Mine to Mill Value Chain Optimization-Role of Blasting

摘要

In metal mining operations the in-situ ore is separated from the waste rock and is subjected to a series of breakage and separation processes to convert it into a valuable product. Profitability in this industry depends on how efficiently the in-situ rock is converted into the final product. Despite the fact that the breakage and separation processes that take place at the mine and mill are inter-dependent, traditionally, mining and milling processes are managed as separate cost centers and optimized with little understanding of the impact of one over the other. During the past two decades, several researchers have demonstrated that all the processes in the mine to mill production value chain are inter-dependent and understanding the impact of blasting outcomes on the overall process efficiency is critical to improve the overall profitability. This paper explains the mine to mill optimization methodology and the critical role of blast outcomes in improving overall efficiency. The value of this approach is demonstrated by using data from field studies.