ISSN:
1573-8868
Keywords:
geostatistics
;
kriging
;
variogram analysis
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Mathematics
Notes:
Abstract The Nanisivik Pb-Zn deposit at Strathcona Sound, northern Baffin Island, Canada, is an orebody that is an S-shaped lens 3000 m long, 75 m wide, and 2–20 m thick. It is an epigenetic karst channel filling. Total reserves are 6.9 million short tons of 14.12% Zn, 1.4% Pb, and 1.77 oz of Ag per ton. The mine was brought into production in 1976 at a rate of 2000 short tons per day. In the preproduction phase variogram studies based only on surface holes indicated a random distribution. For the evaluation of grades and for the determination of the confidence limits, classic statistical procedures were applied. Since the drilling density was different in different ore zones, a model was developed to test the effect of different drill hole spacings on the uncertainties in the present value in a discounted cash flow model. After the initial development and mining stage, structures could be recognized in semivariograms. Studies for a best drilling grid showed that the pattern of 25 ×20 m used in the mine could be extended to 35 ×35 m, taking into account that eight stopes are mined simultaneously. For ore reserve calculations weighing factors were calculated by kriging for six universally applicable geometric situations. Only the drill holes within a block and immediately surrounding it were taken into account. A test in a well-known zone yielded satisfactory results. A test to predict highs and lows of the grade accurately enough to optimally place the pillars failed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01029419
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