Silver Mining Methods: High-Level Overview

What this topic covers

Surface and underground mining as alternative ways to access silver-bearing ore.

Core mine-to-refinery ideas

Mining method selection depends on orebody geometry, depth, rock conditions, scale and economics.

Surface mines remove overlying material to access ore from benches or pits.

Underground mines access deeper or narrower deposits through shafts, declines and excavations.

Important tradeoffs

Ore control, dilution and mining recovery affect the grade and tonnes reaching the plant.

Measurement and accounting

Mine haulage and development can dominate energy, infrastructure and operating requirements.

Lifecycle perspective

Blasting, ground support, equipment operation and underground procedures are intentionally excluded.