Dilution
Open pit dilution averages 15-24%. Underground sublevel dilution averages
approximately 15-20%. Underground Panel dilution averages approximately 25-30%.
Panel extraction has been from Big Bend and Central Zone.
Due to geotechnical issues, Kupol has experienced unplanned dilution which has had
impact on the estimation. Additional ground support has assisted to minimize
unplanned dilution.
The average dilution figure was determined from the Feasibility Study and from
experience gained during mining of panels. During the year, dilution assumptions were
reasonable.
Several cuts in the open pit and several stopes in the underground confirm that the
algorithms used were correctly implemented, and that confirmation comprised manual
checking for these blocks.