MINE-MILL INTEGRATION: TECHNOLOGIES AND APPROACHES FOR HARD ROCK METAL MINES

Andrew Bamber

Course Presenters Schedule General information

Summary

Mine-Mill Integration encompasses a range of approaches for the integration of novel technologies into the mine to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the mineral extraction and beneficiation process. Mine Mill Integration can involve operational integration, such as the use of drill- and shovel- monitoring technologies, down-the-hole and face-mapping tools, optimization of the blast fragmentation/comminution process, as well as improved process monitoring and control in the pit and ore handling system. Mine-mill integration can also involve the physical integration of mineral processing technologies such as size classification, sorting or flash flotation into the mine itself, for improved grade control, as well as potentially improving ore grades in the feed to the mill.

Background

The term Mine-Mill Integration or Mine-to-Mill was fist coined by the Australians in the 1990’s. It was defined typically in terms of approaches to improve the interface between the mining operation in the pit and the surface mill. Aspects included in this definition include drill-mill technologies, down the hole sensing, blast fragmentation/comminution optimization, and interpretation of ore textures in terms of their impact on mineral processing. Since 1999, UBC has been involved in strategic research into Mine-Mill Integration, more specifically research into the integration of mineral processing and waste disposal technologies into the underground and surface mining environment. Aspects included in this definition include technologies for improved face mapping and grade control, selective and bulk mining technologies, innovative ore handling systems, ore grade sensing and control, and ore pre-concentration by size classification, sorting, dense media separation, coarse-particle flotation or gravity methods. The course described a comprehensive range of technologies and applications, as well as identifying several benefits to be enjoyed in adopting some or all of these approaches. A common thread linking technologies which can be used in airborne exploration, down-the-hole sensing, and ore sorting has been identified, which is presented in the course.

Pre-Course e-Learning

Prior to the course, registered delegates are provided with an internet url, user name and password. This enables them to access an online e-learning material from EduMine consisting of an introductory course titled "Mine Project Economics". This course provides delegates with important background material which increases their understanding and appreciation of the classroom course. Review of this material prior to the course, including completion of the interactive reviews, enables delegates to derive maximum benefit from the live sessions.

UBC Certificate in Mining Studies

This course qualifies for the UBC Certificate in Mining Studies, a continuing education initiative by the Norman B. Keevil Institute of Mining at the University of British Columbia. Delegates who (1) register for the Certificate in Mining Studies, (2) complete online certification in the required EduMine e-learning modules, (3) attend this course and (4) complete a take-away project will receive credit towards a Mining Certificate from UBC Continuing Studies. more details »

Who Should Attend?

The course is profiled for mining and mineral processing engineers, either working at mine operations or as engineering consultants to the minerals industry. A wider audience of mineral resource professionals is also envisaged.