Mechanization of underground mining: a quick look backward and forward

Mine mechanization, especially the mechanization of underground hard rock mines provides a large potential for reduced costs and improved profitability. This paper examines a number of successful developments mechanizing underground mine excavation, including raises, shafts, tunnels, and stopes. It then examines mechanization developments, which are under way, and others which are not yet being developed. A look back at mine mechanization projects that have failed is included as a perspective when considering projects for the future. Factors influencing the development of mine mechanization are reviewed, as well as some of the factors that will be required for successful mechanization in the future. It appears that the development of mechanization for fundamentally new mining systems will require complex joint ventures involving mining companies, equipment suppliers, governments, and academic partners working together on a long-term commitment. These technical joint ventures will require long-term commitments of capital to produce the technology that will be required for mechanizing the underground mines of the future. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.