Introduction
In metals mining, the performance of the processing circuit and final product qualities can be affected by the deleterious elements found within the orebody. At MEC, our team was tasked with solving a critical challenge in a Vanadium mining study. The objective was to maintain a threshold on the deleterious element : V ratio for the first 24 months of mining and annually thereafter.
Challenge
The client faced a significant issue: the mine schedule could not progress without verifying that the deleterious element : V ratio would meet the required head grade to support the processing plant. The stockpiling strategy needed to be optimised to meet the quality targets and allow the mining schedule to continue smoothly.
Approach
To solve this, MEC’s technical team developed an innovative solution using an Excel Visual Basic macro. By taking the ROM (Run-of-Mine) output from the Schedule Tool, we applied dependencies to simulate a First-on/First-off stockpiling strategy. This allowed us to maintain the desired deleterious element : V ratio throughout the project timeline, ensuring the continued success of the mining schedule.
Outcome
Through our strategic model, we proved that maintaining the deleterious element : V ratio at the required grade was feasible. This allowed the project to progress and maintain momentum while meeting all necessary technical specifications.
Conclusion
By leveraging advanced technical solutions and working closely with the client, MEC was able to turn a complex challenge into a streamlined solution, ensuring project success and allowing continued progress in the mining operation.