Evaluating Flexible Mine Design under Uncertainty

Abstract

This research outlines a methodology to evaluate uncertainty in mine system configuration. Different models are proposed; a fixed mode for a static system, a flexible mode for dynamic system configuration, a robust mode with combined simulations and a practical operational mode. Techniques include; Conditional Simulation for geological uncertainty, Monte Carlo Simulation for other uncertainties and Mixed Integer Programming for system configuration. An application of the methodology a real feasibility study demonstrates significant value potential.