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BACKControl of Blast-induced Ore Loss and Dilution at AngloGold Ashanti
Blast movement monitoring was introduced at AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem (AAIL) Mine in the first quarter of 2013 as a result of reconciliation challenges. Since the introduction, reconciliation has improved through reducing ore loss and dilution.
The main objective of this paper is to assess the benefits of the BMT solution on blast-induced movement at Iduapriem Mine.
The study comprised data collection on the Blast Movement Monitoring system at AAIL and its analysis, as well as cost and benefit analysis. From the BMM data analysis, it was observed that the bottom flitch of the blasted material moved more than the top flitch in the horizontal direction while the reverse was the case for the vertical movement.
The cost-benefit analysis from four shots analysed revealed that there was a benefit of US$753 835, which translates into 650% return on investment. Thus, the use of the BMM system had a positive financial impact on Iduapriem Mine. Continuous use of the system as a grade control practice was recommended for the mine.