What factors affect lower grade ores?

A shift to lower grade ores over time can indeed be observed for many minerals; however, this shift has been driven not by depletion of high-grade deposits but rather by dilution of ore grades through a combination of other factors, including: a) major improvements in metallurgical technologies, which have converted …

Why are lower grade ores searched for in mining?

Mining, handling and processing low-grade ore in mining and mineral processing operations is resulting in higher costs and lower profits. By removing low grade ore prior to processing, operations can minimise energy use and increase plant profitability.

How is cut-off grade calculated?

The cutoff grade is the grade at which the cost of mining and processing the ore is equal to the desired selling price of the commodity extracted from the ore. The block below represents 1 ton (T) of in-place ore. We know that the grade is 1\%, so we have 20 lb. of copper distributed in that ton of ore.

What is low grade ores?

Low grade ores, are those with a low concentration of metals, like shale and schist etc.

What are three factors that limit the mining of lower grade ores?

Terms in this set (24) Energy and water, habitat destruction, human health threat. More difficult to extract and process low-grade ore.

How is cutoff grade calculated?

Mathematically, the minimum acceptable grade to mine, i.e. the cutoff grade, occurs when the cost to mine and process the material, (M&P cost), is equal to the value of the product, i.e. its selling price, SP. M&P cost = mining & processing cost, $/T. SP = selling price of the copper, $/lb. D = dilution.

What is the difference between high and low grade ores?

What is the difference between a high grade and a low grade ore? High-grade ore contains a large concentration of the desired mineral. Low-grade ore has a smaller concentration.