The multiple compartments of a mine shaft are called shaft sets.
These sets are usually made of steel and are made up of horizontal members called buntons and vertical members called guides.
Steel shaft guides come in two varieties: hollow structural sections and top hat sections.
Top hats are preferred because they have increased stiffness over hollow sections and a simpler installation process.
They also make use of wire ropes rather than steel guide beams, which are more flexible and easier to replace.
The largest compartment in a shaft mine is typically used for moving workers, heavy equipment, and loads of ore.
Miners descend and ascend through the shaft in a mine cage, which is similar to an elevator you'd find in a skyscraper.
These cages are equipped with multiple safety systems to ensure workers can be safely evacuated in case of unexpected failure.
Horizontal tunnels, called drifts, are used for drainage in shaft mining.
These drifts form an important part of the structure. Without proper drainage, water can well up inside the mine and damage the mining components and equipment.
The place where a shaft meets the main ore body is called the shaft station, inset, or plat.
Drifts typically fan outward from the station to facilitate movement beneath the ground.
The shaft bottom is the lowest part of the mine. It's also the most dangerous place to work, so care must be taken to ensure miners spend as little time down there as possible.
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