Analysis of cycle times and economic equipment matching in open pits based on optimum transportation costs using the MCDM method

In open-pit operations, the loading and handling process constitutes 30–50% of the total operating cost. Therefore, studies on the cycle times and compatibility of loaders and trucks enable the reduction of mining costs. In large-capacity operations, there may not only be a single loading point but also multiple unloading points. Therefore, planning based on optimum cycle times using multiple different loader-truck combinations in the presence of these loading and unloading points can reduce unit haulage costs and improve schedule efficiency, which may shorten the project duration and enhance operating profit. Accordingly, the aim is to optimize the minimum loader-truck operation cost and select the loader-truck with the lowest investment cost using a MCDM Method in a simple and efficient manner. First, the equipment-matching alternatives and evaluation criteria are defined. Criteria weights are then derived, and each alternative is scored and ranked using an MCDM approach. The highest value is then selected as the decision. These matches were compared with previous data, i.e., whether they had high investment costs, the number of machines and equipment, the amount of work they could do daily, and their unit costs. According to the results, a 10% improvement in cycle times results in a 2.6-year reduction in mine life. This corresponds to ~ 10% of the total overburden removal. Therefore, using programs that minimize cycle times can provide investors with significant reductions in transportation costs.