Webinar: Seam 3D Modeling – Challenges and Effective Solutions

Introduction and Webinar Overview (0:22)

Welcome to today’s webinar by K-MINE, led by Anna from our business development team. Today we explore advanced seam 3D modeling techniques critical for accurate geological modeling, reserve estimation, and effective mine planning. Follow our LinkedIn page for the latest mining insights and future webinar announcements.

Importance of Accurate Seam 3D Modeling (0:41)

Seam deposits, with multiple layers, require substantial time and effort to build precise geological models. These models are essential for accurate reserve estimations and optimized mine planning. Data used in 3D modeling is diverse, including:

• Topographic surveys

• Drilling outcomes

• Geological cross-sections

• Geophysical and geochemical survey data

• Outcrop maps

• Geological maps and contour charts

• Specialized geological diagrams

• Observations from quarries and mines

Data arrives in various formats such as databases, graphical illustrations, text reports, and detailed models.

About K-MINE (1:40)

Founded in 1994, K-MINE has grown extensively across Europe, the USA, and Canada. Our multidisciplinary team of developers, geologists, and mining engineers specializes exclusively in mining software solutions. We support the full mining lifecycle—from exploration to production—delivering tailored solutions suitable for both small operations and major enterprises.

K-MINE offers 12 seamlessly integrated software modules, each customizable according to operational needs. Our software supports real-time IoT monitoring, integrates with dispatch systems, and provides continuous control over mining operations. Our expertise covers a wide range of hard rock commodities, emphasizing critical minerals and compliant reporting aligned with NI 43-101, S-K 1300, and JORC standards.

Seam Modeling Methods Explained (3:48)

Today’s webinar addresses key topics including:

• Grid Seam Modeling (GSM) vs. Horizon Adaptive Rectangular Prism (HARP)

• Seismic surveying and geophysical logging

• Handling structured vs. unstructured deposits

• Faults, seam splitting, pinch-outs, and washouts

• Geostatistical methods and simulation techniques

We’ll clarify industry-specific terms like “seam,” “stratigraphic,” “drill holes,” and “boreholes,” used interchangeably throughout.

Grid Seam Modeling (GSM) vs. Horizon Adaptive Rectangular Prism (HARP) (4:45)

Few mining software packages offer fully integrated 3D geological modeling and even fewer extend into production planning. K-MINE stands out by integrating advanced geological modeling algorithms, particularly the Horizon Adaptive Rectangular Prism (HARP) model.

• Grid Seam Modeling (GSM): Uses interpolation points in grids, ideal for thin horizontal deposits like coal seams, phosphate layers, or limestone beds.

• HARP Model: Developed by K-MINE, HARP offers a hybrid stratigraphic block model representing geological boundaries more accurately. It eliminates stepped boundaries by using adaptive prisms, providing precise layer thicknesses and smooth transitions.

HARP’s advantages include:

• Enhanced representation of complex geological structures (faults, reverse folds)

• Precise volume calculations and improved mine planning efficiency

• Rapid model updates as new geological data becomes available

Advanced Modeling Techniques and Features (9:15)

Creating geological models in K-MINE involves defining a reference marker surface and calculating layer thickness from drill hole data. The software can integrate additional data—like surface topography and fault zones—to improve accuracy, particularly in structurally complex deposits.

Advanced features for modeling complex scenarios include:

• Handling of tectonic blocks separated by faults

• Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation with anisotropy settings

• Pinch-out seam adjustments to accurately represent wedging seams

• Tools for managing steeply dipping or overturned geological sequences

• Direct calculation of true seam thickness within the model for steep deposits

Improving Accuracy with Correction Markers and Virtual Drill Holes (17:10)

K-MINE offers correction markers, allowing precise adjustments of bed positions and thicknesses. Additionally, it provides tools for transforming block models into wireframe surfaces and creating virtual drill holes for improved interpolation in areas with limited data.

Managing Seam Splitting and Geological Complexity (19:55)

K-MINE supports detailed management of mother and daughter seams, recalculating thicknesses based on interpolations or defined ratios. This is crucial in deposits with splitting coal seams or complex layering.

Structured vs. Unstructured Deposits (21:21)

Deposits generally fall into two categories:

• Structured Deposits: Mineralization strongly influenced by geological structures like bedding or faults (coal, stratiform metals, iron ore).

• Unstructured Deposits: Boundaries based on arbitrary grade cut-offs, requiring different modeling approaches.

Understanding these differences is vital for accurate resource modeling and geological interpretation.

Incorporating Geophysical Data and Logging (24:06)

Geophysical logs significantly enhance seam correlation, providing essential physical property data that supports visual identification of marker beds. Logs commonly used include natural gamma, density logs, acoustic televiewers, and resistivity tools, contributing critical structural and geological continuity information.

Innovations in Geological Modeling and Resource Estimation (26:13)

Significant advancements in geological modeling include:

• Seismic data integration to confirm geological continuity

• Enhanced geophysical logging (borehole imaging, televiewers)

• Geostatistical methods (inverse distance weighting, kriging methods)

• Improved surface modeling algorithms

However, traditional geological mapping and expert judgment remain critical, supplementing technological methods to ensure rigorous and accurate resource modeling.

K-MINE’s Comprehensive Geological and Mine Planning Solutions (27:19)

K-MINE offers a comprehensive mining software suite, addressing production challenges with integrated models for geological accuracy, efficient mine planning, real-time monitoring, and seamless resource management.