Raise (mining)

An emergency escape raise.

In underground mining a raise refers to a vertical or inclined excavation that leads from one level, or drift, to another. A raise may also extend to surface. There are four excavation methods for raises:

1. Conventional or open raise
2. Long-hole or drop raise
3. Alimak
4. Raise boring^[1]

Raises serve a number or purposes including:

1. Transportation of ore and waste rock
2. Ventilation
3. Creating a free face for mining
4. Movement of workers via manway ladders^[2]

References

1. Puhakka, Tulla (1997). Underground Drilling and Loading Handbook. Finland: Tamrock Corporation. p. 180.
2. Puhakka, Tulla (1997). Underground Drilling and Loading Handbook. Finland: Tamrock Corporation. pp. 181–185.