A mine survey is used to measure, represent and manage data associated with a mining operation. It is a precise way to create accurate measurements and recording of mine workings.
This guide explores the history of mining, the history of surveying and why volumetric surveying is particularly important to the current mining industry.
The history of mining and surveying
Both mining and surveying are disciplines that date back to ancient times. The Egyptians are renowned for their mathematical prowess, which can be evidenced in one of the first recorded instances of surveying when they created legal borders along the fertile banks of the River Nile.
The Greeks also played a huge part in the development of the surveying industry with their fundamental development of the science of geometry.
They were notorious for their understanding of the astronomical relativity that exists between the position of the stars and determining measurements on the ground. The Greeks invented the first surveying instrument to reflect this correlation: the dioptre.
The dioptre is considered the ancient predecessor of the theodolite, which became the total station – a crucial piece of equipment without which supports surveyors in their role today.
Mining was championed by the Roman Empire, which used advanced methods and techniques to extract complex minerals like gold and silver. The Rio Tinto copper mines in Spain are evidence of their extraordinary understanding of locating and extracting these natural resources – those mines are still in use today.
What do mine surveyors do?
Mine surveyors are responsible for measuring, representing and managing data associated with a mining operation. They must consistently plan the direction of work taking place underground and maintain records on collected data.
Once the substance has been mined, mine surveyors use volumetric surveying to accurately estimate the volume of a stockpile.
This information can be used to conduct volume calculations, both before work takes place – to accurately cost the work – and afterwards, to check that the excavated substance is of the correct volume.
What is mine surveying?
Today, mine surveying is its own science. Mine surveyors use modern total stations fitted with electronic data storage systems and laser sighting, as well as Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) to offer unparalleled accuracy and reliability.
There are a number of different surveying techniques used in the mining industry, including:
- Terrestrial laser scanning
- Airborne laser scanning
- Portable laser scanning
- Aerial photogrammetry
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
At Lucion, a Trimble TX8 scanner for stockpiles which are unsafe to work on. We also use drone technology – as an alternative to and in conjunction with traditional volumetric mine surveying methods – to deliver a highly accurate service.
Our quarry surveys use cutting-edge technology to carry out safe surveying, eliminating health and safety risks.
Contact us to discuss your mining project here or call us on 0345 5040 303.
