Efficient Excavation Network Design for Underground Mining

Today, we’re exploring a powerful new feature in K-MINE software—Excavation Network Design for underground mining.

This innovative tool streamlines project creation for horizontal underground workings at selected levels, using optimized stoping blocks as input data from the Stope Optimization module. For more insights, don’t forget to check our dedicated Stope Optimization video and subscribe for regular updates on K-MINE’s functionality.

Let’s begin by selecting the levels for excavation design. In our example, we chose three visible levels, but K-MINE offers total flexibility to select one, multiple, or all levels simultaneously. Next, we specify the mine shaft as the access point. The built-in algorithm can automatically determine the shaft location or allow manual input for existing shafts.

The next crucial step is defining the excavation direction. Using the intuitive Excavation Direction feature, the system suggests optimal excavation paths. Typically, the best choice is among the first three automated recommendations.

Following this, the project can be customized precisely according to your mining system and equipment requirements. K-MINE’s versatile settings include adjustable offsets, merging and splitting criteria for workings, entry angles, and various other detailed parameters, ensuring perfect alignment with operational specifics.

Once the configurations are finalized, your project is ready. Engineers retain complete flexibility, allowing them to modify, expand, and refine designs effortlessly at any stage. This automation eliminates time-consuming manual design tasks, significantly boosting productivity.

But there’s more. Easily integrate inclined workings by connecting mine levels through ore passes, automatically constructed within a few clicks. Similarly, ramps can be quickly built using predefined templates with gradient and turning radius settings, and future updates will enhance this functionality further by automating ramp creation.

In the final design phase, K-MINE generates detailed tunnel frameworks and accurately visualizes mine shafts. Lastly, optimized stoping blocks are loaded to confirm alignment and accuracy, ensuring seamless integration.

Ultimately, Excavation Network Design accelerates underground mine planning, combining efficiency, flexibility, and precision into one essential mining engineering tool.

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