An integrated methodology for the design and assessment of cave mining ore handling systems

Authors: Silva, D Download Paper

Cite As:
Silva, D 2024, 'An integrated methodology for the design and assessment of cave mining ore handling systems', in Daniel Johansson & Håkan Schunnesson (eds), MassMin 2024: Proceedings of the International Conference & Exhibition on Mass Mining, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, pp. 845-857.



Abstract:
Cave mining ore handling systems represent one of the largest expenses in underground mining. Especially when the scope is from draw points to mill, the system’s productivity and its cost can significantly impact the value of mining projects and operations. In recent years the increase in mineral production using mass mining methods has led to significant progress in extraction techniques which, at the same time, has demanded significant advances in ore handling systems. As consequence, this paper states that ore handling systems can be designed and assessed to match the future conditions and production demand better, while considering the underlying principles of material handling, specifically for underground mining, and supplemented by simulation and economic valuation. A panel cave mining project in Australia was used to test the proposed integrated methodology, showing a real case example of the application, the main results are included at the end.