Role of On-Line Analysis in Quality Control of Iron Ore

Quality and process control in the iron ore industry is based on measurements of ore grade from blast holes through to shiploading. Traditionally this has been carried out using conventional sampling, sample preparation and analysis methods, but on-line analysers are now being introduced for monitoring the grade of important process streams. Once a conventional sample has been collected, it can be analysed for a wide range of elements. On the other hand, on-line analysers measure only a few selected elements, but they provide rapid feedback on grade, which is important for effective quality and process control. In both cases, the linkage between mining, processing and final blending operations at the port is crucial to ensuring that product quality is maintained while production targets are met and the life of the resource is maximised.