Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised Jun 21, 2026

Raise (mining)

In underground mining, a raise refers to a vertical or inclined shaft excavation that leads from one level, or drift, to another. A raise may also extend to surface. There are four excavation methods for raises:Conventional or open raise Long-hole or drop raise Alimak Raise boring

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Jun 21, 2026
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An emergency escape raise. source ↗

In underground mining, a raise refers to a vertical or inclined shaft 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 boring1

Raises serve a number of purposes including:

  1. Transportation of ore and waste rock
  2. Ventilation
  3. Creating a free face for mining
  4. Movement of workers via manway ladders2
References

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.