Identification and strength classification of weakness zones in the Garpenberg mine based on measurement while drilling (MWD)

Abstract: Boliden’s Garpenberg mine produces Zn-Pb-Ag(Cu-Au) using a sublevel stoping with pastefill mining method. The orebody is strongly affected by the existence of weakness zones mainly consisting of Talc Schist and Phlogopite Schist which affect the design, planning and production of the stope. To mine the ore two drifts, one below and one above the ore section, are excavated typically at a distance of 25 meters. Afterwards parallell longhole drilling is done for the primary stopes and drilling in a fan pattern is done for secondary stopes by automated remotely controlled SIMBA drills. Those drill rigs are equipped with sensors that record drilling parameters during drilling, so called Measurements While Drilling. The drilling parameters that are recorded are depth, time, penetration rate, percussive pressure, feed pressure, dampening pressure, rotation pressure and flush pressure at selected intervals. This thesis aims to identify the mentioned weakness zones using the existing MWD data. First of all, this thesis contains six chapters. The first is a detailed introduction to the problem. The second chapter describes the geology, the mining method used in Garpenberg and also includes a brief section on how SIMBA drills work. The third chapter consists of the MWD theory, literature review and the methodology used to come up with the solution of the stated problem. In the fourth chapter is described how a successful method was developed using 3D models created from MWD data and geologic maps to identify the weakness zones and classify the rock based on four filters created. The fifth chapter is a detailed discussion of the results and findings of this thesis. Finally, the sixth chapter is the conclusion.