Openwork scheduling for steep-grade iron-ore deposits with the help of near-vertical layers

Abstract

Purpose is to develop efficient scheduling to excavate steep-grade iron-ore deposits using near-vertical layers relying upon production practices by an open pit of Poltava Mining-and-Processing Integrated Works (MPIW). Methods. The goal achievement involved system analysis of openwork scheduling for steep-grade iron-ore deposits by means of near-vertical layers in an open pit of Poltava MPIW; the scheduling process was structured from the viewpoint of decision-making under uncertainty. Findings. New scheduling methods to excavate steep-grade iron-ore deposits by means of near-vertical layers have been developed. The methods have been represented in the informal (descriptive) structure being mandatory for further transition to formalization of certain stages of technological decision-making during scheduling. To improve the scheduling efficiency, it is recommended to prepare initial process data using K-MINE software; Deswik software is recommended to determine economic indices as well as pit outlines. Originality.For the first time ever, a new mechanism of expedient spatiotemporal control of the specific excavation volumes while varying both “starting” time and intensity of a layer mining has been identified for the traditional openwork. The mechanism makes it possible to implement piecewise stable dynamics of annual output. Moreover, it also helps solve inverse problem, i.e. determine target values of spatiotemporal controlled parameters (i.e. “starting” time and intensity of the layer mining) for the required dynamics of ore and overburden excavation amounts. Practical implications. The proposed methods concerning scheduling steep-grade iron-ore deposit mining using near-vertical layers relying upon production practices by an open pit of Poltava MPIW have been tested successfully. Their efficiency has been proved. Currently, they are the key procedures being applied to schedule extraction using near-vertical layers in the context of the considered open pit. Keywords: iron-ore deposits, openwork, steep-grade layers, scheduling