Optimisation of Blast Design and Execution must be done right the first time. It is too late after the ore is broken.
Consequences of poor design and execution negatively affect productivity from load and haul through the primary crusher to processing and hence reduce mine site profits.
Harnessing and utilising ‘big data’ from geology, geometallurgy, drill hole location, powder loading, blast timing, blast movement and fragmentation to close the loop in blast design and optimise the blast increases productivity across the entire value chain from Mine to Mill.
As the internet of things and artificial intelligence increases the quantity of data available, being able to capture and utilise this data to advantage is a challenge. Recent advances in software and hardware together with the increased power of cloud computing allows engineers to close the blasting loop to increase mine site productivity.
Numerous case studies over the years detail significant gains from implementing the innovative technologies available to Mine to Mill projects. The opportunity is available for all members of the multi-discipline teams at each mine site to actively ensure productivity improvements are realised and maintained not only in their area, or silo of responsibility but across the entire mine site.
This paper refers to recent case studies which outline how significant improvements in productivity are available to all mining operations to increase mine site profitability and dividends to shareholders.