Technical Consulting

For estimation and auditing of resources, NBL carries out work on preparation and validation of databases for subsequent resource modelling. Three dimensional computer models are developed using the GEMS system among others.  These data are also used for completion of Russian-standard resource and reserve reports (TEO) at different project stages, for mineral deposits as well as regional assessments, according to requirements of GKZ (State Commission on Reserves) of Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, and other FSU countries and elsewhere where requirements for preparation of engineering specifications are similar to those of Russia. The qualifications of NBL staff allow our company to prepare also JORC-compliant and NI 43-101 compliant reports on resources and reserves.

NBL staff are ready if necessary not only to perform works themselves, but also if necessary to assist clients in selecting contractors from among local or international companies or persons, for these or other types of work (with organisation and management of the tender process if required).

Thus, NBL is ready to assist in the preparation of (in the Russian context) "Technical Assignment" definition (or internationally, "Terms of Reference") and in discussion of conditions of performance of the defined work, and during the execution and completion of such work can monitor progress and quality, where appropriate assisting with conversion of results and reports between Russian and international formats.

In recent years, NBL has frequently participated in projects in the role of Technical Adviser (in International practice known as 'Owner’s Engineer'). The essence of this role - management and coordination for and on behalf of the Customer of exploration work (resource calculation etc) and work on mine design, planning and optimisation of waste disposal, mine-preparatory and mining works, designing of extraction and provision of associated documentation, the organisation of sampling, development of the testing programme, and preparation of production schedules, engineering-geological and hydro-geological studies. NBL participation in this role in most cases involves also the parallel execution of various technical studies both in Russian and International formats.

NBL has wide experience of participation in carrying out many such projects as lead contractor (with associated work under separate organisations and tenders, with or without any customer-contractor relationship among geographically dispersed participants, with a necessity for professional coordination and collation of the results of such works, and NBL being responsible for the overall success), and also in the role of subcontractor, working together with an international or local main contractor. We recommend to the clients an optimum structure of mutual relationships among all participants involved in a project, considering different options for the make-up and management of such joint groups.

As an independent form of consulting service NBL assists customers in carrying out contract auctions, tenders for execution of one or other kind of work, delivery, installation and adjustment of  capital equipment for exploration, laboratory, hard-rock or placer mining, and for mineral processing, and also for infrastructure required for exploration and mining.