The Geotechnical Stope Index aims to highlight the ore's dilution potential. The profile uses calculations to consider historical observations and geotechnical data analysis to identify potential geotechnical hazards about overbreaks in sublevel stoping. After each step, a column called "Estimated Dilution" is added to compare previous estimations with actual results, using a reconciliation method to calibrate the system's predictability feature. The Stope Index input limits have been calibrated based on stope performance data to provide realistic dilution estimations. This suggests that the system is being used in a mining or excavation context to estimate the amount of material that is lost or mixed in with the extracted ore during the mining process. By comparing the estimated dilution with the actual dilution, the system can improve its accuracy over time and provide more reliable estimates. This system is the geotechnical risk inserted in the mining plan before the mining production sequencing.
The mining operations of Mine Serra Grande (MSG), which is owned by Anglo Gold Ashanti group are in the city of Crixás, in the northwest of the state of Goiás and 384 km away from the capital Brasília. The mine has a total of 7 active mines, with 3 being underground and 4 being open pit. The underground operations are responsible for 90% of the unit's production, with the Sublevel Open Stope (SLOS) mining method being the primary mining method used.
For estimating stability used to empirical methodologies and dilution are based on data collected from specific geological and structural situations. Therefore, it is important to validate these methodologies for each operation, to guarantee that the results obtained accurately reflect the mine conditions. Understanding the variables that affect the stability and dilution of the excavations is fundamental for the application of a mining method in a mine. For this, a Geotechnical Risk Profile was needed to quickly assess the geotechnical risk associated with a mine plan presented as part of the Integrated Planning process.
