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By Hunsaker R. D

The description, characteristics, advantages and application of a new bulk explosive for medium to large diameter dry blasthole conditions is described. A brief outline of the delivery system for the product is also included. This explosive has been designed to provide an alternative to ANFO, currently the most common bulk dry hole product available to the mining and quarrying industry. The selection of the optimum explosive for any blasting operation is of prime importance. It is a major factor contributing to the production of the desired results in terms of muckpile fragmentation, shape and diggability. The optimum explosive can be defined as the most cost-effective in producing satisfactory breakage and displacement of the material. ANFO satisfies this prerequisite for a significant proportion of dry hole applications. This unique, low density and low velocity of detonation explosive has been developed to provide the industry with a cost competitive alternative to ANFO. Typical loading or average inhole densities nominally range between 0.40 g/cc to 0.70 g/cc, depending on the application. Characteristics of this explosive allow for specific and common applications in open cut coal and metalliferous operations. These include ore/waste control operations, prestripping and presplitting applications, sites confronting cap rock problems, and large hole diameter quarries.

Jan 1, 1995

By M Pernechele, U König

Most of the operating steelmaking capacity currently relies on conventional, coal-based steelmaking processes. Currently, direct reduced iron (DRI) is only produced in regions where energy is available at low cost. To align with net-zero emissions goals, steelmaking capacity must transition to loweremissions steelmaking technology. Direct reduction of iron ore will get one of the preferred methods in the future due to its high technology readiness. New reduction technologies include hydrogenbased direct reduction processes. To ensure optimal efficiency during DRI production and to cope with newly developed technologies, processes need to be monitored more frequently and accurate. Traditionally quality control of raw materials and DRI has relied on time consuming physical testing, wet chemistry or the analysis of the elemental composition. The mineralogy of DRI that defines its properties is not frequently monitored. Process monitoring and quality control of DRI is possible by using modern X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods. In addition to the metallic iron content (Femet), metallisation (Metn) and the total carbon content (Ctot), XRD analysis also identifies the overall mineralogical phase composition. This allows additional information about the reduction process and enables fast counteractions on changing raw material mixtures. The benefits of the quantitative determination of the phase composition and the calculation of process critical parameters to produce DRI will be demonstrated with a case study

Sep 18, 2023

The 5.6 km Canning Tunnel was constructed to improve water supply from Canning Dam to the Perth metropolitan area. The site area is in the Darling Range which is essentially a laterite-capped plateau-remnant underlain by Archaean granitic rocks, intruded by dolerite. Two arrangements were available. After geotechnical investigations which included geological mapping, seismic refraction geo- physics, diamond drilling and mechanical rock testing, a single tunnel was selected in pre- ference to two short tunnels and a connecting pipeline. The tunnel is hydraulically equivalent to a fully lined tunnel 1.83 m in diameter and 5 580 m long. The alignment diverged from a straight line so that the initial upstream section was almost normal to the contours which allowed for minimal support requirements in a weathered zone. Although steel and con- crete lining was needed at both ends, the main section of the tunnel was unlined except for a concrete floor. A sand and rock trap with a capacity of 46 m3 was constructed near the outlet portal to collect debris and sand down to a size of about 2 mm. Portal excavations were in highly to completely weathered rock which extended 56 m into the tunnel at the upstream end, and 18 m at the downstream end. Conventional drilling and blasting were used for tunnel excavation with survey control by laser. Breakage lEngineering Geologist, Mines Department, Perth, W.A.

Jan 1, 1976

The products of Lower Miocene calc- alkaline activity on the east coast of Northland, New Zealand are described and contrasted with coeval rocks of the northern North Island. These rocks, the Eastern Volcanic Belt (EVB), occur in four main centres aligned north-west to south east as either plutonic/hyabyssal bodies or as agglomeratic piles and dyke intrusions. Significantly the plutonic members always occur to the north-west of the volcanic members, probably indicative of differential uplift along faults (upthrown to the north) aligned perpendicular to the EVB. A full basalt-rhyolite (diorite-granodiorite/ adamellite) spectrum is represented, with a temporal progression towards the silica-rich endmembers indicated by cross-cutting field relationships. Modal mineralogy parallels this trend, consisting of two-pyroxene, hornblende, biotite, quartz/alkali feldspar modal assemblages, and with rare occurrences of olivine and garnet-bearing volcanic phases. Chemically the EVB is medium-K, calc-alkaline (with respect to AFM and total-Fe/MgO vs. Si02 indices) and quartz and hypersthene normative. The thirty two available K-Prisotope dates indicate that activity was largely confined to the Lower Miocene (24Ma-16Ma), with an apparent younging towards the south east. Initial B7Sr/e Sr ratios (0.70335- 0.70679) are indicative of a continental- arc-type setting, however it is unlikely that a straightforward tectonic reconstruction for this part, of the Pacific Margin is possible. Evidence from xenoliths, both petrologic and isotope, within EVB magmas and from regional geologic studies suggests that hypotheses pertaining to a volcanic arc sited over a subduction zone may hold little relevance in this case. The review concludes that the EVB developed from the partial melting of a geochemically evolved lower crust as indicated by xenolith evidence. This occurred in response to thickening initiated by a short-lived obductive event in the uppermost Oligocene, and controlled spatially by pre-existing basement structure. Intra-suite chemical and mineralogic variation reflects not only crustal variability, but localized differences in physico-chemical conditions best illustrated by the rare occurrences of olivine and garnet.

Jan 1, 1987

The Kunwarara magnesite deposit is the largest known magnesite (MgCO3) deposit in Australia. It is located under black soil plains to the north of Rockhampton in Queensland. The deposit consists of magnesite nodules set in a fine-grained sandstone, siltstone and mudstone matrix. The magnesite is derived from weathering of serpentinite in adjacent hills and transport of magnesium in solution to a Tertiary/Quaternary river system. The magnesium has come out of solution in the active river system, and combined with atmospheric and biogenic CO2 to form magnesite nodules. The magnesite can be very pure with certain varieties up to 98 per cent MgO (LOI free). The deposit has been mined since 1991 and processed into magnesia (MgO) which is sold into refractory, agricultural and other markets. The geologist is an integral part of the small mine technical team. The role of the geologist includes characterisation of the ore through drilling and bulk sampling, supervision of geological aspects of mining and assistance in the optimisation of ore processing.

Jan 1, 2000

By F Sinaga, E Widijanto

PT Freeport IndonesiaÆs Deep Ore Zone (DOZ) mine is the new underground block caving mine within the East Ertsberg Skarn System (EESS) which started production in mid-2000. The DOZ will produce 25 000 tpd using mechanised block cave mining method and will be the fourth underground mine opened within the EESS deposit. A review of the DOZ extraction bolting design was conducted in November 2000. The aim of this review was to re-evaluate the effectiveness of the current design in relation to bolt length and spacing and to challenge some questions about the technical background of the design. For instance, the influence of the rock condition on the design. To review this bolting design, several books and papers are reviewed and several experienced people have been contacted to give their opinion. The methodology used for this review is:reviewing the technical background of current design; collecting ideas and alternatives; collecting data from books and personal communication and conducting analysis; and conclusion and proposed design.

Jan 1, 2002

By S S Solomons

In 1991 the uranium spot market price dropped to approximately US$7/Ib U308, a historical low in real terms and the short-term outlook for the industry in the next five years was grim. At this time the Ranger operation was producing uranium concentrate at its design capacity of approximately 3 000 tonnes/year. The loss of two major long-term contracts owing to price and reduced power utility demand due to excess inventories meant that the company could not match production to sales. Continuance at this production level would have resulted in a rapid buildup of product inventory and the tie-up of significant cash reserves. After analysing various options, an innovative operating strategy was devised such that production and sales were approximately balanced without a significant impact on the unit production cost or a long term effect on the plant or operation. A campaign mining/milling operation commenced and approximately 40 per cent of the workforce were retrenched. Multi-skilling of all employees was a critical aspect of ensuring a successful outcome. This paper examines the strategy and reports on the success of the operation two years after the restructuring exercise was effected in November 1991.

Jan 1, 1994

By R Bose, M Bovell, G Cheong

Grinding media is a major consumable in mineral processing and therefore decreasing costs associated with its consumption is regularly considered a key goal for the minerals processing industry. Grinding media manufacturers have historically developed steels with improved wear life for their products as a way of delivering incremental media quality improvement. This has included increasing carbon levels from low-to-medium carbon steels up to the eutectoid carbon composition of 0.77% where the relationship between higher carbon and better wear performance is well understood. Producers today will regularly use grades in excess of 0.8% to further improve wear performance particularly for rolled grinding media.This paper first introduces the demonstrated relationship between this increased carbon content and improved wear resistance along with metallurgical rationale behind the high carbon production process and limitations. To test the performance improvement associated with the higher carbon steel grade, a series of Marked Ball Wear Tests (MBWT) were carried out. This paper also explores the relationship between ball properties, test methodology and wear performance and concludes by correlating increased carbon grade with a reduced consumption rate of between 3.1% and 6.1% in the tests conducted.CITATION:Bovell, M, Bose, R and Cheong, G, 2018. Improved forged grinding media performance with carbon content greater than 1.0%, in Proceedings 14th AusIMM Mill Operators' Conference 2018, pp 559–570 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Aug 29, 2018

By G D. McDonald

Flinders Mines is an ASX300 iron ore explorer and developer with a tenement package located in the Hamersley Ranges region of Western Australia, approximately 70 km north of Tom Price. Exploration over the past three years has identified a Global Resource in excess of 740 Mt at a grade of 55.4 per cent Fe (+50 per cent Fe cut-off). This resource is spread across multiple deposits and has been divided into a number of mineralisation type domains based on geometallurgical and geochemical boundaries. These domains are comprised of transported haematite rich detrital iron deposits (DID) and goethite dominant Channel iron deposits (CID) as well as in situ bedded Brockman iron deposits (BID). On the basis of differences in physical and chemical characteristics, the DID have been divided into four discrete units. The four DID units form a stratigraphic sequence with the iron grade increasing and the contaminant concentrations decreasing with depth. The upper DID unit is lower grade and currently unlikely to provide a marketable product, without signifi cant beneficiation. The lower three DID units, together with the CID and BID, are of a higher quality and have the potential to yield marketable ore. The ability to define and recognise these different units has resulted in a more reliable and robust geological interpretation and hence greater confidence in the resulting resource model. This has been evident in the excellent conversion of inferred to indicated resources.

Jul 11, 2011

An improved technique for the quick and accurate measurement of the weight and centre of mass in the horizontal plane of large machines has been developed. On-site weighing of large plant such as bucket wheel dredgers is an important part of the commissioning procedure. The results from the weighing assist in determining the stability of the machine and also enable confirmation of the structural weight distribution used for stress analysis at the design stage. In this paper the techniques previously used for weighing are reviewed and the sources of error using these methods examined. A full descrip- tion of the current technique and procedure is given explaining how the measurement system comprising strain gauge load cells, displacement transducers, wind speed and direction sensors, data logger, computer and software was developed to enable quick and accurate measurements to be made. Proposed modifications to software necessitated by the replace- ment of current measuring instrumentation and computer are discussed. A typical example of measurements from the weighing of a large dredger, illustrating the accuracy of the new technique is given and the calibration technique used to check the accuracy of the force and moment measurements is explained. An outline of how the results are used to certify the machine for operation is given.

Jan 1, 1989

By D Roldpo, M Vidigal, J F. C L Costa

The local cumulative distribution function (lcdf) of a selective mine unit (SMU) can be estimated by conditional simulations using the statistics derived from the sample points, generating multiple equally probable scenarios. Conditional simulations permit the evaluation of the lcdf at any support, taking into account the spatial variability, ie the variogram, and the two statistical moments, mean and variance, of the conditioning samples. The SMU ore losses and dilution depend on the mining method and mining equipment selectiveness that, in its turn, depends on the predicted block size. A new approach to predict ore loss and dilution was developed in this study. Monte Carlo simulation is used to randomly generate a grade value derived from the lcdf at the mining stage (Zs_mc(t)) in order to make a decision about the SMU destination, ie processing plant (ORE) or waste dump (WASTE). If Zs_mc(t) is lower or equal to the cut-off (Z_cut-off) the block is ORE and, conversely, if Zs_mc(t) is higher than the cut-off (Z_cut-off) the block is WASTE. Considering these binary destinations ORE/WASTE, at the mining time t, and combining each realisation of the simulated random function Zcs_i (X), there are four possibilities for each SMU simulated value: 1. the block was simulated as ore and is actually ore (OO), 2. the block was simulated as ore and is actually waste (OW),3. the block was simulated as waste and is actually ore (WO), and 4. the block was simulated as waste and is actually waste (WW).The dilution factor is given by possibility 3 (WO), while the ore loss factor is represented by possibility 2 (OW). These results comprise the classical classification and reconciliation plots used in the mining industry. The new procedure proposed in this paper is based on the use of all the equally probable simulations to define the ore loss and dilution factors. An application of this methodology was carried out at Vale's iron mine in Brazil. The grade of silica was simulated and 50 multiple equally probable 3D models were generated. The mean and the standard deviation of the ore tonnage (OO + WO) for the 50 realisations, was 233 Mt and 0.5 Mt, respectively. The mean grade increased for the diluted ore (OO + WO) as well as their respective coefficient of variation (CV). The CV increases from 62 per cent in the undiluted ore (OO), to 101 per cent in the ore, considering the dilution factor (OO + WO). The mean ore loss (OW) was 10 Mt and the waste tonnage dilution (WO) was 9 Mt.

Jan 1, 2009

By C Simpson, J Market

The process of sampling blasthole cones utilising personnel to manually shovel material into sample bags is a long-standing industry accepted process. However, this method has several drawbacks, including the safety issues around having personnel performing manual sampling in a harsh environment and the variability involved in getting a human to repeatedly get a ‘shovel full of dirt’, and make it always representative. Geophysical blasthole sampling, or utilising a Downhole Assaying Tool (DHAT) has been tested and has now begun implementation at many iron ore sites throughout the Pilbara region, Western Australia. This method uses a geophysical tool to capture data within blastholes, and together with a semi-autonomous logging platform to minimise risks around manual handling, delivers a multielement proxy-assay which can be utilised by the mine geology team to accurately domain the orebodies. Logistically, the combination of a specially designed tool and semi-autonomous truck are the way forward for a safer and more data-robust blasthole sampling practice. The method utilises a neutrongenerating geophysical tool and linked elemental spectroscopy sensor, which measures the response of the material surrounding an open hole. This delivers results at submetre intervals. These results are then utilised, similar to blasthole sample results, to map out areas within the blast pattern that are ‘ore’, ‘waste’, or ‘other suitable grade’. This paper outlines a project that has been in ‘proof of concept’ at selected Fortescue sites over the last few years with testing of these tools carried out on reverse circulation (RC), diamond drill and blastholes. The method is now being implemented at operational hematite mine sites. Fundamentally, the method adds more than enough value to justify its implementation. The aim is that these learnings will enable the greater industry to adapt, implement and improve their mining practices. Ultimately, the outcome will be greater value in mining for the industry by having a larger volume of good quality data to make reliable decisions on material movements, minimising ore-loss and dilution, and maximising the value of our current and future orebodies.

Nov 8, 2021

By J Zhou, L Crompton, K P. Galvin, J L. Sutherland, C P. Lowes, C Bezuidenhout, J Bijzet

Platinum Group Metal (PGM) bearing ores from the Upper Group 2 (UG2) reef often contain significant concentrations of chromite which can potentially be upgraded to produce a saleable product. A common approach is to implement gravity separation on the PGM flotation circuit tailings. However, where the particle size range of interest is broad and the lower size limit ultra-fine, the challenge is how to maximise the recovery at a saleable product grade without compromising throughput. This study was concerned with the performance of a REFLUX™ Classifier for beneficiation of a PGM bearing chromite ore and the benefits of size classification. The sample had a nominal top size of 0.5 mm and was processed over the complete size range and in two discrete size classes following classification at 106 µm. The primary goal was to produce a concentrate exceeding 40 wt. per cent Cr2O3, ideally approaching 42 wt. per cent Cr2O3, with minimal PGM losses above 106 µm. A major challenge was to process at the required solids throughput in a single stage with the feed pulp density constrained to a nominal upper limit of 30 wt. per cent solids. It was found that varying the controller density set point of the REFLUX™ Classifier produced strong control of the product grade. Products as high as 41.1 wt. per cent Cr2O3 were produced at 78.6 per cent recovery for the +106 µm material, while in the −106 µm portion the product grade was as high as 41.4 wt. per cent Cr2O3 at 83.2 per cent recovery. Processing the feed in discrete size classes enabled the volumetric feed and fluidisation rates to be optimised for a given application; hence, superior performance was achieved at the finer sizes. This work has demonstrated the value in considering feed preparation as well as technology selection in developing a robust process solution.

Aug 24, 2022

All large open pits in Australia have been mined, or are planned to be mined well below the local water table. This raises several issues that impact on mine safety, mining costs and regulatory approvals. Some pits will be æwetÆ, where they are mined through permeable horizons and where there will be measurable groundwater inflows. These will require some form of dewatering. There may also be some difficulties in the disposal of excess water. Other pits, may be ædryÆ, where they are mined through impermeable material and there are no measurable groundwater inflows but where there are stability issues related to hydrostatic pressures within the pit walls. These may require some form of depressurisation. Some pits are a combination of both. Effective management of groundwater inflows and groundwater related stability issues and the development of cost effective and environmentally acceptable dewatering and depressurisation systems requires an understanding of site specific hydrogeological conditions and practical experience in what works best for different conditions. The presentation will include an outline of the key hydrogeological factors that impact on large pits, practical methodologies for achieving dewatering/ depressurisation, and some case studies from the Goldfields, Pilbara and North Queensland.

Jan 1, 2003

By A Cooper

The current financial climate has given rise to fears that falling mineral prices and tight credit will force mining companies to cut back on production and new project development in a bid to cut costs and conserve cash. However, a prolonged squeeze on global supply can have only one result: a massive and potentially explosive demand for metals in the not-too-distant future. A resurgent global economy will also generate dramatic new demand for oil and energy, with a return to higher oil prices likely. How then should the mining industry plan for the future? In-pit crushing and conveying (IPCC) could lead the way as a partial or complete substitute for trucks. In 13 of 15 studies undertaken by Sandvik and Snowden, comparing IPCC with truck-optimised pit designs, IPCC generated operating savings ranging from US$0.18 to US$0.82 per tonne moved, compared to trucks. Trucks have higher operating, maintenance and energy costs than conveyors. New emission standards on diesel engines may make them more emission friendly but less efficient in terms of energy usage. With far more efficient energy use and cheaper operating costs per tonne moved than trucks, conveying offers an attractive alternative for the bad times ahead and into the apparent energy depleted future. When evaluating alternatives, a reasonable first step would be to conduct a scoping level study which analyses the differences in capital and operating costs between a truck and shovel operation and an IPCC solution. The study can also determine what type of IPCC is best suited to the particular mining application. The results can then be used to decide whether a more detailed study is justifiable. IPCC is a proven process that, with a fresh mindset, can make a significant improvement to mining operations. Sandvik (as an OEM with a full suite of IPCC equipment) can undertake these studies in ten working days in conjunction with Snowden or any other independent mine planner who knows how to schedule for IPCC. Because most mining industry personnel have been æborn and bredÆ on trucks and shovels û this paper focuses on some of the practical considerations necessary to make IPCC systems work that the Sandvik Technical Services Group has encountered during these studies.

Jan 1, 2009

By D Manhire, G Hogan, M Ryan, S Whiteley

Site restoration at the L&M Mining Limited alluvial gold mining project at Waikaka near Gore, Southland is described. In 2000 mining operations started to recover alluvial gold beneath historical dredge tailings over 244 hectares in the flood plain of the Waikaka Stream. The project had an eight to nine year mine life but was prematurely closed in 2002 because of economic considerations. Restoration of the site back to pastoral farming, with shelter-belt and amenity tree, shrub, and wetland plantings is described. Dealings with the landowners and regulating authorities are addressed in the paper.

Jan 1, 2003

By Kentwell D. J, Cusak C. J, Harvey-Kelly F. E L, M D. Goodz

The Morning Star Gold Mine presents an example of a prolific operation with considerable historical records, mine workings, drill hole logs and countless plans from greater than 20 adjacent mines which have now been consolidated to form the current project. Implementation of 3D computer modelling in the planning stages has provided an additional tool to integrate and refine geological models as a guide to some exploration strategies. It has allowed for a re- interpretation of the host rock units, dimensional constraints, new exploration extensions and provisional resource modelling. The initial consideration of this project was to integrate 135 years of mining history into a single database. Each historic mining area had an unrelated mine grid, often established parallel to the long axis of their main stopes; some were based on magnetic or true north. Survey plans were in chain, imperial or metric units. Through the manipulation and rotation of old grids, previously unrelated mine workings began to form continuous mineralised zones, with unmined portions still remaining in between the existing development. Furthermore the current drillhole database of >433 holes showed numerous confirmatory intersections of new mineralisation. A series of tiered tables were created within a relational database to derive guidelines for assessing data to attribute a Mineral Prospectivity Value [MPV] based on key indicators of mineralisation. Indicator logging now forms the basis of geological descriptions.

Jan 1, 1997

By Barber C, Buselli G

Detailed monitoring of point sources of groundwater pollution is expensive due to the high cost of drilling monitoring boreholes. Whether groundwater pollution is due to mining, industrial or domestic waste disposal, a universal difficulty when monitoring groundwater contamination is the placement of boreholes to adequately define the extent of the pollution plume. This paper reports groundwater 'resistivity variations determined from transient electromagnetic soundings at a domestic waste disposal site north of Perth in Western Australia. Together with available hydrogeological and water quality data, the geophysics provides a broad "plume scale" picture of groundwater contamination. A simple three dimensional model of plume development, which takes account of the dimensions of the wastes, has also been developed and shows good agreement with the spread of contamination indicated by the geophysics for relatively small values of the dispersivities. Better estimates of these parameters are still required. The work indicates that a combination of geophysics and modelling with ground-truth data from groundwater quality monitoring of boreholes is required to avoid difficulties in interpretation of data and to better define the extent and migration of pollution in Groundwater.

Jan 1, 1988

The Research Centres Program initiated by the Federal Government and supported by the mining industry has had a major impact on geoscience research and education during the past five years. Eight major university based-Geoscience Research Centres are currently supported by the Government, including four Key Centres of Teaching and Research and a further four Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs). The Research Centres Program has led to a concentration of high quality research and teaching in areas of demand and strategic importance creating strong university - industry linkages and a source of well trained and motivated graduates. Over the last decade Australia's reputation as a leader in mineral exploration and ore deposit research has grown substantially, in part because of the development of the Research Centres Program, and to increased collaboration and interaction between research groups and exploration geoscientists across the industry. During a period when ore deposit research activity has been decreasing in other countries (eg USA, Canada, Japan and most European countries), equivalent research activities in Australia have been increasing, within a well co-ordinated national framework. The future challenge for universities and the mining industry will be to maintain the momentum of the successful research centres in order for the centres to become self-funding over a six- to nine-year period.

Jan 1, 1996

By E Williams

The role and importance of a well designed test work program during the development of an orebody is often underestimated. A test work program should be tailored to deliver very specific answers to relevant questions. With a clear purpose, the results from the test work program will enhance the outcome of the feasibility study and provide the information required to meet the requirements of all stakeholders. With regard to test work programs there are three main areas that should be considered: orebody characterisation and definition, process flow sheet development and engineering design information.Orebody definition relies on reliable analytical methods to characterise and assess the economic minerals present in the ground. In mineral sands, the physical processing characteristics of the minerals play a significant role in the definition of an orebody. The analytical method therefore has to be customised using a combination of laboratory techniques. These techniques can include heavy liquid separation, gravity separation and magnetic separation and are usually combined with chemical and mineralogical analyses to create a picture of the orebody. During the definition phase of test work programs, an appropriate analytical technique has to be developed to evaluate drilling samples, but also to support the information collected during flow sheet development.Process flow sheet development is usually done once there is a reasonable understanding of the size and variability of the orebody. Selecting the best sample for test work is critical, as any flow sheet design is tied to the specific characteristics of the sample used for development. There are other factors that can improve the outcomes of flow sheet development test work, including the skills and knowledge of the operator and allowing sufficient time to process and analyse the results. Very often this work is conducted under pressure with limited time and resources, only to result in a suboptimal flow sheet. During this phase of flow sheet test work, iterative testing will provide the information required to develop an optimal metallurgical flow sheet. The data collected will provide indicative recoveries and yields that are required for feasibility studies.Equipment specification is often included as part of process flow sheet development. This includes comparative test work between different equipment suppliers, assessment of operating conditions such as the loading to determine the number of processing units required, as well as other design information required such as particle size distributions, density and operating temperatures.While restricting the time and costs expended on test work programs may seem to meet a short term need to meet investor requirements, neglecting to develop a proper framework of the requirements that has to be met in the long-term can lead to significant long-term cost overruns. This is mainly due to a need to repeat test work, or do confirmation test work, as insufficient information was collected during the initial program.

Oct 5, 2011