The development of an open-pit mine is very different from an underground mine. It will also require different equipment and experience. The deposits of porphyry are large, and some are close to the surface. They are mined with heavy equipment in open pits. However, some deposits may be suitable for conversion into large block caving underground mines. The vein type deposit is often small, goes to great depths and can be mined using underground equipment.
The processing of the material that is mined is dependent on the type of mineral. Construction of the crushing and processing plant is based on testing, flow chart and design as determined by the FS. Understanding the mineralogy, metallurgical tests for grinding, crushing and recovering the metals Richard Warke west Vancouver as well as treatment/management of tailings are the first steps in processing the ore.
The FS will also include environmental aspects, which have determined the habitat of the environment and its long-term effects. The FS should also include the amount and quality of ore, waste and tailings to be mined as well as the possibility to produce acid and other harmful metals.
The FS also includes the quantity and amount of water to be used in operation, and if the water needs long-term treatment. The FS is required by some countries as a basis to submit plans in order to obtain mining permits.
The Environmental Management System is a part of the Management System and contains organizational procedures, environmental responsibilities and processes. It will assist the mining company in complying with environmental regulations and identifying technical and economic advantages, as well as ensuring that corporate environmental policy are implemented and followed.
At current mining sites, companies that have the economic and technological flexibility to implement comprehensive EMSs are doing so, but they need input from government, international environmental organisations, educational institutions, and companies themselves.
The mine planning process includes decisions about workforce housing, which affects not only the quality of life for employees but also their relationships and impacts on existing communities. The type of accommodation for the workforce will vary depending on whether it’s a community-based mine camp (that is, integrated into existing communities or purpose-built as company towns) or a commuter mine camp (fly in/fly out), and the distance from the mine.
Quality of accommodations is important for employee satisfaction, motivation and morale. It is important for productivity, safety and recruitment, as well as retention. This is especially true in light of the current human resource crisis. Accommodation strategies can have a significant impact on the sustainability of communities that are located near a mine.
The decisions about employee housing can be more difficult when mines are located in isolated areas or face severe economic, political, and social adversity. Mine companies will have to consider the complex local planning and take into account the environmental, social and economic implications.
Surface mining refers to a wide range of activities in which soil, rock and mineral deposits are removed. Surface mining is estimated to be responsible for more than two thirds of all mineral production in the world. Mining companies prefer surface mining because it is more economical to remove the topography to reach the minerals beneath than to dig tunnels or shafts underground.