Table 2 Summary of key reference points used for production reporting, including their definition, associated metrics, and relevant technical attributes.
From: A dataset on metal-related production activities and their socio-environmental impacts in Canada
Reference point | Boundaries | Production metrics | Technical attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
Total extraction | Material extracted at the mine entrance (e.g., pit exit or underground portal), prior to transport or sorting | Total mass extracted or ore contained in mass extracted | Ore grade (% or ppm) |
Crude ore | Material entering the mill or concentrator (mill feed) | Total mass processed or ore contained in mass processed | Head grade (% or ppm) |
Usable ore | Output from beneficiation processes, such as flotation or leaching | Concentrate mass or contained metal in concentrate | Concentrate grade (% or ppm), Recovery rate (%), Yield (% or ppm) |
Intermediate metal produced | Output from smelting processes (e.g. matte, blister metal) | Mass of intermediate metal | Smelter recovery |
Refined metal produced | Final market-grade product obtained from refining, suitable for downstream use or trade. | Refined metal output | Refining recovery |
