EVALUATION OF THE LOAD LIFTING SYSTEM IN THE SHRINKAGE MINE AT THE SERRA MINE

Abstract

This undergraduate thesis aims to evaluate the load lifting system employed in the Shrinkage Stoping method at the Serra Mine, belonging to the company Serabi Gold-Chapleau, located in the municipality of Altamira, state of Pará. The research seeks to understand the operational efficiency, limitations, and opportunities for improvement in the vertical movement of materials and equipment in the context of underground mining. The Shrinkage Stoping method is characterized by the use of fragmented ore accumulated in the stope as a working platform, which requires appropriate lifting techniques to ensure safety and productivity. The analysis of data collected in the field and operational records of the mine allowed the identification of advantages and disadvantages of the current system, especially in mines with different vein inclinations. The results indicate that, although the system provides agility in mines with dips close to 90°, it presents significant operational difficulties in veins with smaller inclinations, demanding more time for the construction of the lifting channel and increasing the risk of accidents due to falling material. It is concluded that the adoption of planning and assembly standardization practices, combined with ergonomic and safety improvements, can optimize the process, reducing mobilization time and increasing system reliability.