Society of Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration Student Mine Design Competiton

Project goal: To take raw borehole data and design a mine based on given constraints, such as time and man-hour restrictions. Borehole data was converted into a geologic block model, complete with ore grades. Using advanced 3-D modeling software and the block model data, pit push-backs were designed and a life-of-mine plan was developed. Concurrently, a wash-plant upgrade and crusher overhaul were designed by analyzing the overall tons mined per hour. The final part of the design included coordination and design of haulage paths, recommendations for fleet upgrades and purchases, and design of waste storage dump piles. The final design resulted in a mine life of 71 years.This project was submitted for the 2017-2018 Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration/National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association Student Design Competition.The team placed within the top six teams internationally.