Box cutting is the first step in mining, creating a rectangular cut in the earth’s surface. It is used for extracting coal and other materials. Workers use a dragline excavator to create the cut, extract the ore, and fill in the trench. Shoring techniques are used to support the trenches, and box cutting is a quick and easy method of exploring underground. However, it also poses risks, such as collapse and ventilation issues.
A box cut serves as the first step in excavating most mining areas. It consists of a single rectangular cut made in the surface of the earth, forming a box shape. Mining is mainly used for the extraction of coal but it can also be applied to other types of materials ranging from metals to minerals. Depending on where these materials are located in relation to the surface of the earth, a box cut may be the only excavation method used on a project or it may be the first of many methods employed.
In basic or surface mining, workers begin by using a dragline excavator to create a box cut along the length of the site. The earth and rocks removed from this cut are set aside above ground for later reuse. The workers then enter the trench created by the box cut and extract all available ore and ore. Once the trench has been stripped, soil and rocks are used to fill in the box cut. Workers can continue this process throughout the terrain, cutting and filling in one strip at a time before moving on to the next.
Box cutting can also be employed for mining coal that is on a steep slope towards the surface of the earth. During this process, workers begin by creating a box cut deep enough to reach the beginning of the coal pile. This box cut acts as an entry point for deeper extraction. For example, a well can be drilled from inside the trench to the base of the coal pile. Working this type of trench brings workers closer to the materials they are extracting and often results in greater soil stability and security than working from the land surface.
To support the trenches created by these cuts, workers rely on a variety of shoring techniques. Rock bolts are used to secure trench walls into the surrounding rock or soil, which helps prevent collapse. Wire mesh can be used to cover these walls to reduce the risk of rock or dirt sliding onto the workers below. In long-term mining projects, trench walls can be capped with shotcrete to provide maximum strength and stability. On very deep cofferdams, the trench walls should slope outward to further mitigate the risk.
Compared to other mining techniques, box cutting is relatively quick and easy. Unlike more complex methods, it only requires a large excavator and basic shoring supplies. It also serves as an effective method of exploring underground before investing in other equipment.
Despite its many benefits, mining is also associated with a number of potential risks or limitations. Even on very shallow trenches, a collapse could easily kill workers. Shoring and support should be employed to reduce this risk. Ventilation is also a major concern, particularly as these trenches get deeper and deeper.
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