The UBC methodology was used to select the most suitable mining method for the Santa Elena mine, considering the shape of mineralization, review of geotechnical information (RMR and characteristics of the footwall and hanging wall), distribution of grades and the general characteristics of the mine (for example, width, dip and depth).
The UBC Method is a modification of Nicholas's (1981) approach. According to Nicholas, each extraction method is classified according to the parameters of geometric distribution, grade of mineralization, location (distance to surface) and the geomechanical characteristics of the hanging wall and footwall.
The steps in the selection process considered the following:
• Description of the geometry of the mineralized material.
• Geomechanical characteristics of the mineralization, hanging wall and foot wall.
The mining methods likely to be applicable at Santa Elena through the UBC assessment were:
• Sublevel stopping;
• Cut-and-fill;
• SquareSet;
• Open Pit;
• Top Slicing;
• Sublevel Caving;
• Shrinkage stopping;
• Block Caving;
• Room and Pillar;
• Longwall.
From the analysis developed by the UBC methodology, the results of the applicable mining methods are referential to the base parameters analysed. The Conventional Cut and Fill, Square Set and Shrinkage mining methods offer the best value for the deposit. The importance ........
