COMPUTERIZED MINE PLANNING FOR MEDIUM-SIZE OPEN-PITS

Sequences in open-pit mining must be planned and regularly revised to incorporate changes in the variables that affect profitability. Intera ctive computer planning with colour graphic facilities is an effective tool for this purpose in the short and medium term. Hardware for such purposes, in the form of personal computers, is readily available, an d the techniques have been shown to contribute significantly to planni ng effectiveness and profitability. Successful planning requires skill ed personnel who are familiar with all aspects of mine operations and related matters. Their decisions can be input into expert-system datab ases to educate and assist less experienced personnel. Within limits f luctuations in well-defined, short-term grades can be smoothed by usin g linear programming to adjust the mining sequence. In the longer term the lack of sampling data precludes detailed planning, and broad adju stments to monthly or quarterly sequences are required to ensure a con tinuously developing, practical mine plan.