Copper mining

Underground copper mining refers to the process of obtaining copper metal by digging and extracting copper ore from underground deposits. Compared with open-pit mining, this mining method requires a series of engineering operations underground, including digging mines, building passages, tunnel excavation, etc.
The following are the general steps for underground copper mining:
Exploration: Detailed geological exploration is required before a decision is made to proceed with underground copper mining. This includes geological surveys, drilling and sample analysis to determine the location, size, shape and grade of the ore bodies.
Mine Development: Choose a suitable location for mine development. A mine shaft is a vertical or diagonal passage that provides access to an underground ore body. Common types of mines include shafts and inclined shafts.
Tunnel excavation: Excavation of horizontal or diagonal tunnels in a mine to reach the ore body. These tunnels were used for mining, transporting ore and providing ventilation.
Ore mining: Use blasting, tunnel boring machines, loaders and other equipment to mine ore. Ore is usually transported underground through tunnels to the surface or processing facilities.
Ventilation Systems: Underground environments require effective ventilation systems to ensure air circulation, eliminate toxic gases, and provide a safe working environment for employees.
Support: In order to maintain the stability of tunnels and roadways, support measures are required, such as setting up brackets, shotcrete curing, etc.
Hydrogeological Management: Underground mines may face groundwater influx and require measures to manage and drain groundwater.
Transportation: Transporting mined ore from underground to the surface or to a processing facility via conveyor belts, rails, trucks, etc.
Processing and refining: In surface processing facilities, the ore undergoes crushing, flotation, smelting and other process steps to extract copper metal.
Underground copper mining often requires a high degree of engineering and technical knowledge to ensure a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly mining process. At the same time, underground mining is generally more expensive because of the extensive underground work required.