Open Pit optimisation

Generating an optimal pit with a favourable financial result for a given resource model can be a time consuming and repetitive process, particularly in times of changing commodity prices and volatile costs. Cube Consulting mining engineers are efficient at setting up and running open pit optimisations with a sufficient number of iterations to evaluate the appropriate final design and cutback selection. It may be that preliminary optimisations need to be carried out prior to the finalisation of all parameters – these parameters are almost certainly influenced by the preliminary mine schedules, which in turn provided valuable feedback on the project dynamics as part of the essential, iterative nature of mining studies.

Based on the results of the optimisation phase of the study, our Cube mining engineers will create the required pit designs taking into account known geotechnical factors, appropriate strip ratios and pit staging.  This process is iterative in conjunction with the strategic scheduling of the project to ensure that staging is incorporated into practical pit designs. We will liaise with geotechnical experts for review and feedback prior to finalising the designs.

At Cube, our engineers do not just push the buttons on software – the analysis of results is a vital stage and we work closely with your key decision makers to develop the appropriate strategy.

Underground Stope optimisation

For underground mining engineering, Cube consulting experts employ leading Stope Optimiser software to provide insight into the potential of your orebody quickly and effectively.  As much as the running of the software is important, it is more-so asking the right questions and cognisant analysis of the results which deliver real project value and this is what we at Cube are known for.

Through effective use of stope optimisation runs, understanding can be gained of potential impacts of cut-off grade (metal prices and cost) variations, changes to mining methods and the impacts of a range of geotechnical conditions, including pillar and stope dimensions and potential competing mining methods. 

Stope Optimisation is used by Cube to help guide all stages of the mining cycle, from exploration targeting and due diligence “what if” scenarios to detailed operating designs and sign of for Ore Reserves.  Cube also utilises Stope optimisation for assessment of geostatistical simulation results in concert with our highly regarded team of Geostatisticians.

If you are unsure of the underground potential of your project, Cube can efficiently convert a Mineral Resource to a range of potentially mineable sub-sets of tonnes and grade, and analyse the results to guide future expenditure and decision making.  Stope optimisation provides the basis for further mine design work, or can stand alone as an early-stage assessment of any project.