Room-and-pillar meaning

Room-and-pillar is a mining method where pillars of ore are left standing to support the roof of the excavation while the rest of the material is removed.


Room-and-pillar definitions

Word backwards rallip-dna-moor
Part of speech Room-and-pillar is a compound noun.
Syllabic division room-and-pillar room-and-pil-lar
Plural The plural of room-and-pillar is rooms-and-pillars.
Total letters 13
Vogais (3) o,a,i
Consonants (6) r,m,n,d,p,l

Room-and-Pillar Mining Method

Room-and-pillar is a common method used in underground mining for extracting coal, salt, and other minerals. It is named after the system of leaving behind pillars of rock to support the roof of the mine as the ore is extracted.

How Does Room-and-Pillar Work?

In room-and-pillar mining, horizontal tunnels are excavated into the mineral seam. These tunnels are known as "rooms." The rooms are then connected by parallel passages called "pillars," which are left to support the overhead rock. The size of the rooms and pillars can vary depending on the geology of the deposit and the desired rate of extraction.

Benefits of Room-and-Pillar Mining

One of the key advantages of room-and-pillar mining is its versatility. This method can be used in both hard rock and soft rock mining operations. It also allows for selective extraction of the ore, meaning that less waste rock needs to be processed. Additionally, room-and-pillar mining is considered safer than other underground mining methods, as the pillars provide structural support.

Challenges of Room-and-Pillar Mining

Despite its benefits, room-and-pillar mining does have some challenges. Over time, the pillars may start to fail, leading to roof collapses. This can pose a safety risk to miners working underground. Additionally, as the ore is removed, the pillars may need to be extracted as well, which can result in subsidence at the surface.

Overall, room-and-pillar mining is a widely used method for underground mineral extraction. Its combination of safety, selectivity, and adaptability makes it a preferred choice for many mining operations.


Room-and-pillar Examples

  1. The room-and-pillar mining method is commonly used in coal extraction.
  2. In construction, room-and-pillar is a technique for creating underground spaces.
  3. The room-and-pillar system provides structural support in certain types of architecture.
  4. Room-and-pillar ventilation is essential for maintaining air quality in mines.
  5. Some caves are formed through a process similar to room-and-pillar mining.
  6. Room-and-pillar farming involves creating distinct areas for different crops.
  7. The room-and-pillar approach is used in urban planning to maximize space efficiency.
  8. Architects often consider room-and-pillar designs for stability in large structures.
  9. Room-and-pillar geology studies the distribution of rock formations underground.
  10. Room-and-pillar construction helps reduce the risk of collapses in certain types of soil.


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  • Updated 08/05/2024 - 01:03:39