Metashape for Mining and Quarry Monitoring: Volume Reports and Change Detection

Agisoft Metashape has emerged as a powerful tool in the mining and quarrying industry, thanks to its ability to turn drone images into precise 3D models and geospatial data. From calculating extraction volumes to monitoring topographic changes, Metashape helps professionals increase accuracy and efficiency across operations. In this article, we explore how to use Metashape for volume reporting and change detection in mining environments.

Why Use Photogrammetry in Mining?

Traditional ground surveys in mines and quarries are time-consuming, risky, and often limited in coverage. Photogrammetry with drones offers a safer, faster alternative that captures high-resolution georeferenced images from the air. When processed in Metashape, these images deliver highly detailed 3D models, point clouds, and orthophotos for analysis and measurement.

• Non-invasive and safe for active extraction sites
• Faster data acquisition (minutes instead of days)
• Repeatable surveys for long-term monitoring
• Lower operational costs compared to LiDAR

1. Flight Planning and Data Capture

For accurate volume calculation and surface change detection, consistent data capture is critical. Use a drone with a high-resolution RGB camera and plan missions with 80% front overlap and 60% side overlap. Fly at a constant altitude and capture oblique images if possible for complex terrain.

Use Ground Control Points (GCPs) or RTK-enabled drones to ensure high geospatial accuracy. Capture the entire extraction zone, stockpiles, and surrounding topography.

2. Processing Images in Metashape

Import the images into Metashape and follow this general workflow:

• Align Photos – Use “High” or “Medium” accuracy for optimal tie point generation
• Build Dense Cloud – Choose “High” or “Medium” quality with “Mild” filtering
• Build Mesh (optional) – Useful for visualization or simulation
• Build DEM (Digital Elevation Model) – Select the appropriate projection and resolution
• Build Orthomosaic – Useful for visual inspections and reporting

Check the reference pane to verify camera positions, error margins, and GCP accuracy before proceeding with measurements.

3. Calculating Volumes

Once the DEM is generated, Metashape can calculate volumes of stockpiles, pits, or extraction zones. Use the “Measure Area and Volume” tool to draw a polygon around the desired area. Define a base plane—either flat or custom based on surrounding elevation—to generate accurate cut-and-fill metrics.

Reports can be exported in CSV format and include:

• Area in m²
• Volume in m³
• Cut/fill distribution
• Base elevation

These reports are invaluable for auditing, logistics, and production planning.

4. Detecting Changes Over Time

To monitor terrain deformation, landslides, or extraction progress, you can compare DEMs or orthophotos from different survey dates. This is done through the “Raster Calculator” or DEM differencing in external GIS software like QGIS.

Steps:

• Align both Metashape projects using the same GCPs or coordinate system
• Export the DEMs from both projects
• Use raster subtraction to create a change map
• Visualize changes with color ramps and thresholds

This process reveals areas of cut, fill, erosion, or subsidence with sub-decimeter accuracy.

5. Best Practices for Mining Projects

• Use fixed drone flight paths and GCPs for repeatable surveys
• Survey at regular intervals (weekly or monthly) for consistent monitoring
• Maintain a standard processing workflow in Metashape for comparability
• Use Metashape’s batch processing or Python scripts to automate large projects
• Export to formats compatible with CAD, GIS, and mine planning tools (e.g., GeoTIFF, DXF, LAS)

6. Exporting Results and Reporting

Metashape supports exporting your results in a wide range of formats, making it easy to integrate data into enterprise software or share with stakeholders. Recommended exports include:

• DEM – GeoTIFF for terrain analysis
• Orthomosaics – PNG/TIFF for visual documentation
• Point Clouds – LAS/LAZ for engineering or modeling
• Volume Reports – CSV for Excel or ERP systems

Conclusion

Agisoft Metashape enables mining and quarry professionals to make data-driven decisions with accurate 3D modeling and change detection. From capturing site images to delivering actionable reports, Metashape streamlines the entire workflow—saving time, improving safety, and boosting operational transparency. Whether you’re tracking stockpile volumes or detecting terrain changes, Metashape proves to be a smart investment for modern mine management.