Ore Flow, Fragmentation and Draw Control

Better understanding of the flow means better control of the cave—leading to safer, more efficient, and more predictable production in block and panel caving operations.

Through reliable flow assessment, ITASCA engineers can anticipate draw rates, interaction between drawpoints, dilution entry, hang-ups, air gaps, and uneven material movement. This supports the correct positioning, spacing, and sequencing of drawpoints, as well as the design of extraction levels, undercut layouts, and material handling systems.

Our services in this area include:

  • Evaluation of drawpoint spacing and draw strategies to balance recovery, dilution, and geomechanical constraints.
  • Support for draw control systems through quantitative predictions of flow patterns, mixing, and grade distribution.
  • Primary and secondary fragmentation assessments and flow modelling of caved rock (e.g., MassFlow, CAVESIM) to understand draw behavior and hang-up potential.
Latest News
  • ITASCA Strengthens North American Delivery of Integrated Geomechanics and Hydrogeology Solutions Drawing on decades of geomechanical and hydrogeological expertise, ITASCA has announced the formation of ITASCA...
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  • WEBINAR: Solving Geothermal Challenges with XSite Numerical Modeling ITASCA Software and Baker Hughes are hosting a collaborative webinar to demonstrate how combining advanced...
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  • Itasca has announced the release of FLAC2D v9 Itasca has announced the release of FLAC2D v9, revolutionizing the way we analyze and predict...
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Upcoming Events
11 Aug
ITASCA Joins Caving 2026 as a Main Sponsor
We are pleased to announce that ITASCA will be participating as a Main Sponsor in Caving 2026, the leading international conference ded... Read More
15 Sept
ITASCA at EUROCK 2026: Advancing Innovation in Rock Engineering
ITASCA is pleased to announce its participation in EUROCK 2026 – ISRM Regional Symposium, taking place from 15–19 September 2026 in Sko... Read More
20 Sept
ITASCA to Participate in CouFrac 2026
ITASCA will be participating in CouFrac 2026, taking place from 20–23 September 2026 in Uppsala, Sweden. The conference brings together... Read More