5
We observed optimal outcomes within the phase size
range of 60 Mt to 75 Mt. Subsequently, we explored varia-
tions in mine capacity, ranging from 110 Mt to 225 Mt.
Conclusions—Case 1
This methodology, centered on concentric pits, exhibits
adaptability to specific requirements.
By employing an optimization approach with minimal
constraints, except for sensitivities, we gain a comprehen-
sive insight into the deposit’s behavior.
The optimal mining phase size ranges between 70–75
Mt of ore, accompanied by a recommended mine capacity
of 205- 225 Mt.
CASE STUDY 2—
MINE-PLANT CAPACITY OPTIMIZATION
The key variables in the development of a mining proj-
ect are the determination of Mining Capacity (CM) and
Processing Capacity (CP). In this regard, sensitivity analy-
sis is carried out with respect to various processing rates
(and potential mining capacities with operational incre-
ments that may include the capacity of the primary loading
equipment, such as electric shovels (~30 Mtpa) or hydrau-
lic shovels (~12 Mtpa)).
Methodology—Case 2
The methodology carried out for the development of this
case is presented.
A. Operational Criteria
Our analysis commences from a foundational standpoint,
based on the following operational criteria:
Table 2. Criteria
Criterion Und Value
Cap. Mine Mta 150
B. Mine and Plant Capacity Sensitivity
In pursuit of constructing a value curve, we take into
account the following sensitivities:
Table 3. Sensitivity
Criterion Start End Steps
Mine Capacity 135 240 8
Plant Capacity 65 100 5
C. Results and Hill of Value
The obtained results, along with the graphical representa-
tion of the “Hill of Value,” indicate that the optimal feed
for the plant is at 72.5 Mt, with a recommended mine
capacity starting from 180 ktpd.
Conclusions—Case 2
The application of this methodology supports the determi-
nation that the optimal feed for the plant is achieved at
72.5 Mt, with a recommended mine capacity starting from
180 ktpd to maximize process efficiency and performance.
This approach provides a solid foundation for strategic
decision-making within the scope addressed by this case.
CASE STUDY 3—
MULTI-MINE PIT SEQUENCING
HoV is proposed for application in the pursuit of optimal
sequencing for multi-mine operations, with the aim of
identifying the initial pits that contribute the highest value,
thereby maximizing NPV. In addition to determining the
Figure 6. Hill of Value
A. Operating Criteria
B. Mine and Plant Capacity Sensitivity
C. Results &Hill of Value
Figure 7. Process optimization strategy. Cut-off Grades and
Optimising the Strategic Mine Plan, B. Hall (2014)
Plant Feed (Mt)
NPV (US$M)
MC (Mt)
Figure 8. Hill of Value
We observed optimal outcomes within the phase size
range of 60 Mt to 75 Mt. Subsequently, we explored varia-
tions in mine capacity, ranging from 110 Mt to 225 Mt.
Conclusions—Case 1
This methodology, centered on concentric pits, exhibits
adaptability to specific requirements.
By employing an optimization approach with minimal
constraints, except for sensitivities, we gain a comprehen-
sive insight into the deposit’s behavior.
The optimal mining phase size ranges between 70–75
Mt of ore, accompanied by a recommended mine capacity
of 205- 225 Mt.
CASE STUDY 2—
MINE-PLANT CAPACITY OPTIMIZATION
The key variables in the development of a mining proj-
ect are the determination of Mining Capacity (CM) and
Processing Capacity (CP). In this regard, sensitivity analy-
sis is carried out with respect to various processing rates
(and potential mining capacities with operational incre-
ments that may include the capacity of the primary loading
equipment, such as electric shovels (~30 Mtpa) or hydrau-
lic shovels (~12 Mtpa)).
Methodology—Case 2
The methodology carried out for the development of this
case is presented.
A. Operational Criteria
Our analysis commences from a foundational standpoint,
based on the following operational criteria:
Table 2. Criteria
Criterion Und Value
Cap. Mine Mta 150
B. Mine and Plant Capacity Sensitivity
In pursuit of constructing a value curve, we take into
account the following sensitivities:
Table 3. Sensitivity
Criterion Start End Steps
Mine Capacity 135 240 8
Plant Capacity 65 100 5
C. Results and Hill of Value
The obtained results, along with the graphical representa-
tion of the “Hill of Value,” indicate that the optimal feed
for the plant is at 72.5 Mt, with a recommended mine
capacity starting from 180 ktpd.
Conclusions—Case 2
The application of this methodology supports the determi-
nation that the optimal feed for the plant is achieved at
72.5 Mt, with a recommended mine capacity starting from
180 ktpd to maximize process efficiency and performance.
This approach provides a solid foundation for strategic
decision-making within the scope addressed by this case.
CASE STUDY 3—
MULTI-MINE PIT SEQUENCING
HoV is proposed for application in the pursuit of optimal
sequencing for multi-mine operations, with the aim of
identifying the initial pits that contribute the highest value,
thereby maximizing NPV. In addition to determining the
Figure 6. Hill of Value
A. Operating Criteria
B. Mine and Plant Capacity Sensitivity
C. Results &Hill of Value
Figure 7. Process optimization strategy. Cut-off Grades and
Optimising the Strategic Mine Plan, B. Hall (2014)
Plant Feed (Mt)
NPV (US$M)
MC (Mt)
Figure 8. Hill of Value