Ore Characterization for Process Control: An Update of a Mesabi Range Project

Abstract

An ongoing research program is characterizing the ore qualities that most affect mine and mill processing of iron. Current practice uses assays of magnetic iron and silica, but additional qualities are needed for advanced process control. If additional qualities can be measured from core, blastholes, or process samples, they can be modeled and controlled similarly. What qualities, other than assays, hinder or facilitate beneficiation at each processing step, and how can they be measured in the mine/mill ore stream? This paper describes preliminary determinations of the effects of ore chemistry, hardness, blasthole drill performance, fragmentation control, and grindability on mill performance.

Department(s)

Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Blasthole Drill Performance; Grindability; Mill Performance; Ore Chemistry; Assays; Hardness; Mining Drills; Ore Analysis; Project Management; Silica; Process Control; Iron

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2005 Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration Inc. (SME), All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Feb 2005

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