Profit in mining depends on the amount of metal sold, yet mine and mill managers are often measured by separate, sometimes conflicting, short-term targets. For instance, mine managers focus on extracting and delivering a set tonnage to the crusher, while mill managers prioritize processing that ore at high recovery rates for customer delivery. These differing objectives can undermine overall profitability.
When mine teams push for higher extraction volumes, they may cut corners on drilling and blasting to save costs or meet targets. This often leads to inconsistent rock sizes, making it harder for the mill to achieve optimal recovery rates. Although reducing explosives may seem like an easy way to cut costs, it can result in poor rock fragmentation. The mill then faces higher energy and maintenance expenses to process the same volume of ore – expenses that can far outweigh the initial savings.
Bridge mine to mill KPIs and departmental gaps for greater efficiency
To prevent these costly misalignments, it’s essential to set performance metrics that support the mine’s overarching goals, not just departmental targets. Both mine and mill teams should be incentivized to work toward higher throughput and profitability, rather than conflicting KPIs.
A unified approach to blasting and fragmentation ensures rock is prepared optimally for downstream processing. By collaborating on a shared fragmentation strategy, mining companies can reduce overall costs and improve mineral recovery.
Implement a shared management control system and mine to mill KPIs
Aligning KPIs is only effective if supported by a system that enables real-time data sharing and transparency. A shared management control system allows both mine and mill managers to access the same performance data, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making. This integrated approach leads to sustainable improvements in throughput and ore recovery.
Unison Mining consultants can help your operation assess current KPIs, identify misalignments, and implement systems that promote better data sharing and goal alignment. The result: optimized production, reduced costs, and increased profitability.
Conclusion
Aligning mine-to-mill KPIs and supporting them with a shared management system is a strategic investment. It not only eliminates costly inefficiencies but also drives higher returns by ensuring every department works toward the same goals.
