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Designing an Eco-Friendly Tunnel for Iron Ore Transport

A leading iron ore producer needed to access its mine without disturbing a protected habitat home to chimpanzees, requiring an underground transport solution.

Sound Mining conducted a geotechnical study, designed a 7km tunnel, and evaluated excavation methods, recommending a Tunnel Boring Machine. This ensured efficient ore transport while preserving the environment and integrating with national infrastructure.

The project required
innovative environmental solutions to ensure safe ore transport while protecting critical natural habitats.

Challenges: Environmentally Safe Access to Ore Transport Infrastructure

Concern 1MINIMISE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

Develop an underground solution that avoided disturbing a protected habitat.

Concern 2ENSURE EFFICIENT ORE TRANSPORT:

Establish a seamless connection between the mine, national infrastructure, and export ports.

Concern 3SELECT THE RIGHT EXCAVATION METHOD:

Evaluate the suitability of a TBM for tunnel construction based on geotechnical conditions.

A comprehensive solution was needed to balance environmental protection with efficient ore transportation requirements.

Geology

Solution: Tunnel and Infrastructure Design with Geotechnical Feasibility Study

Technical expertise in underground construction and environmental planning

Sound Mining developed a comprehensive solution to meet both environmental and operational requirements.

The Process Involved

GEOTECHNICAL STUDY icon
TUNNEL DESIGN icon
INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING icon
FEASIBILITY EVALUATION icon

GEOTECHNICAL STUDY

A thorough assessment of rock conditions to determine TBM suitability.

Outcome:

Sound Mining's design ensured environmentally conscious and efficient ore transport.

This resulted in:

  • Engineered a complete tunnel system with a final conveying mechanism to transport ore efficiently from higher to lower elevations.
  • Integrated mining logistics with national infrastructure to support export operations.
  • Provided a fully developed design with supporting infrastructure, ensuring sustainable and practical execution.
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Partner with Sound Mining for proven mineral expertise

With a track record of delivering tailored solutions, Sound Mining provides the technical expertise needed to overcome complex mineral challenges. From resource estimation to operational efficiency, our team ensures accurate data, streamlined processes, and optimised planning.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your operations.
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