Project number
25021
Organization
Freeport McMoRan
Offering
ENGR498-F2024-S2025
Slope leaching is a common and effective method for extracting copper and other ores at mines. However, the current method for preparing and deploying the necessary dripline harnesses is labor-intensive, and the helicopters used for deployment have limited capacity. This leads to inefficiencies and space constraints. The team developed a dripline harness and spool system to address these challenges. This system reduces the on-site footprint and enhances dripline deployment efficiency. It also enables scalability in slope leaching operations.
The team developed an improved drip line harness by incorporating flexible construction fencing into the design to maintain spacing within the system. The associated spool design consists of two triangular stands as supports and a cylindrical spool design that can accommodate the 24,000-square-foot harness that will be furled on this design.
The team performed finite element analysis, Instron testing and mathematical analysis to confirm that the design would perform well in its intended environment. By implementing this harness and spool design, mine operators can enhance copper production efficiency and maintain a sustainable, scalable process for future operations. Thanks to these improvements, this system will likely increase annual profits for the mining operation.
The team developed an improved drip line harness by incorporating flexible construction fencing into the design to maintain spacing within the system. The associated spool design consists of two triangular stands as supports and a cylindrical spool design that can accommodate the 24,000-square-foot harness that will be furled on this design.
The team performed finite element analysis, Instron testing and mathematical analysis to confirm that the design would perform well in its intended environment. By implementing this harness and spool design, mine operators can enhance copper production efficiency and maintain a sustainable, scalable process for future operations. Thanks to these improvements, this system will likely increase annual profits for the mining operation.