Performance Evaluation of a Haul Truck Allocation Model in Sungun Copper Mine

Mirzaei Nasir Abad, Hossein; Mohtasham, Mehrnaz; Rahimzadeh-Nanekaran, Farshad

doi:10.22044/jme.2024.13932.2597

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

Faculty of Mining Engineering., Sahand University of Technology, Tabriz, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22044/jme.2024.13932.2597

Abstract

Transportation of materials is the most cost-intensive component in open-pit mining operations. The aim of the allocation models is to manage and optimize transportation activities, leading to reduced wasted time, and ultimately, increasing profitability while reducing operational costs. Given that the implementation of allocation models is one of the essential requirements in Iranian mining operations, this research work focuses on the transportation system in the Sungun copper mine, one of the largest mines in Iran, and highlights the challenges faced by the fixed allocation approach. The aim is to develop and implement a mathematical model to evaluate its performance, and suggest improvements. The allocation model attempts to optimize truck capacity utilization and maximize mining production. Implementing the model in the mine results in a 13.42% increase in total production compared to the conventional method, with a cost increase of 14.7%. The model shows the potential to meet operational and technical constraints to achieve optimal production. Overall, the developed model, with optimized management and improved fleet efficiency, outperforms the traditional haulage method in the mine.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Loading & Transportation

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Performance Evaluation of a Haul Truck Allocation Model in Sungun Copper Mine

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Volume 15, Issue 4October 2024Pages 1527-1537

Volume 15, Issue 4
October 2024
Pages 1527-1537