PTFI Enhances Engineers Competence to Answer Underground Mining Challenges
27 February 2025
PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) continues its commitment to ensure the sustainability of its underground mining operations. Operating one of the largest underground mining complexes in the world, PTFI faces complex and unique challenges that require careful and good planning. This is not limited to equipment and methods, but also a commitment to develop its human capitals. One of the concrete steps is a training programs designed to shape future mining engineers at PTFI.
Recently, 22 employees participated in Caving Fundamental training which focused on the main principles of good and sustainable Block Caving mining methods. This training aims to provide knowledge and strengthen participants' understanding in managing underground block cave mining operations, especially related to cave management, tunnel geomechanics/stability, Cave Health and the necessary monitoring systems. Participants were also provided with insights into fragmentation, cave propagation, and the concept of material flow which play an important role in optimizing production and mitigating risks.
Anton Priatna - Vice President Underground Engineering, said that "This Caving Fundamental Training is very important to be given to our underground mining engineers, especially those working in the DMLZ and GBC/KL mines to provide a strong foundation for them in operating good and responsible mine plans to achieve production targets based on correct mining principles which will ultimately ensure the stability and sustainability of block cave mining operations safely and sustainably."
"This training provides in-depth insight into the basic principles that need to be applied in block caving operations," said Dania Fajrina - Engineer, Geology GBC. "As a geologist, I feel that the Rock Mass Characterization material is very helpful in improving skills of rock characterization and conveying geological information more effectively to cave management and related departments."
Norvita Douw - Superintendent, DMLZ Scheduling, added that this training provides a comprehensive understanding of cave management, material withdrawal control and production concepts in block caving. "This training also helps me in understanding the risks in underground mining and how to optimize production with a more effective approach," she said.
This training is part of an ongoing training program since the first batch on 22-25 July 2024 which was attended by 25 participants. PTFI will continue to hold subsequent training to ensure equal competency development for all employees. In this program, PTFI invited Andre van As, an expert from Bryan Mining and Geology Research Center, University of Queensland, Australia, as the instructor.
Block Caving Mining Method
Block caving is a highly resource-efficient method of underground mining, in which large underground ore blocks are cut from beneath, allowing the ore to collapse under its own weight. After collapsing, ore is drawn through drawpoints and conveyed to a crusher.
Currently, PTFI operates three main underground mining complexes: Grasberg Block Cave (GBC), Deep Mill Level Zone (DMLZ), and Big Gossan. Big Gossan applies the Open Stope method, while GBC and DMLZ apply the Block Caving method. PTFI also continues to expand, including the development of the PB4 mining block in DMLZ which is planned to start production in 2027, as well as the Kucing Liar underground mine which is targeted to operate in 2028. Both mines will adopt the Block Caving method to ensure long-term production efficiency.
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