This paper documents the relationship between material handling and
processing costs compared to blasting cost. The old adage, 'The cheapest
crushing is done in the pit', appears accurate in this case study.
Comparison of the accumulated cost of powder, selected wear materials
and electricity, indicate a strong, inverse correlation with powder factor
(lbs powder/long ton of rock). In this case, the increased powder cost is
more than offset by electrical savings alone. Measurable, overall costs decline while shovel and crusher
productivity rise by about five per cent when powder factor rises by 15
per cent. These trends were previously masked by the effects of weather,
ore grade fluctuations and accounting practices.