Investigation of Geotechnical Parameters Effect on Open Pit Mining Operation Cost (Case Study: Angouran Mine)

Abstract

Properties of intact rock and discontinuities structures are the most important variables affecting mining operations. A comprehensive review of research concerning the direct effect of geotechnical parameters on changes of total exploitation cost in open-pit mines are not provided since now. In this paper, the influence of geotechnical properties of rock mass on total cost of mining operations in Angouran (the largest lead and zinc mine in Middle East located at south western province of Zanjan, Iran) is examined. At first, the classified components of slope mass rating (SMR) and then all exploitation costs (total costs of drilling operation, blasting, bulldozers work, loading and hauling) in mining blocks are surveyed. Then, an equation for determining the correlation between geotechnical properties and total cost using multivariate linear regression is proposed. Eventually, conducting sensitivity analysis revealed that the variation of joints dip is the most effective parameter in change of mining operation cost.