An optimization model for scheduling the efficient flow of waste material in an underground gold mine

In an underground gold mine, the movement of ore and waste material occurs on a massive scale and short-term excavation activities should be scheduled so that that the right proportions of these materials are moving through the mine in order to meet production targets. In the proposed project, a mathematical optimization model will be formulated and tested on-site, in order to improve the short-term excavation scheduling activities, resulting in the desired balance of ore and waste material flowing through the mine. This model is to be used by GoldCorp managers as a decision support tool in order to ensure that the efficiency of scheduled operations are optimized. The intern funded by this project will be a highly qualified person, capable of making a major contribution to Canada’s international competiveness in the mining industry.

Faculty Supervisor:

Kevin Crowe

Student:

Suliman Emdini Gliwan

Partner:

Newmont Goldcorp

Discipline:

Resources and environmental management

Sector:

Mining and quarrying

University:

Lakehead University