What is an EPC mine plan for operating mines and why is it important?

Mining is a complex and dynamic industry that requires careful planning and management to ensure the optimal use of resources, the minimization of environmental impact, and the maximization of value. However, many mining projects face challenges such as changing market conditions, technical difficulties, operational inefficiencies, and regulatory compliance issues. To overcome these challenges, mining companies need to adopt a comprehensive and integrated approach to planning and executing their mining activities. This is where an EPC plan for operating mines comes in.

An EPC plan for operating mines is a service that involves the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) activities for maintaining and improving an existing mining project. An EPC plan for operating mines is prepared in collaboration between the EPC contractor and owner team, responsible for delivering the project on time, within budget, and according to the agreed specifications. 

 

An EPC plan for operating mines follows the industry standard on LOMP (Life of Mine Plan) studies, which cover all the technical and economic aspects of a mining project, from mine geology, pit optimisation, and mine designs, to equipment requirements and budget forecasts for the life of the mine, with 5-year, 2-year, annual and quarterly mine plans and schedules. An EPC plan for operating mines has several features, benefits, and components that make it a valuable service for mining companies. Some of these are: 

 

  • It defines the scope, schedule, budget, and performance of the project, ensuring clarity and alignment of expectations and objectives between the owner and the contractor.
  • It specifies the technical requirements and specifications of the mine and its infrastructure, ensuring that the project meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
  • It identifies the sources, costs, and delivery of the materials, equipment, and services needed for the project, ensuring that the project is well-resourced and cost-effective.
  • It describes the methods, procedures, and quality standards for building the mine and its facilities, ensuring that the project is executed in a professional and timely manner.
  • It aims to have the project completed on time and within budget, ensuring that the project delivers the expected outcomes and value.


An EPC plan for operating mines also offers several benefits for the owner of the mine, such as:

 

  • It enhances the efficiency and productivity of the mine by implementing the best practices and technologies in the industry, leading to improved operational performance and reduced operational costs.
  • It reduces the operational risks and environmental impact of the mine by optimizing the use of resources and minimizing the waste generation and emissions, leading to improved sustainability and compliance.
  • It increases the profitability and longevity of the mine by extending its life and maximizing its value, leading to increased returns on investment and shareholder value.
  • It ensures the quality and performance of the project by having a fixed price and a guaranteed completion date, leading to reduced uncertainty and increased confidence.


An EPC plan for operating mines consists of several components that cover the different stages and aspects of the project, such as:

 

  • A project review plan that evaluates the current status, performance, and challenges of the mine and its infrastructure, identifying the gaps and opportunities for improvement and expansion.
  • A detailed engineering design that specifies the technical requirements and specifications of the mine improvement and expansion projects, such as the mine layout, the pit design, the waste management system, and the transportation network.
  • A procurement plan that identifies the sources, costs, and delivery of the materials, equipment, and services needed for the project.
  • A construction plan that describes the methods, procedures, and quality standards for implementing the mine improvement and expansion projects.

 

TacminMadini’s EPC mining model originated from EPC plans for operating mines - an integrated planning process developed for operating mines that focuses on operational improvement and mine plan and budget conformance excellence. For more information on our EPC plan for operating mines, visit our website.