WELCOME TO ICaRN

The International Caving Research Network (ICaRN) is a multidisciplinary research network formed at the University of British Columbia (Vancouver, Canada) that promotes an end-to-end approach to improve the productivity of block and panel cave mines and aimed at maintaining Canada’s competitiveness in the international mining industry. The research network includes a group of representatives from industry and academia covering the fields of geology, cave mining, geomechanics, and mineral processing.

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Research Focus

The research at ICaRN is focused on the concept that value can be realized by an integrated approach to orebody knowledge, mine design and operation.


This is done in three stages. The first is better characterization of the material reporting to the drawpoints. Secondly, measurement of the variation in the metal content that is delivered from drawpoints through the use of scanners and sensors at various points in the ore flow system. Finally, bulk ore sorting systems offer flexibility and control by allowing classification of waste, low grade and mill grade streams in real time.


The overall objective of the research is to enhance value of caving mine projects/operations. All research projects are required to demonstrate their potential for ‘healthier mine’ with improved safety and productivity.

CAVE-TO-MILL

Cave‐to‐Mill involving the integration of processes to enhance mine and mill performance and bulk sorting to provide selectivity options and reliable feed to the process plant.

CAVE MINE DESIGN

Cave Mine Design to facilitate effective and efficient underground sorting systems and improved footprint reliability.

MEASUREMENT TECHNOLOGIES

New Measurement Technologies through implementation of advanced instrumentation to monitor drawpoint muck grade, cave loads, and excavation displacements and pillar bulking.

HAZARD MANAGEMENT

Strategies to more effectively monitor, forecast and mitigate undercut and extraction‐level hazards such as rock bursting and mud rush, to improve safety and production reliability by reducing interruptions.

International Caving Research Network

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