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Feb 25, 2025

How to Choose the Optimal Final Pit Contour in K-MINE

Selecting the optimal final pit contour is critical for maximizing Net Present Value (NPV) and improving resource efficiency in open-pit mining. This video provides a step-by-step approach to analyzing and selecting the best contour using K-MINE.

  • How block additions change with price adjustments
  • How to analyze mining volumes and economic indicators using preconfigured graphs
  • How to determine the price adjustment coefficient that maximizes NPV
  • How to use cross-sections in 2D and 3D to evaluate deposit extraction
  • How to export and compare data for deeper analysis

K-MINE enables mining engineers to make informed decisions and optimize mine planning with advanced visualization and analysis tools.

Video transcription

How to Choose the Optimal Final Pit Contour in K-MINE

Selecting the right final pit contour is a key step in mine planning, impacting profitability and long-term operational efficiency. K-MINE provides a comprehensive set of tools to analyze and determine the best contour for maximizing Net Present Value (NPV).

Step 1: Visualizing Contour Adjustments

K-MINE allows users to observe how blocks are incrementally added as the price adjustment coefficient changes. By visualizing these adjustments, engineers can see how mining volumes and economic factors evolve with different scenarios.

Step 2: Analyzing Mining Graphs for NPV Optimization

K-MINE includes preconfigured graphs that help assess key parameters such as:

  • Mining volumes and block accumulation trends
  • Changes in valuable mineral recovery at different price adjustments
  • The coefficient that maximizes NPV and profitability

By analyzing these graphs, mining engineers can make data-driven decisions about which final contour offers the best economic return.

Step 3: Cross-Section Analysis for Deposit Optimization

Cross-sections provide deeper insights into deposit extraction. With K-MINE, engineers can:

  • Assess how fully the deposit is extracted
  • Identify potential for future underground mining
  • Evaluate the most efficient transition between open-pit and underground operations

K-MINE supports both 2D and 3D cross-sections, enabling a detailed assessment of ore distribution and final pit design.

Step 4: Data Export and Custom Reporting

K-MINE provides powerful data export capabilities, allowing users to:

  • View mining results in incremental, differential, or cumulative modes
  • Generate quick charts for deeper analysis
  • Compare different contour options to select the most profitable scenario

Why Use K-MINE for Final Pit Contour Selection?

  • Accurate modeling of economic factors for optimal NPV
  • Seamless integration of visual and numerical data
  • Advanced cross-section visualization in 2D and 3D
  • Flexible data export and reporting options

Choosing the right final pit contour is essential for long-term mine profitability. K-MINE provides the tools to analyze all critical factors and select the best contour based on data-driven insights.