Author(s)

J.E. Everett & M. Kampermaif

Abstract

Australia's economy depends upon mining exports. Ore is a once-only resource. Physical and social environments require extraction with minimum waste. This paper shows how simulation modelling of the production system, supplemented by a decision-support system, can reduce waste, extend the life of existing mines (and their associated communities) and delay the necessity to develop new mines. The example is iron ore mining, but the principles and methods apply to other extractive industries, including coal mining. Iron ore composition must lie within a tolerance, not only in iron, but also in several contaminants. Ore is mined, railed to the port, crushed, stockpiled and shipped. Traditionally, each stockpile is built to target the specified composition. The e

Keywords