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Measurement Technology in Mining

Paper by:

Jay A. Rodgers

The Ensign-Bickford Company, Simsbury Connecticut, USA

Abstract

The mining industry is moving toward a technology driven optimization process. In this optimization, the "cost centers" such as Drilling, Blasting, Excavation, Hauling and Crushing are seen as interrelated variables in the total cost equation. Electronic initiation systems are one of the emerging technologies that will drive this optimization process. The precision of electronic initiation systems will allow the science of blasting to proceed in field applications without the uncertainty of detonator scatter. In order for the advances in blasting technology to effectively reduce the mining industry’s cost equation, smart equipment and other innovative measurement technologies will need to be developed or advanced so that information can flow back into the process for continuous improvement.

If used properly, process control and measurement technologies can be valuable tools in the optimization of mining. The Ensign-Bickford Company is dedicated to developing these abilities and applying them to the best use of its products so that the end user can benefit from reduced total costs.
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