Modeling and simulation as a tool to support decision making and change of scenery for improved productivity: the case of mining

Abstract

Computer modeling and discrete event simulation of industrial processes have gained a prominent role for the analysis of capacity and management improvement, which generate competitive advantages for organizations. Although some studies involving simulation in the mining area were found, countless application opportunities in mining subareas to assist managers in decision-making were encountered. This work shows the process of loading and transport of minerals in an open pit mine in order to generate a simulation model that best represents the system to propose improvements in the composition of the load and transport equipment employed in the mine. The model was developed inthe discrete event simulation software, Arena, and validated to allow for the creation of alternative scenarios to achieve operational improvements. The best alternative that resulted from the scenario stipulated the replacement of a hired vehicle with its own fleet. This generated an annual gain of R $ 3.8 million, through the expressive gains in production and the reduction in the cost of hiring services, which have offset the increase in costs of having its own fleet. The computational model, with its many peculiarities, has been reproduced successfully, allowing for work solutions at low cost and without interference in the real system, distinguishing itself as a fundamental tool to solidify the company’s competitiveness.

Keywords

• Mining
• Modeling and simulation
• Arena Software