance, not only technologically but also economically and environmentally. Particularly regarding productivity, reliability, automation, and maintenance, rail haulage systems are proven and well-suited for some of the world’s largest underground mining operations (Editors, 2016).
Why are railways used in underground mines, offering unique advantages for moving massive loads and ensuring efficiency? Share your insights!
Reference:
-
5.1.2b: Mine Trucks, Haul Trucks, and Rail (Trains) | MNG 230: Introduction to Mining Engineering. (n.d.). Retrieved July 24, 2025, from https://www.e-education.psu.edu/mng230/node/679
-
Editors, E. & M. (2016, May 11). Opportunities and Challenges of Rail Haulage Systems in Current Mining Operations. E & MJ. https://www.e-mj.com/features/opportunities-and-challenges-of-rail-haulage-systems-in-current-mining-operations/
-
Matsui, K. (n.d.). Underground Mining Transportation Systems. CIVIL ENGINEERING.
