Evaluation of Different In-Pit Haulage Patterns in an Oil Shale Mine Deposit

Diverse four patterns of mine face development have been implemented in this study; this includes continuous longitudinal single-sided mining development system (Dsl), continuous longitudinal double-sided mining development system (Ddl), continuous cross single-sided mining development system (Dsc) and continuous cross double-sided mining development system (Ddc). This study suggests a progressive development approach that involves the shortest in-pit transport approach from the face of the mine to the reloading station using three options, including a power plant consisting of one Circulating Fluidized Bed (CFB) boiler unit and one steam generator in the first 5 years (first option), two CFB units and two generators in the second 5 years (second option), and three CFB boiler units and three generators in the rest of the mine life (third option). The mineable reserve is estimated at 470,861,070 m³, with a projected mine life of 57.4 years, an annual ore volume of 2,840,075m³, and a total mining capacity (including ore and overburden) of 7,838,607m³. Major Findings: The findings suggest that the minimum in-pit haulage distance of 858.7m for the first option can be attained through the implementation of a continuous cross-double-sided mining development system. The findings also suggest that the continuous cross double-sided mining development system is the optimal selection for the second option, while the continuous longitudinal double-sided mining development system is the optimal selection for the third option.