Process role
Before mining advances, soils and suitable reclamation materials are salvaged.
How the system fits together
Ore moves through large material-handling systems to water-based extraction and froth treatment.
Environmental and reclamation context
Mining disturbs large areas and creates tailings, so landform design, water recovery and progressive reclamation are built into the mine plan.
What to keep in mind
Surface mining is used only where deposits are shallow enough for economic excavation.
High-level industrial education only. Oil sands mines, thermal wells, extraction plants, upgraders and tailings facilities are hazardous regulated operations; this site does not provide operating setpoints, chemical recipes or equipment procedures.