Application of electro-monorail mine haulage systems in underground decline development

Abstract

This study compares the electrical monorail transport system (EMTS) with the conventional truck haulage system in decline development. The study examines decline geometry, cycle times and cost and productivity in relation to the two haulage systems. Results show that productivity of the monorail is affected by loader cycle time to fill the monorail containers. Hence, to increase the productivity of the monorail a continuous loading system has been proposed in this paper. The operating costs of the monorail were found to be the same as the truck haulage system. However, if the cost of electricity is lower than 30¢ (Australian) per kilowatt hour, the operating cost for the monorail would be significantly lower than that of a comparable truck haulage system. The capital costs for the monorail are slightly higher than a comparable truck. However, the monorail’s lower operating costs plus environmental benefits make it more attractive than truck haulage.