The JKMRC has published its fourth monograph in the JKMRC Mining and Mineral Processing series. “An Introduction to Metal Accounting and Balancing” was edited by Dr Rob Morrison of the JKMRC with contributions from the Code Development Team and from recognised experts in their fields of application. The monograph addresses the need for a more standardised approach to metal accounting in the mineral industry and is a product of the AMIRA P754 project, Metal Balancing and Reconciliation. The research project generated a Code of Practice for Metal Accounting. The Code is in its third release and is finding rapid uptake in the mineral industry.

The Code of Practice provides principles, objectives and guides while the monograph is much more a text book and a guide to “how to do it”.

The monograph begins with an overview of the objectives and process of metal accounting. Chapters 2 to 6 provide a detailed guide to process measurement and data management. Chapters 7 to 9 detail data analysis and reporting.

The remaining 8 chapters cover metal accounting for specific processes from heap tailing to gold and precious metal (Au and Pt) concentrators through hydromet and pyromet applications and conclude with a comprehensive guide to accounting of the coal preparation and production train. One application chapter looks to the future with a strategy for metal balancing the ore deposit to final products.

As many of the data measurement and data analysis techniques are essentially the same as those required for process development and research, the monograph may also provide a useful reference for mineral processing students and professionals.

“A monograph is normally reserved as a medium to disseminate significant bodies of research and Dr Morrison has excelled in this task” Professor Ben Adair, Director of JKMRC.

The monograph is available from the JKMRC website and the SAIMM.