Abstract

The mining and processing of metal ore is spread over a large range of activities from metal content estimation to processing and refining. The sub activities encompassed within these broad activities though, are independent. However, since they are sequential and the output of one activity becomes an input to the next activity, accurate mass and metal content transfer becomes mandatory at each point. The AMIRA P754 code for metal accounting is considered the standard for accurate and reliable metal accounting. Still, it is difficult for industry to fully implement codes like these because of the lack of reliable software tools and digital technologies for data collection, verification, storage, and analysis required for mine and plant metal accounting. There is therefore a need to develop an integrated system that will help with improving the metal accounting process for better compliance with the AMIRA code. This paper presents a conceptualized digital framework that enables collection and analysis of data from the processes, mandatory for correct application of AMIRA P754 code to improve accuracy in estimation and reporting. Such a system will help with improving metal content estimation, mine planning, understanding ore and metal flow, reducing losses and reduce discrepancies along the process.

Keywords: Metal accounting; Ore flow; Copper mining; Amira code; Planning