Method and apparatus for creating a void for underground mining
AssigneeEvolution Resource Group Pty Ltd
InventorGregory MOORE
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method and an apparatus for creating a void, low-density fill or combination of void and low-density fill for underground mining having at least one module of formwork to be positioned in an open slope of an underground mine prior to carrying out a backfilling operation.
Claims18
An apparatus for creating a void, low-density fill or combination of void and low-density fill for underground mining comprising at least one module of formwork to be positioned in an open stope of an underground mine prior to carrying out a backfilling operation.
A method for creating a void, low-density fill or combination of void and low-density fill for underground mining, the method comprising the following steps:
- placing an apparatus comprising at least one module of formwork in an open stope prior to the stope being backfilled, wherein the apparatus creates a void or low-density fill into which fragmented ore can expand during at least one subsequent blasting operation for a second or subsequent panel;
- and
- maintaining the void or low-density fill until blasting operations occur whereupon the void or low-density fill is caused to collapse to accommodate fragmented ore generated during the at least one subsequent blasting operation.
A method for creating a void, low-density fill or combination or void and low-density fill for underground mining, the method comprising the following steps:
- assembling at least two or more modules of formwork together to form an assembled length of formwork for an apparatus of a desired length required for an open stope;
- installing the apparatus in an open stope and securing it in place prior to the stope being backfilled, wherein the apparatus creates a void or low-density fill into which fragmented ore can expand during at least one subsequent blasting operation for a second or subsequent panel;
- and
- maintaining the void or low-density fill until blasting operations occur whereupon the void or low-density fill is caused to collapse to accommodate fragmented ore generated during the at least one subsequent blasting.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.