A feasibility study of exploration for deep seated ore bodies in the Skellefte field

Abstract: Simulation technique has been used for a feasibility study of a deep exploration project for massive sulphides in an old mining district, the Skellefte field. The outcome under very different conditions has been studied. Under the specific conditions of the well known Skellefte field it is found to be possible to even calibrate the mathematical model.It is found that when the geology is not known in detail, an outcome of the order of 50 tons per meter drillhole is to be expected under a simple drilling strategy.When a certain knowledge about the general structures down to around 1 000 m is established, it is possible to improve the outcome by a factor of 2 through an optimization of the depth of investigation. The optimal depth of investigation is in the order of 500 m.On the other hand, when a minimum ore value is introduced as a function of depth, the expected outcome will again decrease with a factor of about 3.It must be underlined, that these results are average values in a mathematical model and do not say anything about the outcome in the single exploration case. However, in exploration campaigns of the order of 40 drillholes to a depth of 1000 m an analysis shows that at least one deep seated large body was found in 25% ot the exploration campaigns.Faced with the problem whether to go or not to go into a deep exploration phase, this technique can headlight the problem and it can give an estimate about the order of costs and benefits.