Ore transport system selection for the sintoukola potash project in the Republic of Congo

Abstract

Material transport is one of the major components of a bulk mining system, and the selection of the most appropriate material transport system can have a significant bearing on the success of a mining project, particularly in Africa. This paper presents a three-criterion methodology for assessing a mine transport system. The three criteria are focused on operability, economic analysis (using the net present cost (NPC) methodology), and safety, health, and environment. The methodology is demonstrated in a case study assessment of truck hauling vs overland conveyor belt for the Sintoukola potash project in the Republic of Congo. The results show that for the given project configuration, an overland conveyor belt is preferred on the basis of all three criteria.