CDR Sample for Mining Engineers (233611)

This project focused on maximising the Net Present Value (NPV) of a large-scale iron ore deposit through strategic mine planning. My core responsibilities were:

I was responsible for the technical design and optimisation of the open-pit limits. I began by analysing the block model to define the geological constraints and ore-grade distribution. I utilised Whittle software to perform pit optimisation, determining the most economic ultimate pit shell based on current commodity prices and operational costs. A critical task was designing the haul road ramps and bench geometries to ensure compliance with AS 3000 safety standards and geotechnical stability requirements. I developed a 5-year production schedule to balance the stripping ratio and ensure a consistent feed to the processing plant. Finally, I conducted a risk assessment on equipment fleet requirements, optimising the truck-and-shovel match to reduce fuel consumption and operational downtime.

• Skills & Technologies Demonstrated:
  • Software: GEOVIA Whittle (Optimisation), Surpac / Vulcan (Mine Design), MS Project.
  • Standards & Frameworks: JORC Code (Reporting of Exploration Results), AS/NZS ISO 31000 (Risk Management), Mine Safety Acts.
  • Competencies: Pit Optimisation, Strategic Mine Planning, Haul Road Design, Fleet Management, Production Scheduling.

This project involved the comprehensive design of a ventilation network to ensure a safe working environment in a deep underground copper mine. My core responsibilities were:

I led the design of the primary and secondary ventilation circuits to manage air quality and temperature at depth. I began by calculating the required airflow volumes based on diesel emission dilution requirements and gas clearance (CH4 and CO). I utilised Ventsim software to model the entire network, simulating various “what-if” scenarios, such as fan failures or underground fires. A key responsibility was the selection and placement of primary surface fans and underground boosters to overcome friction losses and shock resistance. I ensured the design complied with the Mine Safety and Inspection Regulations regarding air velocity and contaminant thresholds. Finally, I developed an emergency ventilation plan and validated the system’s performance through on-site pressure and flow surveys.

• Skills & Technologies Demonstrated:
  • Software: Ventsim (Ventilation Modelling), AutoCAD (Layout Design), Excel (Flow Calculations).
  • Standards & Frameworks: Mine Health and Safety Act, Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) Exposure Limits, Australian Ventilation Standards.
  • Competencies: Ventilation Network Modelling, Airflow Dynamics, Contaminant Control, Fan Performance Analysis, Emergency Response Planning.

• This project focused on ensuring structural integrity and worker safety through advanced rock mass characterisation and support systems. My core responsibilities were:

  I was responsible for the geotechnical assessment of a newly developed decline in a gold mine. I began by performing rock mass rating (RMR) and Q-system classifications to evaluate the structural quality of the surrounding rock. I used RS2 (Finite Element Analysis) to model stress distributions around the excavations and identify potential zones of instability or rockburst risk. A critical task was designing a site-specific ground support regime, including the selection of rock bolt patterns, mesh specifications, and shotcrete thickness. I supervised the installation of vibrating wire piezometers and extensometers to monitor ground movement in real-time. Finally, I authored a Geotechnical Hazard Map and conducted regular safety audits to verify that the support systems were performing according to the design specifications.

  • Skills & Technologies Demonstrated:
    • Software: Rocscience RS2/RS3 (Geotechnical Modelling), DIPS (Stereographic Projection), Unwedge.
    • Standards & Frameworks: ISRM (International Society for Rock Mechanics) Guidelines, AS 1170 (Structural Design Actions).
    • Competencies: Rock Mass Characterisation, Ground Support Design, Numerical Stress Analysis, Geotechnical Monitoring, Hazard Mitigation.