Innovative Mining Solutions
The thermal fragmentation mining method is ideal for mineralised structures with widths of 30 cm to 1
metre. Depending on the width of the precious metal vein, the thermal fragmentation unit can be set to
extract a specific mining corridor. Here are some of the benefits of the mining method:
GREATLY REDUCES DILUTION
The extraction method produces highly concentrated ore which results in 400% to 500% less dilution
compared to shrinkage mining methods. There is no wall damage caused by blast vibrations.
SIGNIFICANT COST SAVINGS RELATED TO ORE HANDLING, ORE TREATMENT
Since less rock is extracted, important savings are realised throughout the entire chain of production.
The compact size of the ore (0 - 13 mm) and concentration of the material brought to the processing
plant increases the production capacity of existing installations and output of ounces.
COMPLETELY MECHANISED
Thermal fragmentation mining method requires a 3 person team per unit to carry out entire extraction
process. The mining method is fully mechanised reducing the risk of physical injury traditionally
observed in labour intensive shrinkage mining methods.
LESSENS THE IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT
Since less waste rock is extracted and development is performed directly into ore, the thermal
fragmentation method produces significantly less mining waste (1:5). Therefore, fewer chemical
products per ounce mined are needed and fewer alterations are made to the terrain (smaller tailings and
waste piles)
COST EFFECTIVE BULK SAMPLING
Many exploration projects, especially multiple vein deposits, are very difficult to evaluate with
diamond drill holes and traditional bulk samplings necessitate major field preparation work that are
costly. However, the thermal fragmentation mining process requires minimal space to bring in the
equipment, minimal stripping of waste rock, and dilution is significantly diminished. The resulting
surface environment impacts are minimal and preparation costs are kept as low as possible.
LOW COST SLOT RAISE
By using the thermal fragmentation mining method, large diameter holes (30 - 90 cm) can be quickly
created and act as large diameter cuts when blasting drop-raises. These large cuts greatly reduce the
occurrence of rock freezing following a blast and reduce the amount of explosives needed to break the
rock, significantly lowering costs per meter and reducing the time needed to perform the work.
