Analysis of the application of geological exploration technology in the Shuichang Iron Mine

To address the growing demand for mineral resources driven by socioeconomic development and technological advancement, this study aims to explore efficient and cost - effective geological exploration technologies for ensuring the stable supply of mineral resources to support continuous industrial development. Using Shuichang Iron Mine of Shougang Group Mining Company as a case study, the research analyzes the mine’s resource-strained situation and the need for exploration. After evaluating multiple exploration technologies, a combined drilling and physical exploration method is adopted. Implemented between 2016 and 2017, this approach utilizes drilling to obtain direct core samples and physical exploration to rapidly gather extensive geological data, enhancing the accuracy of resource estimation. The study finds that this integrated method significantly improves the mine’s resource reserve estimation accuracy. Specifically, the resource/reserve classification at Shuichang Iron Mine is upgraded from inferred to indicated, with a roughly 20% increase in resource quantity. This satisfies the resource planning requirements for open - pit and underground mining operations. The findings suggest that employing diverse modern exploration technologies can reduce exploration costs, improve efficiency and accuracy. This serves as a technological reference for similar mineral resource development enterprises. It also promotes a shift towards a low-cost, high-efficiency green exploration model in the industry, helping to ensure the sustainable supply of China’s mineral resources and the stable operation of its industrial system.