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Abstract

Ore and waste rock flow through ore passes can be improved by reducing contributing factors to formation of hang-ups and by selection of the most suitable methods of bringing formed arches down. The prevailing factors contributing to the formation of hang-ups are consolidation and compaction of material and constriction in the ore passes. When rock material is too coarse in relation to the diameter of the ore pass, blocks of rock can wedge forming interlocked arches. When material is too fine, cohesive arches can form. Methods of removing hang-ups include the use of explosives or water. Explosives can be used to bomb the surface of the hang-ups, be inserted into the hang-ups or inserted through bore holes drilled to the hang-ups from the surrounding excavations. Water can be poured from above, jetted from below or injected at high pressure through bore holes. Depending on the type and location of hang-ups, the most suitable method can be selected.

Keywords

ORE PASSES MINING METHODS MATERIAL HANDLING ORE FLOW UNDERGROUND MINING

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Formation and removal of hang-ups in ore passes

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