Article
Tar Sand Mining in Canada - a Technological Challenge
Erzmetall: Journal for Exploration, Mining and Metallurgy
Abstract
The deposits consist of 180 multiplied by 10⁹ m³ bitumen in situ and cover an area of 70,000 km². Only 7% are classified for open pit mining. The climate with temperatures of minus 45 degree C during the winter and plus 35 degree C in summer, wind, ice and snow are a challenge for men and machine. The abrasiveness and oily characteristics of the sand cause material problems which could only be overcome through research and development programs. Two companies are presently mining in open pits. Both operators have to move high volumes of sand, bitumen and water. The mining methods are different - in one case using bucket wheel excavaters and in the other a combination of dragline and bucket wheel reclaimers. Both methods are described.
Department(s)
Mining Engineering
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 1983 Padagogika Zentrale, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
1-1-1983
Publication Date
01 Jan 1983
Disciplines
Citation Information
F. G. Boehm and Tad S. Golosinski. "Tar Sand Mining in Canada - a Technological Challenge" Erzmetall: Journal for Exploration, Mining and Metallurgy (1983) ISSN: 0044-2658 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/tad-golosinski/4/