Change management | for miners, by miners

Fragmentation Strategy

Optimize rock fragmentation to reduce processing costs and maximize mining yield

Home » Value Chain » Drilling & Blasting » Fragmentation Strategy

Overview

A rock fragmentation strategy for drilling and blasting directly affects the efficiency of subsequent processes such as loading, hauling, and processing. Many factors need to be accounted for when developing this strategy, such as aligning mine to mill operations to ensure efficiency during later stages of the value chain.

For instance, geological formations can vary significantly in terms of density, fault lines, ore body, and vein profiles. A one, or two, size-fits-all strategy leads to inconsistent fragmentation, increased blasting costs and sub-par mining operations. Achieving the correct energy distribution in the blast is crucial.

Poor distribution leads to inconsistent fragmentation and poor benches for drills and excavators. Meanwhile, over-break leads to dilution and excessive powder factors – impacting ore recovery and yield. Safety considerations during blasting also need to be considered and prioritized in the fragmentation strategy, and training personnel is paramount to ensure smooth operations.

Key Client Challenges

What blast design parameters should be used such as drill hole diameter, spacing, and burden to optimize energy distribution and fragmentation outcomes?

What safety measures should be implemented to reduce the risk of flyrock, misfires, and other hazards associated with blasting operations?

What data monitoring and collection methods can we use for post-blast analysis to ensure optimal fragmentation?

How YCP Unison Can Help

A key component of a well-developed fragmentation strategy is the alignment of mine and mill KPIs, ensuring that on-site blasting practices are prioritizing ore recovery. Instead of KPIs that are fragmented and siloed, mine and mills need to operate in unison, with incentives for personnel on site to make decisions that optimize processing at the mill.

YCP Unison professionals can work closely with your teams to ensure KPIs and monitoring is designed in such a way that results in better rock fragmentation and ultimately, optimized yield outcomes at the mill.