Bench and Fill
nounPronunciation: /bɛntʃ ənd fɪl/
A progressive mine reclamation technique where highwalls are cut into benches or steps, with mined material or approved fill used to rehabilitate lower areas, creating stable slopes and reducing visual impact. This method optimizes space utilization while maintaining slope stability and promoting post-mining land use.
Plain English
A mining technique that cuts terraced steps into steep slopes and fills lower areas with material to create stable, flatter land.
Etymology & History
Usage
"The limestone quarry adopted a bench and fill approach to progressively reduce the 80-meter highwall while improving overall site stability."
Style guide notes: Use 'bench and fill' as a compound modifier only when directly modifying 'method' or 'approach'; otherwise keep separate.
Also known as
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Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials can be used for filling?
Approved materials include overburden, coal ash, demolition waste, and other non-hazardous industrial by-products meeting specifications.
What are the benefits of bench and fill?
Benefits include slope stability improvement, visual impact reduction, enhanced post-mining land suitability, and reduced highwall-related hazards.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Bench and fill design principles are tested in mine engineering curricula focusing on surface mining reclamation methodologies.
Required skill level: Mid