Track 6: Mining Engineering and Mine Planning

complex open pit operations where infrastructure integration plays a critical role. The scope of this study includes the evaluation of operational constraints associated with the location and progressive evolution of electrical infrastructure across different mining phases, as well as the identification of recurrent operational challenges related to trailing cable length, post‑blast re‑energization requirements, and the reconfiguration of electrical infrastructure. In addition, the study covers the development of technical guidelines for the strategic positioning of poles, overhead lines, and power supply points based on the projected spatial advance and deepening of the open pit. This study does not include detailed economic quantification of operational costs or financial benefits, nor advanced electrical system modelling such as detailed load-flow calculations or electrical simulations. However, qualitative impacts will be discussed later. 3. METHODOLOGY OR APPROACH The methodology is based on the following steps: 3.1 Baseline Assessment As a starting point, a baseline assessment was developed to understand the existing electrical power supply configuration for mining equipment and to evaluate how electrical infrastructure was integrated into the mine planning process. 3.1.1 Electrical Infrastructure Review The electrical infrastructure review included an assessment of the primary power distribution components operating within the mine. The operation utilized ten electric shovels supplied through a medium‑voltage distribution system derived from a 34.5 kV primary network, stepped down to 13.8 kV at the main substations. The 13.8 kV level represented the backbone of the in‑pit electrical reticulation, feeding switch houses and mobile substations strategically positioned according to active mining phases. Figure 1 shows the baseline distribution of shovels, substations, and 13.8 kV overhead line (OHL) routes.

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