Abstract

The lateral migration mechanism in block caving was studied in scaled-model gravity flow experiments using coarse and fine materials with isolated draw, multiple uniform draw, and two panel-caving draw. Extraction direction–approaching the fine material initial location or moving away from it–generated differences in the sequence of fine material entering, not in the average amount of fine material reported. In both extraction directions, a rilling mechanism was observed, followed by vertical migration. To minimise lateral migration not only the extraction direction but also the drawpoints most affected by the early presence of fine material should be considered. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.