Most of the production mining will utilize the overhand long hole stope method, historically used at the Kiena Mine Complex. In cases where production mining is expected under previously mined and backfilled stopes, the underhand long hole stope method will be utilized.
Long hole production stopes will be mined on a longitudinal retreat basis. Stope empirical designs and mine sequencing were established for each of the three mining zones accounting for key factors influencing stability including rock mass quality, the orientation of the principal structures, in situ stress and the geometry of the stope. Cemented rockfill, rockfill and paste backfill were considered for supporting the rock mass after extraction. Mining recovery will be maximized and production stope cycle time optimized in the Kiena Deep A Zone by making paste backfill the predominant backfill type.
Both existing and new infrastructure are required to support the LOM plan. The key existing infrastructure includes the hoisting shaft extending to a depth of 930 m with an average hoisting capacity of 2,000 tpd, ore and waste pass systems, the underground crusher, underground ventilation raise and ramp system, service repair, fueling, refuge, process water, mine dewatering, compressed air and electrical facilities.
Haulage trucks and load haul dumps (LHD) are currently owned and operated by a contracted mining company for ore and waste rock haulage. Most other mobile equipment is a ........
