Why are belt conveyors used in deep open-pit mines?

In deep open-pit mines, belt conveyors are increasingly utilized as an alternative to traditional truck haulage as pits reach significant depths—some exceeding 800 metres (2,600 feet).1

The primary reasons for their use include:

• Operational Efficiency: Conveyors provide the advantage of continuous transport, which is often preferable for maintaining high-volume production.23
• Adaptability: They can traverse difficult terrain more easily than rail or truck systems and can be extended as mining operations progress.2
• Capacity: Systems equipped with wide belts and high operating speeds can achieve enormous capacities, ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 tons per hour.2

However, implementing belt conveyors in open-pit environments typically requires in-pit crushing of run-of-mine material before it can be transported. While standard conveyors are generally limited to a maximum incline of 18°, specialized conveying techniques are currently under development to allow for more direct transport up the steep sides of pit walls.1