In-pit crushing and high angle conveying in Yugoslavian copper mine

Abstract

ABSTRACT Plans for large scale open pit mining of the low grade copper ore at Majdanpek Copper Mine began after a 1949 exploration revealed an extensive ore body. Mining operations and haulage systems have progressed in phases exploiting the most current technology. Phase I (1960-1980) haulage system was by trucks only. Phase II (1980 to present) began to exploit the favorable economics of waste haulage by conveyor from a fixed, pit perimeter crusher to the waste dump, with dumping by mobile spreader. Phase III (scheduled for 1988 operation) will expand exploitation of haulage by conveyor by installation of in-pit portable crushers, shiftable conveyors and an elevating high angle conveyor (HAC®) to lift the ore out of the pit onto an overland conveyor system to the ore processing plant. Design of the HAC and its suitability for the severe requirements at Majdanpek (250 mm [10‘] sized copper ore at 4,000 t/h [4,409 st/h] for 93.5 m [307 ft.] of lift at 35.5°) is the primary focus of this paper. The Phase III haulage system affords more in-pit flexibility and optimizes total excavation for the amount of ore to be recovered. Present plans for the future are for extending the Phase III ore haulage system deeper into the pit by introduction of a second HAC to discharge onto the first HAC.