In hardrock mining, this term specifically denotes a horizontal excavation driven across the geological strata rather than following a mineralized vein. It is used to connect surface portals to the deposit or to link different mining areas through waste rock. This differs from a drift, which follows the strike of the ore itself.
Heard on the job
We're advancing the main haulage tunnel at ten meters a day through solid granite.
Do not mix it up with
- Drift: A drift follows the ore vein, while a tunnel is driven through barren rock to reach it.