Mining technologies at Polyus Krasnoyarsk

Abstract

The article discusses mining efficiency and the related research activities at Polyus Krasnoyarsk. Olimpiada and Blagodat gold fields feature difficult geological, hydrological and geotechnical conditions. Sustainable mining at high rate and high output requires permanent scientific, engineering and design support and supervision. In this regard, the integrated and fruitful efforts are persistently undertaken to improve performance of drilling and blasting, including minimization of seismic and shock wave impact on rock mass beyond the perimeter blast holes, optimization of size grade composition of blasted rock pile, and determination of displacement vector of rocks in muck pile using appropriate instrumentation and software. Furthermore, modification and upgrading of drainage systems and slope stability control is always in process in Olimpiada open pit mines. Polyus Krasnoyarsk engages itself with refining of information on geomechanics and hydrogeology of gold ore bodies. The purpose of these activities is to determine and amend the parameters of ore body occurrence, morphology of faulting, rock contacts and folding structures in rock mass, physical and mechanical properties of rocks, as well as hydrogeological conditions, with updating of the numerical models. Such information at hand ensures mine safety and enables safe and economically efficient decision-making on spoil bank design to provide the required slope stability in open pit mines.