Advanced Analytics for Surface Extraction

CHAPTER DESCRIPTION

The global mining industry is under pressure. In the short term, falling commodity prices are squeezing cash flow. Looking ahead, many existing surface mines are maturing, resulting in the extraction of lower ore grades and longer haul distances from the mine face; ore-body-replacement rates are in decline, and new surface mine-development times are increasing. The mining industry has shifted its focus to improving productivity by “sweating” existing assets, but this strategy will go only so far. Despite the industry’s booms and busts, the nature of surface mining has stayed the same for decades. Achieving a breakthrough in productivity performance demands rethinking how mining works. The potential to achieve such a breakthrough is now coming within the industry’s reach through digital and technology innovations that could transform key aspects of mining. This chapter provides a comprehensive study on the role of advanced analytics in surface mining operations, including open-pit planning and design, mechanical extraction, loading, hauling, equipment selection, and maintenance.

CHAPTER CONTENT

• Introduction to Surface Mining
• Open-Pit Planning and Design
• Mechanical Extraction, Loading, and Hauling
• Selection and Sizing of Excavating, Loading, and Hauling Equipment
• In-Pit Crushing
• Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Haul Roads
• Strip Mining
• Highwall Mining
• Summary