Mining method selection by AHP approach

Mining method selection is one of the most critical and problematic activities of mining engineering. The ultimate goals of mining method selection are maximizing company’s profit and recovery of the mineral resources and providing a safe environment for the miners by selecting the suitable method with the fewest problems among the feasible alternatives. Selection of an appropriate mining method is a complex task that requires consideration of many technical, economical, political, social, and historical factors. The appropriate mining method is the method that is technically feasible for the ore geometry and ground conditions, while also being a low-cost operation. There is no single appropriate mining method for a deposit. Usually two or more feasible methods are possible. Each method entails some inherent problems. Consequently, the optimal method is the one that offers the fewest problems. The approach of adopting the same mining method as that of the neighbouring operation is not always appropriate. However, this does not mean that one cannot learn from comparing mining plans of existing operations in the same district, or of similar deposits. Each orebody is unique with its own properties, and engineering judgement has a greet effect on the decision in such versatile work as mining. Although experience and engineering judgement still provide major input into the selection of a mining method, subtle differences in the characteristics of each deposit can usually be perceived only through a detailed analysis of the available data. It becomes the responsibility of the geologists and engineers to work together to ensure that all factors are considered in the mining method selection process. Figure 1 illustrates the flowchart of this study.