NOUFERROUS METALLURGICAL EQUIPMENT

A world-class copper mine in Democratic Republic of the Congo requires the construction of six large ventilation shafts, each with a diameter of 6 m and depths ranging from 200 to 400 m, to meet the ventilation demands of underground mining operations. Traditional shaft excavation methods for large-diameter shafts commonly employ the conventional sinking technique, which presents significant safety risks, low construction efficiency, high engineering costs, and prolonged construction periods. To address these issues, this study systematically investigates shaft construction technologies for mine ventilation both domestically and internationally, drawing upon successful international cases utilizing large-diameter raise borers. Base on the specific rock conditions of the mine, an engineering solution was developed to conduct a barrel-type pile foundation and employing a large raise borer for reverse excavation of the shafts. Field implementation demonstrated that the proposed approach successfully achieved the intended engineering objectives, yielding favorable practical outcomes. This raise boring technique effectively mitigated safety risks, saved capital cost, shortened construction duration, and improved project quality, demonstrating significant economic benefits. The research findings provide valuable technical references and practical insights for similar shaft projects in domestic mining operations.