Simulation analysis model and equipment selection in continuous surface mining systems

CIM Journal, Vol. 4, No. 2, 2013

S. P. Upadhyay, Z. Lin, S. Sundararajan, and J. Szymanski University of Alberta, Markin/CNRL Natural Resources Engineering Facility, Edmonton, AB R. S. Suglo University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana

Fierce market competition and demand have made it imperative for mining companies to achieve higher productivity and operational efficiency. The selection of the best mining method and equipment combinations will enable companies to meet production and efficiency targets.  Continuous mining is increasingly preferred by companies for its high efficiency and low unit costs.  We developed simulation models for two continuous mining systems: the continuous surface miner (CSM) system and the at face slurrying (AFS) system.  Considering two different case studies, the paper discusses application of developed models to determine the optimal number of trucks and equipment capacities for the two systems.