Borehole mining

Borehole Mining (BHM) is a remote operated method of extraction (mining) of mineral resources through boreholes based on in-situ conversion of ores into a mobile form (slurry) by means of high pressure water jetting (hydraulicking).

This process is carried-out from a land surface, open pit floor, underground mine or floating vessel through pre-drilled boreholes.

[4] The tool consists of at least two concentric pipes which are forming two hydraulic channels—one for pumping down a high-pressure working agent (water) and second for delivering pregnant slurry back to the surface.

The jet cuts and loosens ore producing a slurry which is pumped back to the surface by the Eductor.

Borehole mining is also used in exploration, oil, gas and water stimulation, underground storage construction, environmental applications and a few more.

Borehole mining tool and technology principle schematic
Borehole mining unit in operation.
This borehole mining tool working at the edge of the open pit is a clear illustration of main advantages of BHM over conventional mining methods. Photo courtesy by Borehole Mining International, Inc.