Dr Anthony Konya and Dr Calvin Konya, Precision Blasting Services, review some new methods for precision presplitting optimisation.
T
he ability to accurately and dependably presplit a final face is of extreme importance for the safety and economic viability of a mine. A proper presplit face is often attributed for reducing the likelihood of rockfalls from a project, but a deep understanding of the actual benefits is critical – not only in relation to the impact on safety, but also on capital and operating expenditures. Presplitting, in and of itself, is an expense for a mine, which can substantially increase the cost of the drilling and blasting programme, however, no mine-to-mill optimisation programme can be complete without an accompanying study on the economic benefits of presplitting. A presplit has three major functions at a mine, which will be discussed at length in this article. These objectives are: To reduce the rockfalls from a final face, which increases safety and reduces operating costs of clearing catch benches and catch berms. To allow for steeper face and pit angles, which increases overall profitability of the mine site. To complete the required objectives for the lowest cost achievable.
global mining review // September 2021
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