Electric resistivity survey equipment for mining and exploration
One of the most useful geophysical survey techniques for mining and exploration companies is resistivity modelling. Using resistivity imaging equipment, experts are able to identify the locations of groundwater and mineral deposits, determine targets for new drilling programs and select suitable locations for tailings dams. In order to use this technology, you need specialised underground mining equipment that is designed to take resistivity measurements from the surrounding subsurface.
How Resistivity Modelling Helps to Find Minerals Deposits and Groundwater
When using mineral and groundwater exploration equipment that relies on resistivity methods, a current-carrying electrode is employed to measure the electric potential of the surrounding rocks and soils. Because the electrical potential will depend on the resistivity of the rocks and soils in question, which is dictated by their composition and volume, a resistivity survey can help to identify the type and quantity of both mineral deposits and groundwater in a given location.
Discovering Minerals with Resistivity Modelling
With high-quality resistivity imaging equipment, including a sensitive electrical resistivity meter, it is possible to survey large areas in a practical timeframe. In the process of such a survey, you may identify various regions in the subsurface with differing resistivity and use this information to determine the nature and possible location of mineral deposits in the area.
Among the types of deposits found with resistivity modelling are gold, nickel and carbon. To enhance the accuracy of survey results, resistivity data is often combined with magnetic and gravity data, and sometimes even seismic data too.
As well as its use in new exploration work, underground mining equipment of this type can be used to guide existing drilling programs. By ruling out areas with no mineral deposits, a more efficient program can be followed.
With additional software, resistivity data can be overlaid on maps, making it easier to visualise where each mineral deposit is located.
Locating Groundwater with Resistivity Modelling
Resistivity modelling is frequently used to locate groundwater in areas where mining is planned. Most often this is to help in the extraction and processing of mineral deposits but not always. When the planned depth of a mine goes below the local groundwater table, it is vital to know the exact location of nearby underground reservoirs for safety purposes.
With the latest geophysical instruments for groundwater investigations that deliver accurate resistivity data, mining companies are able to complete extensive aquifer mapping surveys that cover large geographical areas. Owing to the different resistivity measurements that different bodies of water produce, it is possible to identify both saturated freshwater and saturated saltwater areas with these instruments.
When using resistivity modelling to identify the boundaries of underground reservoirs, 3D modelling is widely considered to produce more accurate results than 2D modelling.If you are interested in finding out more about the type of resistivity imaging equipment we have available, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. As geophysical specialists, we provide professional exploration support, including consultation services and an extensive range of high-quality instrumentation for geophysical surveys.
