METHOD OF MINING OF KIMBERLITE PIPES Russian patent published in 2000 - IPC

FIELD: mining; applicable in crystal-saving technology of diamond mining in working of permafrost kimberlites under extreme conditions of the North. SUBSTANCE: mining of kimberlite pipe is carried out under crystal- saving conditions by separating of rock mass into elementary blocks with help of shaped charges; breakage of separated blocks by high-pressure hydraulic action through drilled holes; loosening of mined bulk in faces by excavator with active working member; final breakage of mined bulk in crushers and discharge into sump; conversion of produced material into pulp and transportation of mined bulk in brine medium to concentrating mill and ore store. EFFECT: increased yield of jewelry diamonds by 50%, reduced expenditures for mined bulk transportation from deep pits by a factor of 2-3. 5 dwg