Common Errors to Avoid When Handling Pushbacks

Handling pushbacks effectively is critical for the long-term success of any mining operation. Dr. Bright Oppong Afum discusses some of the most common errors that occur during pushback design and how to avoid them.

A major mistake in pushback design is focusing solely on short-term profitability while neglecting long-term goals. Many traditional approaches prioritize immediate gains without considering future phases, potential operational bottlenecks, and sustainability. Pushbacks must align with the mine’s long-term strategy to ensure seamless integration of future phases.

Another frequently overlooked factor is geological uncertainty. Mining engineers often assume that current ore conditions will remain consistent in future pushbacks. However, variability in ore grades can significantly impact operational efficiency. It is essential to collaborate with geologists to assess ore grade variations and incorporate them into global optimization strategies.

Collaboration with processing teams is also vital. The variability of ore from a pushback must align with processing plant requirements to avoid costly adjustments. Regular communication across departments ensures operational alignment and process efficiency.

Additionally, market fluctuations play a crucial role in pushback planning. Mining companies often fail to consider commodity price trends when designing pushbacks, leading to frequent redesigns and inefficient operations. By adopting dynamic mining planning that factors in market conditions, operations can remain adaptive and profitable.

In conclusion, addressing these key errors—short-term focus, geological uncertainties, lack of cross-department collaboration, and ignoring market trends—can lead to more efficient and profitable mining operations.