MINE PLANNING REVIEW

CLIENT

Canadian Open-Cut Mine

OBJECTIVE

Xenco was engaged to support the Mine Management team in identifying and addressing inefficiencies within their open-pit nickel mining operation. The objective was to improve operational intensity, optimise planning processes, and deliver sustainable production improvements. By providing specialised mine planning expertise, Xenco aimed to uncover high-value opportunities that would enhance short- and long-term mine performance while ensuring practical, actionable solutions for implementation.

THE CHALLENGES

During the engagement, several challenges were identified that were impacting the mine’s performance:

• Recurring Inefficiencies: Ongoing operational issues were affecting production outcomes.

• Limited Visibility on Opportunities: Management needed expert support to identify areas for improvement.

• Planning Misalignment: Operational plans were not fully aligned with sustainable production goals.

• Operational Constraints: Existing mining methods, equipment use, and contractor practices limited performance.

• Data Accuracy and Integration: Inconsistent planning and operational data hindered effective decision-making.

APPROACH

To tackle operational inefficiencies and uncover optimisation opportunities, Xenco implemented a systematic, data-driven approach. Over a 5-day site visit, our team conducted pit observations and engaged with key personnel across planning and operational teams to gather insights and validate findings. The process included:

OUR RESULT

Through structured analysis and on-site engagement, Xenco delivered actionable insights that addressed inefficiencies and optimised mine performance:

• High-Value Recommendations: 10 actionable initiatives to improve efficiency and profitability.

• Optimised Planning Alignment: Enhanced operational performance through better-aligned plans.

• Opportunity Identification: Improvements pinpointed in grade control, mining methods, pit design, and contractor management.

• Data-Supported Decisions: Detailed analysis and scenario modelling enabled informed decision-making.

• Practical Insights: A serviceable report provided actionable recommendations for sustainable improvements.