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4 Stages of the Life Cycle of a Mine and the Careers Associated

Posted on July 4, 2012 by admin

There are many stages in the life cycle of a mine, with many types of activities and career opportunities within each. While the course of each mine’s development is unique, the general steps taken are similar.

STAGE 1: 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 Earth’s 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 whichever stage of exploration, but are likely to develop into larger and involve more people and equipment as exploration develops.

STAGE 2: MINE DEVELOPMENT – 5-10 years

Mine growth starts with advanced exploration and the evaluation, by geologists, mining engineers and metallurgists, of the mine’s 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 mine’s economic potential. Environmental assessments are undertaken and ‘pre-feasibility’ 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 then begin. 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 further resolvability studies are done. Mine closure and reclamation plans are prepared.

STAGE 3: MINE OPERATION – 2-20 years

 Mine operation is the third phase of the Mine Cycle and involves the enrolment, 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.

STAGE 4: MINE CLOSURE – 2-10 years

 And finally the closure of a mine is a multi-stage process.

First the shut-down & decommissioning which involves:

• the removal of equipment,
• the dismantling of facilities,
• and the safe closure of all mine workings.

 Then the reclamation involving 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.

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