Title: Production optimisation using simulation models in mines: a critical review

Authors: M. Govinda Raj, Harsha Vardhan, Y.V. Rao

Addresses: Department of Mining Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, P.O. Srinivasnagar – 575025 (D.K), Karnataka, India. ' Department of Mining Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, P.O. Srinivasnagar – 575025 (D.K), Karnataka, India. ' National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal – 506004, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract: The mining industry is faced with the task of responding to increased demand for mineral resource products, decreasing ore grades, stringent quality requirements and strict environmental regulations in trying to meet the demands of the economy. This situation has necessitated the search for more scientific and technological innovations that enable profitable mining like simulation studies. In this paper, system simulation studies in underground and open-pit mines, shovel–truck simulation have been discussed in detail. The study shows wide applicability of simulation studies in various operations in both underground and open-pit mines.

Keywords: mining industry; operational research; production optimisation; simulation; materials handling; stoping operations; shovel truck selection; drilling; blasting; modelling; quality control; environmental regulation; underground mines; open pit mines.

DOI: 10.1504/IJOR.2009.026937

International Journal of Operational Research, 2009 Vol.6 No.3, pp.330 - 359

Published online: 09 Jul 2009 *

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