Mine maintenance time as a non‐linear optimization problem under uncertainty

Abstract

PurposeDuring operation, mines experience safety, reliability, environmental and financial problems. In order to avoid these problems or idle capacities, mining operations should be performed within the specified reliability level of the system. Therefore, mining sub‐systems such as drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, ventilation, hoisting and supporting should be designed and maintained carefully. In this context, maintenance time causes a critical optimization problem in mines. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachThe problem is formulated as a non‐linear optimization problem and solved by genetic algorithms. A case study is conducted to demonstrate to the performance of approach for an underground operation.FindingsThe results show that the approach can be used to determine the best action time.Practical implicationsThe approach can be applicable to different mining methods in more sophisticated sub‐systems.Originality/valueThe paper recommends a genetic algorithmic approach to make a decision on optimal timing of maintenance of a mine.