Three major mining technologies help copper mining

Copper, as a globally significant industrial metal, plays a pivotal role in economic development and industrial construction through its extraction and utilisation. With the sustained growth of the global economy, the demand for copper continues to rise, presenting new challenges to the efficiency and sustainability of copper ore resource extraction.

Underground mining techniques include open-stoping mining, caving mining, and backfilling mining, among others, which are widely applied in underground mining operations.

The open-stoping method is suitable for various geological conditions with good elasticity and adaptability, achieving ore recovery by forming goaf areas.

The caving method is suitable for ore bodies with significant thickness, effectively reducing mining costs by inducing natural collapse of the ore body to obtain ore.

The backfilling method is used to control ground pressure and maintain mine stability by filling goaf areas during mining, suitable for regions with high environmental protection requirements.

Open-pit mining technology is primarily suitable for surface or shallow ore bodies with advantages such as high mining efficiency and low costs, involving the removal of overburden and direct mining of the ore body.

With technological advancements, these processes are continuously optimised to meet the specific needs of different mines, such as the introduction of automated equipment, optimised blasting designs, and improved backfill material performance. As an emerging field, deep-sea mining technology also demonstrates significant potential and challenges.

Application of Underground Mining Technology

Drilling and Blasting Technology With the advancement of underground mining technology, drilling and blasting operations have transitioned from manual labour to automation and intelligence. For example, the use of fully computerised three-arm drilling rigs has improved operational efficiency, reduced labour intensity, and lowered operational risks. Through precise design and intelligent blasting systems, precise blasting technology has significantly improved the safety and efficiency of underground mining, achieving optimised blasting energy consumption and intelligent control of the blasting process.

Application of open-pit mining technology

Open-pit mining technology is widely applied in the extraction of copper mines and other surface or shallow ore bodies, offering numerous advantages such as high efficiency and low cost. Modern open-pit mining technology, by introducing automated equipment and optimising blasting design, has improved resource recovery rates and mining efficiency. For example, the development and application of large mobile crushing units have made transportation and crushing processes in open-pit mines more efficient, reducing ore transportation costs. The application of digital mining and remote monitoring technology enables mine managers to monitor production status in real time, adjust mining plans promptly, and ensure the continuity and stability of production.

Application of deep-sea mining technology

Deep-sea mining technology in emerging fields holds significant potential for copper resource development. Deep-sea regions are rich in mineral resources such as polymetallic nodules, cobalt-rich crusts, and polymetallic sulphides. Deep-sea mining technology is evolving from concept to practical application alongside advancements in deep-sea exploration technology.