Selective Blast Mining~(TM) of narrow reef ore bodies

摘要

Selective Blast Mining (SBM~(TM)) is a form of "Resue Mining in one blast". SBM~(TM) has become possible with the advent of millisecond blasting techniques. SBM~(TM) works and can have a major impact on mining productivity. Marginal mines with narrow reefs, or difficult hanging wall conditions can be made to operate profitably. SBM~(TM) also allows a higher degree of mechanization in the stope face. The method is applicable to narrow ore bodies that are both flat and steeply dipping. Commercial trials were conducted in Platinum, Chrome and Gold mines in South Africa, and recently in Gold mines in Australia. Tests have been done in both shallow mines and at depths of 2600 meters below surface. Some 50 000 shots have already been fired using SBM~(TM) techniques.