Conceptual structure of on-line information and control system toward stabilization of ore flow quality

Abstract

Underground mineral mining operations in the Norilsk Regions currently involve some essential changes connected with the requirement to maintain the production output at the wanted level and at demandable safety. In the meanwhile, the quality characteristics of minerals produced gradually worsen. In such situation, it is necessary to find a cardinally new approach to improving the crude ore quality by stabilizing composition of ore flow in the course of mining. The article discusses stabilization of ore composition in underground mines via modernization of information and control systems as a case-study of copper–nickel ore deposits in the Norilsk Region. The conceptual structure of the information and control system aimed at the ore flow quality stabilization is described. Such information and control system structure for the ore flow quality stabilization should provide all production control units with prompt and reliable data on the ore quality and its stability both for ore in situ and produced. The flowchart of the information acquisition, transfer and processing with the subsequent elaboration of a plan of strategic and tactical actions is critical and can, in the long view, become a mighty ore flow stabilizer capable effectively and considerably reduce variability of produced ore composition in the overall ore flow in a mine. The developed package of managerial, engineering and production activities makes the ore flow quality stabilization a controllable process. Its implementation allows enhancing technological efficiency not less than by 2 times, which can greatly improve performance in the whole mining and metallurgy sector.