A SIMULATION OF THE MATERIALS FLOW IN A QUARRYING OPERATION

ABSTRACT. Determining the exact number of different types of mining equipment on an annual base or for the life of a mine is one of the most crucial elements in a mining project. In most cases, such estimates are based on analytical models which utilise certain empirical coefficients as correction factors, as they account for the individual conditions under which the deposit is exploited. However, their exact values to some extent is unknown and their values used for calculations can be based on subjectivity, leading to a biased estimate of the productivity of different mining equipment. The reason for such bias can originate from the use of data from similar mining operations. Therefore, for this study, a simulation approach was used to more accurately estimate the productivity of different mining equipment for a quarrying operation. Following this approach, certain design decisions can be validated or invalidated in a more robust way. In addition, results from the simulation model are compared to one another, which leads to the adoption of a hybrid solution between two of the considered scenarios.