The Importance of Accurate Stockpile Volumetric Estimation in Mining

by Prashant Singh

4 minute read

Published: March 13, 2025

The Importance of Accurate Stockpile Volumetric Estimation in Mining

Accurate estimation of stockpile volumes and efficient inventory management play a critical role in ensuring efficiency and profitability in the mining industry. Businesses across the globe are using volumetric estimation processes to determine the volume of bulk commodities kept in stockpiles, such as ores, minerals, and other aggregates. In this blog, we’ll explain what stockpile volumetric estimation is, how it works, and why drone technology is needed to achieve accurate estimation.

Understanding Stockpile Volumetric Estimation

Stockpile volumetric estimation is the process of determining the size, volume or weight of material in a stockpile by creating accurate 3D models. This process provides accurate insights into the quantity of materials stored, enabling effective inventory management, cost optimization and better operational planning.

Traditional Stockpile Measurement Methods

Some of the traditional stockpile measurement methods include manual surveys, terrestrial laser scanning, and manned aircraft surveys, all with varied accuracy and use cases. Manual surveys are labour-intensive, subject to human error, and require workers to navigate through uneven and hazardous terrain. Terrestrial laser scanning, on the other hand, is slightly more accurate but requires high setup costs and is time-consuming. Similarly, manned aircraft surveys are expensive, not environmentally friendly, and less accurate than today’s technology alternatives, such as drones.

Benefits of Accurate Stockpile Measurement with Drones

By overcoming the limitations of traditional methods, drones have transformed stockpile volumetric estimation. They enable accurate volume estimates using high-resolution images, thus minimizing waste in material use. Drones save time by allowing them to survey large areas/volumes and deliver results in a matter of hours. They also reduce labor and operating costs by automating operations, while ensuring safe working conditions by reducing the need for workers to be exposed to hazardous environments. Finally, drones have lower environmental repercussions compared to fuel-intensive methods like manned aircraft surveys.

Need for Accurate Stockpile Volumetric Estimation

Inventory Management - Accurate stockpile measurements allow businesses to keep precise inventory records, limiting overstocking or understocking of materials, optimizing resource use and reducing waste.
Project Planning - For accurate estimation of project deadlines and budgets, it is critical to know the exact quantity of materials available. Stockpile volumetric surveys provide reliable data needed to make informed decisions about material acquisition and usage
Resource Optimization - Businesses can streamline processes, reduce wasteful shipping expenditure, and make strategic decisions regarding site layout and storage with accurate volumetric data.
Compliance and Reporting - Volumetric surveys provide the necessary data for compliance and transparent monitoring required for detailed reporting on material stockpiles.
Risk Mitigation - In businesses where inventory is a major financial asset, inaccurate stockpile assessments can result in major financial losses. Volumetric surveys reduce this risk by giving exact data for proactive risk management.

Why Choose Drone Technology?

The integration of drones in mining operations offers transformative potential. High-resolution data capture ensures the creation of detailed 3D models, while automated workflows simplify the process from data collection to final reporting. Drones provide several key benefits, including:

Improved Accuracy: Advanced imaging technology allows for precise volume calculations, reducing inconsistencies and material waste.
Time Efficiency: Drones can survey large areas quickly, significantly shortening data collection and processing times.
Enhanced Safety: By eliminating the need for manual surveys in hazardous environments, drones prioritize worker safety and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Cost Savings: Drones offer cost-effective stockpile estimation due to automated operations and reduced labour expenses

The Role of ideaForge’s FLYGHT CLOUD

The FLYGHT CLOUD platform by ideaForge, provides a cutting-edge solution for stockpile volumetric estimation. The system automates the entire workflow, from capturing high-resolution data to processing and generating detailed reports. FLYGHT CLOUD achieves unparalleled precision and efficiency by combining modern drone technology and cloud-based computing, providing findings in less than 24 hours. The seamless integration of cutting-edge technology greatly improves resource management and decision-making capacities.

If you’re ready to transform your stockpile management processes, explore how FLYGHT CLOUD by ideaForge can help you achieve operational excellence. Sign up today and redefine efficiency in mining.