Title: Hierarchical mine production scheduling using discrete-event simulation

Authors: Eugene Ben-Awuah, Samira Kalantari, Yashar Pourrahimian, Hooman Askari-Nasab

Addresses: Mining Optimization Laboratory (MOL), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, 3-133 Markin/CNRL Natural Resources Engineering Facility, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2W2, Canada. ' Mining Optimization Laboratory (MOL), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, 3-133 Markin/CNRL Natural Resources Engineering Facility, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2W2, Canada. ' Mining Optimization Laboratory (MOL), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, 3-133 Markin/CNRL Natural Resources Engineering Facility, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2W2, Canada. ' Mining Optimization Laboratory (MOL), Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, 3-133 Markin/CNRL Natural Resources Engineering Facility, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2W2, Canada

Abstract: Mine planning involves different levels of decision-making depending on the time horizon under consideration. The main goal of this study is to develop a discrete-event simulation model to link long-term predictive mine plans with short-term production schedules in the presence of uncertainty. We have developed, verified and validated a discrete-event simulation model for open pit production scheduling using the SLAM simulation language. The simulation model takes into consideration constraints and uncertainties associated with mining and processing capacities, crusher availability, stockpiling strategy and blending requirements. Application of the simulation model is presented by an iron ore open pit mine case study.

Keywords: open pit mining; strategic planning; discrete event simulation; mining capacity; processing capacity; crusher availability; stockpiling strategy; blending; crushing system; production scheduling; mine planning; long-term planning; predictive mine plans; uncertainty.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMME.2010.035314

International Journal of Mining and Mineral Engineering, 2010 Vol.2 No.2, pp.137 - 158

Published online: 21 Sep 2010 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article