Stages of MINING

Mine Exploration

7-10 years
Probing for minerals (exploration) is the first step in the mine
cycle. In the beginning stage of exploration, large areas of
land are evaluated by airborne surveys or geological surveys
of the Earths surface. After review of the data found, specific
areas are targeted for more in depth studies of the ground.
Involved studies maybe land clearing and mineral sampling
by prospectors and geologists. If valuable mineral possibilities
are anticipated a claim is staked, which is often then sold to
a larger mining company for further evaluation and
exploration.
The next stage of exploration is a thorough analysis of a
specific area. This regularly involves detailed mineral
sampling, detailed ground and geological surveys, mapping to
establish the size and shape of the mineral deposit, diamond
drilling (often at great depths) for more samples, and
environmental studies. Field camps can be set up at

Mine Development

5-10 years
Mine growth starts with advanced exploration and the evaluation, by
geologists, mining engineers and metallurgists, of the mines
potential. This stage involves very detailed drilling and the subtraction
of large samples. This phase usually requires the use of heavy
equipment and the construction of access roads. Processing tests are
done to assess mineral quality and quantity. Financial and minerals
market studies are carried out to conclude the mines economic
potential. Environmental assessments are undertaken and prefeasibility studies completed. The final step in the Evaluation phase is
a decision on whether or not a mining company will go ahead with full
scale mine development.
If they choose to proceed, mine planning will thenbegin. In order to
go ahead, a mining company must ensure enough resources are
available to develop the mine. Securing satisfactory capital is vital as
mine development is a very expensive proposal. At this time, the
necessary permits and agreements with governments are negotiated
as well as sales deals with potential clients. The mine and associated
buildings are designed and furtherresolvabilitystudies are done. Mine

Mine Operation

2-20 years
Mine operation is the third phase of the Mine Cycle
and involves theenrolment, hiring and training of
a wide range of personnel. Marketing and sales
activities are assumed and include client
establishment and servicing. At the mine itself,
production involves the extraction of ore,
separation of minerals, and removal of waste and
shipment of ore/minerals. If a mine is to expand
during its lifetime, more sampling, drilling,
planning, and mapping is are required.

Mine Closure

2-10 years
And finally the closure of a mine is a multi-stage process.
First theshut-down& decommissioning whichinvolves:
(the removal of equipment, the dismantling of
facilities, and the safe closure ofall mine workings.)
Then the reclamationinvolving earth work and site
restoration; including re-vegetation of waste rock disposal
areas.
The final stage of mine closure is monitoring, which
includes environmental testing and structural monitoring.

Mining Engineering Student

Ronipet II M. Lopez

REFERENCE:
http://careersinmining.com/blog/4-stages-of-thelife-cycle-of-a-mine-and-the-careers-associated/