A discrete event simulation approach for mine development planning at Codelco's New Mine Level

The new caving megaprojects that are planned to go into production in the next decade have scheduled horizontal developments at very high rates, which difficult achieve. Research has been conducted seeks model construction times for underground determine feasibility of achieving rates. However, these previous attempts do not consider all operational aspects make up mine development cycle. Here, we present a discrete event simulation (DES) individualizes each unit operation cycle rates projects will be able attain. developed was applied New Mine Level (NML) El Teniente Division (DET). results indicate it would impractical achieve advance original plans if operations continue executed using status quo. metres after six years sections analysed can significantly improved by changing maintenance strategy equipment (457 increase), orepass availability (194 and initial planning sequence (1 598 increase). It is recommended implements flexible strategy, defines ensure increase contractors, makes use current tools more robust planning.