Effectively controlling dilution is essential for maximizing ore recovery and maintaining project profitability. A range of tools and technologies are used across the mining cycle to minimize the inclusion of waste material(McCarthy, n.d.).
Key Solutions Include:
- Mine Planning Software (e.g., Surpac, Vulcan, Datamine): Enables accurate stope design, drill-and-blast planning, and optimized extraction boundaries(Dilution: GEO’s Get Some “Skin” In The Game | SRK Consulting, n.d.).
- Grade Control Sampling: Real-time sampling methods (e.g., blast hole, chip, on-belt analyzers) help distinguish ore from waste during operations.
- 3D Geological Modelling: Supports precise ore boundary definition and identification of potential dilution zones(Block Model Knowledge for Mining Engineers – An Introduction, n.d.).
- Precision Equipment: GPS-guided drills and controlled blasting reduce overbreak and unintended waste inclusion.
- Backfill Management: Automated systems ensure proper stope filling, reducing dilution from wall collapse or fill contamination.
- Remote Sensing & Surveying: Drones, laser scanning, and photogrammetry provide real-time stope geometry updates to detect and correct deviations.
- Operational Quality Control: Audits, supervision, and layout checks maintain adherence to dilution control standards.
By combining these tools and best practices, mining operations can effectively reduce dilution, enhance ore quality, and support more reliable production outcomes.
Reference:
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Block Model Knowledge for Mining Engineers—An Introduction. (n.d.). Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.deswik.com/whitepapers/block-model-knowledge-for-mining-engineers-an-introduction
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Dilution: GEO’s Get Some “Skin” In The Game | SRK Consulting. (n.d.). Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.srk.com/en/publications/dilution-geos-get-some-skin-in-the-game
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McCarthy, P. L. (n.d.). Mining Dilution and Losses in Underground Mining.
