General Information
Abstract: This report provides information on a method of placer gold dredging. This dredging method differs from conventional bucket line gold dredging in that it uses a combination of land-based and floating dredging equipment. An excavator is used for digging the gravel, and a floating processing plant is used to process the gravel and stack tailings.
Using this combination of equipment offers many advantages. The cost of mining placer gravel is extremely economical; we have calculated mining costs at 90 cents per loose yard of gravel processed. This mining method also has environmental advantages. Total reclamation of the mined area is achievable and inexpensive. All water used in processing the gravel is recycled, so that there is no discharge of effluent to the watercourse.
The method has limitations. Only certain types of placer reserves can be mined. For example, the ground must be thawed to bedrock depth, and have a higher water table or the ability to hold a pond.
Design details and specifications for the equipment used in the mining system are discussed. General design information is given for each of the components used in the dredging system. We have provided detailed specifications for our own equipment as an example. Operating procedures are outlined; topics covered include equipment assembly and start-up, mining through a deposit, shut down procedures, and reclamation of the mined area.
Because of the current low gold price and rising operating costs, placer mine operators must explore new mining methods to remain profitable. As well, mining methods which minimize environmental impact must be adopted. This dredging method has the advantage of both lower production costs and minimal environmental disturbance. As well, reclamation is easily achieved and cost-effective.
Using this combination of equipment offers many advantages. The cost of mining placer gravel is extremely economical; we have calculated mining costs at 90 cents per loose yard of gravel processed. This mining method also has environmental advantages. Total reclamation of the mined area is achievable and inexpensive. All water used in processing the gravel is recycled, so that there is no discharge of effluent to the watercourse.
The method has limitations. Only certain types of placer reserves can be mined. For example, the ground must be thawed to bedrock depth, and have a higher water table or the ability to hold a pond.
Design details and specifications for the equipment used in the mining system are discussed. General design information is given for each of the components used in the dredging system. We have provided detailed specifications for our own equipment as an example. Operating procedures are outlined; topics covered include equipment assembly and start-up, mining through a deposit, shut down procedures, and reclamation of the mined area.
Because of the current low gold price and rising operating costs, placer mine operators must explore new mining methods to remain profitable. As well, mining methods which minimize environmental impact must be adopted. This dredging method has the advantage of both lower production costs and minimal environmental disturbance. As well, reclamation is easily achieved and cost-effective.
Authors: Fortymile Placers
Map Scale: 1 : 0
NTS Mapsheet(s): Yukon Wide
Citation: Fortymile Placers, 1993. Placer Gold Dredging Using an Excavator and Floating Processing Plant. Yukon Geological Survey, Report 1993-2(T).
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NTS Mapsheet(s): Yukon Wide
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