Keyhole Mining
The SORD Technologies mining technology is essentially a ‘keyhole' system, using a small entry point on the surface to launch a remotely-controlled, wedge-shaped mining head - the Subterranean, Operated Remotely Dredge (SORD). Ore is sucked in through the screen at the front of the machine and pumped back to the surface as slurry.
The system has the potential to operate from depths of 200m and out to 1000m from the entry point. It can be fully submerged in soft, sandy and gravelly environments.
Advanced Development of Technology
The concepts behind SORD Co's mining system are far from embryonic, having been developed through a process of evolution and iteration over a period of 10 years, with the involvement of a range of specialist companies and individuals.