A mine tram, specifically an aerial mining tramway as described in the provided reference, is a system designed for transporting ore from a mining site. These useful systems moved mined material over distances to a location where it could then be transferred onto other transportation methods like rail, wagons, or boats for further processing, such as smelting.
Understanding Aerial Mining Tramways
Based on the information available, an aerial mining tramway serves a crucial purpose in the mining process:
- Primary Function: To transport ore mined from a site.
- Method: An aerial system, meaning it operates overhead, typically using cables and buckets or carriers.
- Destination: It delivers ore to a transfer point located away from the mine itself.
- Purpose at Destination: The ore is moved to a location where it can be easily loaded onto other forms of transport (rail, wagon, boat) to be taken to processing facilities like smelters.
The reference highlights the utility of these systems, noting that they were useful systems for transporting ore.
Historical Significance
Aerial mining tramways were important infrastructure for many mining operations in the past. They provided an efficient way to move large volumes of material across challenging terrain that might be difficult for ground-based transport. As the reference mentions, historical tramways, like the one on museum grounds, remain today as a reminder of mines that once operated on those sites, such as the Black Bear Mine. This underscores their historical presence and role in the industry.
Key Characteristics (Based on Reference)
Here are the core characteristics of an aerial mining tramway based on the description:
- Type: Aerial System
- Material Transported: Ore
- Origin: Mining Site
- Destination: Location for transfer to Rail, Wagon, or Boat
- Overall Usefulness: Described as "useful systems"
These systems facilitated the movement of resources from remote mining locations to the wider transportation networks required for processing and distribution.
