This case study run by IMA Engineering in a low grade Nickel Mine highlights the benefits of On-line drill cuttings analysis.
IMA Engineering carried out grade control study in a low grade nickel mine, utilizing the new Percussive Drill Sampler – Analyzer (PDSA) trailer mounted version. The goal of the study was to compare the current mine grade control method with the new continuous On-Line sampling and analysis method, and calculate it’s effect to the mine economy. The test was done during normal blast hole production drilling which was done with 140mm bit size and 12 degrees inclined holes. A drilling pattern with 3,6 m burden and 5,0 m spacing and 1,5m subdrill was used. The 15 meter high 100,000 ton bench was located in waste-ore contact zone. The ore-waste cut-off grade used was Ni% (Eqv) 0,07%.