3D stockpile modelling to improve the quality control in iron ore handling

Abstract

This paper describes a 3D stockpile modelling algorithm to improve quality control and increase operational efficiency in iron ore handling. The 3D model, generated from real measuring data, approximates a stockpile using a group of 3D volumetric element, which able to store information inside it, such as quality compositions of the ore. By associating this model with the cutting geometry of a real reclaimer, the quality of reclaimed material can be calculated and it is then possible to adjust the reclaiming according to the end objective with an optimised and continuous machine movement. This will help convert the current reactive and discontinuous reclaiming procedure into a proactive and unbroken mode. The proposed modelling algorithm was tested on a scaled down stockpile model and results demonstrate good, precise and fast performances.