Sweeping & Vamping

Sweeping and vamping is the cleaning and extracting the remaining ore from a mined-out area or stope. It usually involves the use of water jets, vacuum cleaners, or manual tools to remove the dust, debris, and broken rock from the floor, walls, and roof of the stope. It also includes the recovery of any valuable equipment, materials, or infrastructure that can be reused or recycled.

Sweeping and vamping is an important activity for maximizing the profitability and efficiency of mining operations. It can help to reduce the waste and environmental impact of mining, as well as to improve the safety and working conditions of the miners. Sweeping and vamping can also provide additional revenue for the mining company by recovering ore that would otherwise be left behind or inaccessible.

Sweeping and vamping can be done during or after the stoping phase of mining. It can be performed by specialized contractors or by the mining company itself. The methods and equipment used for sweeping and vamping may vary depending on the type, size, and location of the stope, as well as the availability of resources and technology.