Productivity of a Continuous Mining System for Block Caving Mines

Abstract

Block caving mining is one of the most cost-effective underground mining methods. The method has particular relevance in the Chilean mining industry, where approximately 40% of the Chilean national copper production comes from block caving mines. Caterpillar (CAT) and the National Copper Corporation of Chile (Codelco) have developed the Rock Flow Continuous Mining System as a consequence of the industry needing to increase productivity. The new system aims to raise productivity from 0.4 to 1 ton/day m2, by using continuous haulage technology instead of the conventional use of load, haul, dump (LHD) machine.