Engineering and Mining Journal - Whether the market is copper, gold, nickel, iron ore, lead/zinc, PGM, diamonds or other commodities, E&MJ takes the lead in projecting trends, following development and reporting on the most efficient operating pr
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O P E R AT I N G S T R AT E G I E S Geology and salinity concentrations predicted from modeling of FMG's area of operations. times to allow the models to be effectively used as a tool. The challenge was therefore to ensure that DHI could increase the resolution and accuracy of the model while keeping simulation run times reasonable and proportional to the increased complexity. The model simulation time is a critical element for project delivery that is often overlooked and can cause significant frustration to project managers later in the project delivery cycle. In this case—and as www.e-mj.com expected—the HSRSM model resulted in increased run times but provided greater precision and accuracy in its predictions. Most importantly, DHI's detailed modeling enabled FMG to quantify the amount of available fresh or brackish groundwater and to predict groundwater salinity reliably. The three major processes considered were density-driven flow, mine dewatering, and groundwater injection of saline and brackish water. With DHI's HRSM model in hand, FMG was able to continue planning mine dewatering and re-injection operations while ensuring the environmental safety of the region. The HSRSM modeling confirmed that FMG's approach was sound, and allowed the mining company to minimize any uncertainty. Ultimately, the model could be used to: • Design practical dewatering and re-injection solutions to meet specific water management goals; • Optimize designs for economic efficiency; • Evaluate potential effects of mining activities on environmental features such as the marsh; • Understand and mitigate saline water ingress; and • Predict impacts of alternative hydrological or development scenarios to assist FMG in decision-making. DHI is an independent, international consulting and research organization that offers technological development, governance, and competence in the fields of water, environment and health. The company has offices in almost 30 countries worldwide and employs more than 1,000 people. For additional information, contact Andrew Druzynski (adr@dhigroup.com). AUGUST 2013 • E&MJ; 97