Open Pit Mine Design

Summary

Topics covered:

Input Parameters and Mine Design

• Construction of block models.
• Smelter contracts.
• Algorithms for the computation of the limit of the pit.
• 3D Moving Cone and Lerchs Grossman.
• Long term mine planning.
• Development of sequences of push-backs.
• Ramp position.
• Ramp and Pit design using AutoCad ®
• Topography and location of plants and tailing dams
• Economics, Cash Flow and Rate of Return.

Equipment Selection

• Shovels (cable & hydraulic), front end loaders and trucks.
• Equipment Selection.
• Excavation with shovels etc.
• Performance of trucks and loaders.
• Planning and minimization of the truck fleet.
• Trolley assist and in-pit crushing and conveying.
• Operating costs.
• Mine electrical systems.
• Dewatering of the pit.

Planning and mining operation, maintenance and other topics

• Short term mine planning.
• Grade and production control.
• Supervision and operation in the pit.
• Operating budget.
• Blasting technology for the rock.
• Equipment maintenance.
• Mining using contractors.
• Draglines and range diagrams for coal etc.
• Environmental impact
• Global positioning.
• Geographic Information Systems.
• Open pit environmental and closure topography.

Who Should Attend?

Attendees would include persons with expertise in specific areas of the mining industry who need to interface to the broader spectrum of the business, or those requiring a refresher in their field. For those with limited or no technical background, the course will provide a more than basic introduction to open pit mining, enabling the attendee to ask the right questions and make informed decisions.