Abstract
A method that optimizes mining complexes which are comprised of multiple processing destinations, open pits and underground operations is presented. Mining, blending, processing and transportation decision variables are simultaneously optimized while accounting for geological uncertainty. The method uses a simulated annealing algorithm at different decision levels in order to generate a stochastic-based extraction sequence and processing policies. A case study shows its ability to generate a higher NPV while facing a reduced amount of risk when compared to traditional optimization methods.
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Acknowledgements
We would like to thank the organizations and companies who funded this research: Canada Research Chairs (Tier I) in Sustainable Mineral Resource Development and Optimization under Uncertainty, and NSERC Collaborative Research and Development Grant CRDPJ 411270-10, entitled Developing new global stochastic optimization and high-order stochastic models for optimizing mining complexes with uncertainty; industry collaborators: AngloGold Ashanti, Barrick Gold, BHP Billiton, De Beers, Newmont Mining and Vale, and NSERC Discovery Grant 239019. Particular thanks to Mern Vatcha from Barrick for his generous contribution.
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Appendix 1—Stochastic Solution with Initial Stockpiles
Appendix 1—Stochastic Solution with Initial Stockpiles
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Montiel, L., Dimitrakopoulos, R., Kawahata, K. (2018). Simultaneously Optimizing Open-Pit and Underground Mining Operations Under Geological Uncertainty. In: Dimitrakopoulos, R. (eds) Advances in Applied Strategic Mine Planning. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-69320-0_16
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-69320-0_16
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