What factors determine the height and width of benches in surface mining?

The height and width of benches in surface mining are primarily determined by the job being attempted and the equipment being used. This is because the design of the benches must accommodate the type of machinery employed in the mining operations to ensure efficiency and safety.

For example, larger equipment may require wider benches to maneuver effectively, while the height of the benches may be influenced by the specific techniques being applied during the extraction process. Additionally, the characteristics of the mining operation itself—such as whether it is focused on coal extraction, mineral recovery, or another material—will also dictate how benches are structured to optimize both the safety of workers and the effectiveness of the mining operations.

This understanding is essential in surface mining as it directly impacts not only productivity but also the environmental management of the site.