S. Burks
This paper develops the themes explained at the previous SAIMM Platinum conference by Whittle and Burks. Optimization techniques can significantly increase the value of mining businesses by enabling better long-term planning decisions. This study evaluates open pit and underground mine design, mine scheduling, cut-off grade and blending, stockpiling, and links these to metallurgical recovery processes. Additionally, transport or sale of intermediate products and market requirements are considered. Experience indicates that net present value (NPV) can be enhanced by 5-35 percent or more, often even before substantial project capital expenditure. The case studies presented encompass an operation comprising multiple open pits and PGM concentrators linked to offsite processing, an operation with an integrated portfolio of mines and processing plants prioritizing sources of ore, an underground operation in Zimbabwe calculating optimum mining width and evaluating expansion plans, and a mine with diverse sections developing a schedule to maintain capacity with high-value material throughout its lifespan. The concluding section provides strategic recommendations on how to implement the optimization findings effectively.
@article{9f62ddaa-17af-4c34-8c15-f4b47533b291,
title={Case studies of simultaneous mining and},
author={S. Burks},
year={2026},
language={en}
}TY - JOUR TI - Case studies of simultaneous mining and AU - S. Burks PY - 2026 LA - en ER -
FATHI HABASHI
In the past few years, extractive metallurgy has been advancing gradually, despite the absence of remarkable new ideas. This paper aims to summarize t
Mark E. Schlesinger, Matthew J. King
This book presents a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of copper extraction metallurgy. The objective is to provide both a theore
The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
This conference, held in Perth, Western Australia, focuses on the latest advancements in metallurgical processing plant design and operational strateg
P Card, J Canterford
This document presents a collection of papers from the METPLANT 2011 conference focusing on metallurgical plant design and operating strategies. The o
Unknown, Unknown
This chapter discusses metal casting processes, highlighting the diversity and common characteristics among them. The objective is to elucidate the fu