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Geological Society, London, Special Publications; 1994; v. 79; p. 95-108;
DOI: 10.1144/GSL.SP.1994.079.01.10
© 1994 Geological Society of London

Deposit variability

Dilution in underground bulk mining: implications for production management

M. J. Scoble1 & A. Moss2

1 McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2A7
2 Golder Associates Ltd, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5C 6C6

The minimization of dilution represents a major opportunity for quality improvement in Canadian underground metal mining. The characteristics of the principal forms of dilution, planned and unplanned, are reviewed. These are controlled by quality factors relating to exploration, mine design and stoping practice. The scope for quality improvement and the need for technology development is analysed in the context of underground bulk mining. The design principles for a production management system which tightly monitors and controls dilution are proposed. This revolves around the reconciliation of accurate and timely data on ore reserves, stope fragmentation, cavity morphology, rockmass integrity, and production statistics. Particular priority will require to be placed on continued sensor development for measurement of cavity geometry, borehole deviation, grade and tonnage. This is intended to exploit a rapidly evolving underground communications technology and forms part of a rationale for future computer integrated mining.