Online ore monitoring using EDXRF method on process conveyor belts at Kazakhmys Corporation LLC operations

The paper discusses organizing online ore monitoring on process conveyor belts at the operations of Kazakhmys Corporation LLC using EDXRF method implemented as an ore-controlling station (OCS) targeting ore size of -300 mm. OCS is supposed to achieve the objective of providing reliable silver detection measurements in the range of 1+ ppm. Objects of monitoring: copper-containing polymetallic ores delivered to Zhezkazgan, Balkhash and Karagaily processing plants for treatment (target elements include copper, zinc, lead, silver, cadmium, and iron) as well as ores transported by the main underground feeder belt at Nurkazgan Mine (copper, zinc, lead, silver, molybdenum, and iron). The ultimate of the studies was to produce an online report on quality and quantities of ore and metals delivered from each of ore suppliers; to adjust the tonnages dispatched by the various shafts and open pits in the online mode; obtain reliable proof for unbiased redistribution of metals back to the mining operations. Equipment used during the studies: EDXRF OCS RLP21T. Key features of the unit are also discussed. The results of bench-scale testing as well as industrial application of OCS RLP-21T are discussed leading to the conclusion of successful online monitoring of silver in ores sized from +1 ppm to -300 mm. The photographs were provided by S. A. Yefimenko.