NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN MINING GEOLOGY

Serving the SADC Mining Industry

TESTING THE IMPACT OF INFORMATION DENSITY ON INDICATED TONNES AND GRADE CONTENT IN GRADE CONTROL BLOCKS AT GRID A, (5m x 5m verses 10m x 5m).

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

Aim

The aim of this study is to quantify the impact information density (grid pattern) on indicated metal content in mining blocks at Grid A. Objectives The aim of the study is to accomplish the following objectives: Determine the additional value created by drilling at 5m x 5m pattern. Determine the potential gold loss by drilling at 10m x 5m pattern. Determine the cost saving realized by drilling at 10m x 5m (if reasonable to do so). Recommend a way forward as to what grid pattern to use and justify.

Kumar (2005, p.40) defines problem formulation as the most important process of the research process. It is like the identification of destination before undertaking a journey. The researcher defines problem formulation as the process of developing an investigation query about a particular situation that has to be studied. A research question for this study can be formulated as follows: WHICH OF THE TWO BETWEEN THE 5m x 5m AND 10m x 5m DRILLING PATTERNS CAN PRODUCE SUFFICIENT METAL CONTENTS?

The significance of this study is that the findings will provide an empirical basis for decisions to be made. Furthermore, it will also provide an opportunity to optimize drilling patterns and potential results in cost saving. The study will also create a knowledge base for geologists to come up with improved production and operations of the mine.

The research questions relevant to this study are as follows:

What is the drilling method used at Grid A and why? At what depths are grade control holes drilled? Why is the 5m x 5m grid pattern used at Grid A and how was it determined? Is there any material change in indicated metal if the grid pattern 5m x 5m changed to 10m x 5m pattern? In which direction is finer information required: along strike or across strike. What is the potential cost saving?

The following variables are likely to contribute to the problem:

The dimensions of the ore body. This determines the level/degree to which density of drilling will optimally define the ore zone. Continuance of the ore zones. This determines the degree, at which the ore zone is accurately defined, (waste zones between holes). Increased/decreased density of drilling. This defines the accuracy to which an ore zone is defined. The existing pattern would not necessarily provide optimal pattern. Over drilling does not create value; under drilling may destroy value and optimal drilling creates optimal value.

As such, the project will pay attention to the systematic discussion and analysis of the selected topic. The research proposal will attempt to provide the background and rationale of the study.