We’ll discuss Challenges with implementing High Precision Drilling and Digging, GroundHog Geology and Ore Control Solution, GroundHog Geology Apps, GroundHog OpsCenter for Material Movement Tracking, Stockpile Management, and GroundHog QA/QC – Ore Blending at Ore Faces and Stockpiles
Challenges with implementing High Precision Drilling and Digging
Despite the many benefits of high-precision drilling and digging, implementing these techniques comes with its own set of challenges. Workforce training and expertise are crucial for effectively implementing high precision drilling and digging techniques. Skilled operators familiar with advanced machinery and technologies play a pivotal role. Comprehensive training programs for workers or hiring experienced professionals help overcome this challenge.
GroundHog Geology and Ore Control Solution
GroundHog cutting edge Geology and Ore Control Solution ensure Ore Dilution Control at various stages of mining operation
GroundHog Geology Apps
Geologists can keep track of different qualities of materials available at faces and stockpiles through GroundHog Geology Apps. Based on the drill holes sample analysis Geologists can identify different grades of ore at ore faces and can move the material from ore face (source) to crusher/stockpiles (destination) based on the material quality and quantity requirements of the beneficiation plants.
GroundHog OpsCenter for Material Movement Tracking
GroundHog OpsCenter can keep a track of material movement from source to destination throughout the shift on real-time basis. It helps easy reconciliation between the plan vs actual at a shorter interval keep the possible deviations under control.
Stockpile Management
GroundHog Stockpile Management solution maintains ore inventory and stockpile balance for various grades of ore. Movement of ore from (-) and to (+) the stockpile can be managed through GroundHog OpsCenter and the stockpile balance can be maintained.
GroundHog QA/QC – Ore Blending at Ore Faces and at Stockpiles
GroundHog Material Blending Module ensures proper blending of different grades of ore to maintain quality and quantity target of mill feed requirements. Depending on the availability of material blending can be done at ore faces or at stockpiles. Feed Grade ore can be directly fed to Crusher. High Grade and Low-Grade ore need to be blend properly based on feed grade requirements. Material blending module can be used to blend both Chemical properties (Assay Value) and Physical properties (Hard Ore, Soft Ore, Lump, Fines, etc.) of ore.
Mis-haul Alert to Truck Operators for diversion from the designated route
Routes from source to destination location are fixed based on the type of material to be handled by truck operators. If due to any reason operators divert from their designated path and approach towards wrong destination, the system will generate an alert to truck operators to avoid dumping of material in the wrong location. Mis-haul alerts prevent wrong-location dumping and eliminate the mixing of waste to ore. It reduces ore dilution.
In conclusion, High-Precision GPS technology has transformed open-pit mining by improving ore grade control, equipment navigation, and operational efficiency. With centimeter-level accuracy, it maximizes ore recovery, reduces waste, and lowers costs, all while promoting safety and sustainability. GroundHog’s RTK-based GPS units ensure drilling and digging precision, while tools like drones and machine learning further enhance planning and execution. Together, these technologies enable more efficient, sustainable, and precise mining practices.
