One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the

period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.
One of the key drivers for many significant developments in fundamental rock mechanics over the
period has been the mining industrys recognition of the economic returns of better understanding
and more rigorous application of the governing sciences embedded in its industrial operations and
processes. The result has been some notable advances in mining engineering practice, involving
improvements in mining methods in particular. For example, caving methods are now more widely
applied as understanding of their scientific basis has improved and their economic and operational
advantages have been realised. Whereas sublevel caving was once regarded in some places as a
method of marginal interest, the advent of very large scale sublevel caving, made possible in part
by improved drilling technology and in part by understanding of the governing rock mechanics, it
is now an attractive proposition for many orebodies. Similarly, block caving is now conducted
efficiently and reliably in orebody settings that would have been inconceivable two decades ago.
At the same time, methods such as overhand cut-and-fill stoping and shrink stoping have declined
in application, replaced in part by open stoping and bench-and-fill stoping, where large scale
mechanisation, improved backfill technology, reliable rock mass reinforcement of stope walls and
the intrinsic advantages of non-entry methods of working have led to superior economics and
enhanced operational safety.