Determination of Final Pit Limit at Miduk Copper Mine Using CSMINE Software

Abstract

Miduk is one of the largest copper ore reserves in Iran that is situated in the north west of Kerman province. It constitutes approximately 157 million tons of ore with an average grade of 0.85%. Ore of the most important element of open pit planning is the determined the final pit limits. The simulation method (positive floating cone) is a commonly used method for this purpose in which the users in first subjected to design by grade blocks. In this presentation, geostatistic methods have been described and their application in open pit mine planning discussed. The computer programs of CSMINE and VARIOC have then been explained and parameter required for the application of these software programs obtained. Finally, with two used of real data gathered and the computer programs explained the optimum design of the pit is determined. The pit recommended will produce appropriate ore for the ore dressing plant with maximum average and highest amount of economic gain in mind.