The Mining Engineering Center of Vira Holding, benefiting from an experienced and specialized team and utilizing the most advanced design and simulation software, comprehensively and professionally covers all stages of mining engineering, from initial design to operational optimization. Our approach in this center is the integration of modern global technical knowledge with operational experience under the complex geological and mining conditions of Iran.
Below, we provide a detailed description of the key services of this center:
• Open-Pit Mine Design
Our specialists at Vira Holding perform open-pit mine design based on accurate analysis of geological, geotechnical, and economic data. Our services in this field include:
• Determination of Final Pit Limit (Pit Limit Optimization):
Using advanced optimization algorithms and simultaneously considering technical and economic parameters, we determine the final mine boundary in a way that achieves the maximum Net Present Value (NPV).
• Design of Mining Phases (Phase Design):
Unlike traditional methods that often lead to impractical designs, our specialists use mathematical planning models to design phases that, while maintaining the minimum operational space required for large machinery, have the necessary continuity and smoothness at different levels. This approach ensures that the final design has high operational feasibility and that its value deviation from the ideal state is less than 2%.
• Bench Design:
By considering rock mass characteristics, we calculate the optimal bench height and slope angle to achieve maximum stability and safety. Our analyses include numerical simulations to understand stress distribution and failure mechanisms.
• Underground Mine Design
Underground mine design, due to geomechanical complexities and geological uncertainties, is one of the most sensitive stages of mining engineering. Our expertise in this field includes:
• Stope Layout Design:
Our goal is to determine the optimal arrangement of stopes within the mineralized body so that, while considering geometric dimensions, stability, and geotechnical parameters, the highest economic value is achieved. Unlike traditional methods, we utilize advanced optimization algorithms such as Binary Integer Linear Programming (BILP) and Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) to find solutions that are both optimal and fully operational.
• Geological Uncertainty Modeling:
One of the major challenges in underground design is the lack of initial drilling data. We use Geostatistical Simulations to generate various possible scenarios of grade and mineral distribution. Then, using advanced algorithms such as PPO, we design a stope layout that, when facing these uncertainties, provides the highest expected profit and the lowest risk.
• Determination of Optimal Stope Dimensions:
Using analytical methods (such as thick plate theory) and numerical simulations, we determine the optimal dimensions of stope openings, pillars, and roof thickness in a way that ensures mechanical stability while maximizing extraction efficiency.
• Mine Planning
Mine planning is the link between mine design and operational execution. Our services in this section include:
• Long-Term Planning:
Determining the extraction sequence throughout the mine life with the goal of maximizing NPV, while considering limitations related to extraction capacity, processing capacity, and waste removal.
• Medium & Short-Term Planning:
Developing annual, seasonal, and monthly objectives with complete details, including equipment allocation, drilling plans, blasting, and material flow. We use modern methods such as Direct Block Scheduling, which allows simultaneous consideration of operational constraints.
• High-Adherence Planning:
We minimize the gap between ideal plans and operational reality by designing phases that comply with spatial and equipment requirements.
• Operational Optimization
Our goal is to carry out ongoing mining operations with maximum efficiency and minimum possible cost:
• Fleet Optimization:
Simulation and analysis of the Truck-Shovel transportation cycle to determine the optimal number of equipment units and reduce downtime.
• Blast Optimization:
Designing drilling and blasting patterns according to rock type and production objectives (optimized fragmentation and reduction of undesirable vibrations).
• Grade Control:
Applying accurate sampling and analysis methods to precisely separate ore from waste during operations and reduce processing costs.
The engineering team of Vira Holding, consisting of senior and expert specialists, is ready to provide consulting and executive services throughout all the above stages. For more information or cooperation, please contact us.
