SQUARE SET STOPPING METHOD || Artificially Supported Method || Metal Mining

Summary

This video showcases mining techniques using the square set method, where timber supports the roof and walls while ore is extracted. The process involves drilling, blasting, and removing ore, with water running through drill steel to cool, lubricate, and control dust. Timber, sourced from the Black Hills, must withstand significant force. The video also highlights the massive underground structure of the mine, where miners work by drilling upwards, causing ore to fall down to lower levels. This method relies on the strategic use of timber and precise drilling for efficient ore extraction.

Takeaways

• 😀 The square set method is used for mining, involving timbering to support the roof and side walls during shrinkage stop mining.
• 😀 Miners work under the pillar in the mine, following the same process as the shrinkage stop method, which involves drilling, blasting, and ore removal.
• 😀 Water is used in the mining process, flowing through a rifle-drilled hole in the drill steel to cool, lubricate, and control dust.
• 😀 The ore is transported to the loading level below as it's drilled and blasted from the mine.
• 😀 Timber used in the mine must be strong to withstand the pounding from the mining process, often consisting of tough one-foot-square timber from the Black Hills.
• 😀 A model of the mine shows it as a massive underground structure reinforced with sturdy timber.
• 😀 The process of drilling and blasting allows the miners to work higher up, while the ore falls downward to be collected below.
• 😀 The mining operation relies on careful planning to ensure that timbering supports both the roof and side walls effectively.
• 😀 The water in the mining process serves three main purposes: cooling the equipment, lubricating the drills, and controlling dust.
• 😀 As the mining progresses, the miners go up in the mine, and the ore naturally falls down for easier collection.

Q & A

What is the square set method used in mining?

The square set method involves timbering to support the roof and side walls of a mine during the shrinkage stop mining process. It helps remove the ore and maintain stability in the mining environment.

How does water function during mining in this method?

Water runs through a rifle-drilled hole in the center of the drill steel, performing three key tasks: cooling the equipment, lubricating the process, and preventing dust buildup.

What role does timber play in this mining process?

Timber is used to support the mine's roof and side walls during the shrinkage stop mining method. It must be strong enough to withstand the pounding caused by the mining activities.

What material is used for timbering, and why?

The timber used is tough, one-foot-square timber from the Black Hills. This material is chosen for its strength to endure the constant pressure and pounding in the mine.

What happens to the ore during the mining process?

The miners drill, blast, and remove the ore. As they mine upwards, the ore falls down to the loading level below, where it is collected.

How does the mining process affect the structure of the mine?

The mining process gradually alters the structure of the mine by removing ore and causing the roof and walls to shift. This is why strong timbering is essential for stability.

What is the purpose of the drill steel in the mining process?

The drill steel is used to create holes for blasting and to allow water to pass through. The water cools and lubricates the drill while also suppressing dust.

How does the ore move through the mine during the process?

As the miners drill and blast the ore, it falls downward to the loading level below, which is part of the extraction process.

What is the role of the men working under the pillars in the mine?

The men working under the pillars are responsible for continuing the mining process by drilling, blasting, and removing the ore, all while being supported by the timber structure.

Why is timber strength important in the square set method?

Timber strength is crucial because it must withstand the intense pressure and impact caused by mining activities, such as the movement of ore and the weight of the mine's structure.