Mining Dilution

What this topic covers

How waste mixed with ore changes feed grade.

Core mine-to-refinery ideas

Dilution adds material with little or no economic metal to the ore stream.

Greater dilution typically lowers silver grade and increases tonnes handled per unit recovered metal.

Mine design and ore control aim to manage dilution without creating unsafe practices.

Important tradeoffs

Ore control, dilution and mining recovery affect the grade and tonnes reaching the plant.

Measurement and accounting

Mine haulage and development can dominate energy, infrastructure and operating requirements.

Lifecycle perspective

Blasting, ground support, equipment operation and underground procedures are intentionally excluded.