SMS has extensive ‘pit-to-port’ experience across the mining industry – including coal, copper, iron ore and hard rock mining. This experience encompasses underground and open-pit mining, haulage, stockpiling, maintenance planning, materials handling and transport.
South32, BHP, Rio Tino, Newcrest, New Hope Group, Fortescue Metals Group, Yancoal
SMS undertook modelling and analysis of a complex coal transportation system for a coal stockpiling and logistics upgrade project.
SMS modelled the ore handling system associated with a block cave copper mining operation in South America, encompassing the extraction of ore from over 500 draw points and its delivery to six underground crushing stations. The model helped to estimate equipment requirements and assess the feasibility of the proposed mine layout.
SMS produced a simulation of a proposed cave development to evaluate alternative designs and explore the impact of various infrastructure arrangements on production. The model was used to develop a strategy for the scheduling of operations and to understand the expected consequences of different rock fragmentation scenarios once production commenced. Several additional studies built on the original model to support further developments at the site.
SMS produced a simulation of a proposed cave development to evaluate alternative designs and explore the impact of various infrastructure arrangements on production. The model was used to develop a strategy for the scheduling of operations and to understand the expected consequences of different rock fragmentation scenarios once production commenced. Several additional studies built on the original model to support further developments at the site.
SMS modelled underground rail logistics to review and optimise the removal, reconditioning and return of longwall roof chocks to avoid rail traffic congestion and minimise lost production time. The modelling allowed the quantitative assessment of alternative strategies and their implementation costs against likely production losses.
SMS developed simulation models of open-pit mine and transportation infrastructure to evaluate various development proposals and modes of operation, with a focus on the handling, stockpiling and processing of coal. The primary areas modelled included shovel and trucking operations, stockpile management and coal washery operations.
SMS developed a simulation model of a complex raw coal transportation system to address bottlenecks and inadequate storage. Relatively minor infrastructure upgrades were recommended, avoiding anticipated new stockpiles or other major investment. The model was then available for ongoing use, to support decision making for other proposed projects and upgrades.
