The selection of surface mining technology using a decision-making system

An open pit operation is in essence concerned with the relocation of a substantial ore and overlying materials. Based upon an analysis of the most significant geological, mining and environmental factors affecting the selection of surface mining technology, a comprehensive assessment index system including six types of parameters with 16 sub-index has been put forward. A decision-making system integrating knowledge based expert system and computer modeling has been developed for OPtimum selection of Surface mining Technology (OPST). An actual case study is given in this paper on the use of the system for the selection of surface mining technology for a large coal surface mine in China.