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At Fast2Mine, we understand that planning in a mining operation is not just a task, but a complex strategic process that shapes every aspect of the project, from its conception to its execution. In this blogpost, we’ll dive into the different phases of this process and how Mining Control plays a key role in each of them, check it out!
THE BEGINNING: CONCEPTUAL PLANNING
Planning in mining begins with a conceptual phase, where the aim is to establish a general understanding of the project or target. Here, we discuss objectives, strategic vision and business model, based on information such as: geological models of the deposit, geostatistical estimates from boreholes and chemical analysis data. This is the time to assess the technical and economic viability of the project, which is fundamental for future success.
Mining Control helps at this early stage by providing valuable insights on which to base strategic decisions.
ACTING QUICKLY: SHORT-TERM PLANNING
In short-term planning, we’re talking about a time horizon of one day to one year. Here, the Mining Control system becomes even more crucial, providing real-time data on production, equipment performance and operational efficiency to enable immediate adjustments to mining plans.
ADJUSTING COURSE: MEDIUM-TERM PLANNING
With a five-year time horizon, medium-term planning is closer to operational reality. Here, we analyze estimated and current production data, equipment performance, ore quality and market trends to optimize mining efficiency and production.
THINKING AHEAD: LONG-TERM STRATEGIC PLANNING
Long-term strategic planning is designed for at least the next ten years. Here, we focus on predicting ore grades in different lenses, sizing the fleet according to expected production and determining the most suitable mining and processing method. During this process, Mining Control provides continuous data on production and assists in strategic decision-making.
ENSURING ACCURACY: ESTIMATION METHODS AND GEOSTATISTICS:
The accuracy of estimates is fundamental at all stages of planning. Methods such as stochastic simulation and the inverse square of the distance method are used to accurately predict the mineral resources available and the costs involved in exploiting these resources. However, the most common estimation method today is kriging, which can be ordinary, simple, universal, indicative and co-kriging.
BUT WHAT IS KRIGING ANYWAY?
Kriging is a regression method used to interpolate data and takes into account the spatial autocorrelation characteristics of regionalized variables. Learn more about the specifics of this method.
In addition to kriging, another super interesting method is stochastic simulation: this consists of using probabilistic models and random number generation to simulate complex processes involving uncertainties.
In short, strategic planning in mining is a complex and fundamental activity for the success of any enterprise, but it is worth emphasizing that the adoption of precise methods and careful consideration of risks and uncertainties are essential to guarantee effective and sustainable results in the long term.
At Fast2Mine, we understand the importance of each stage of this process and we work to ensure that Mining Control and all our solutions can provide the data and insights necessary for miners, engineers and professionals in the mining sector to make the best and most strategic decisions.
Want to learn more about this and other solutions to optimize your operation? Talk to our experts!
