Designing a model that increases throughput and reduces delays

Orebody 25 Debottlenecking Project

BHP engaged Stantec to model and simulate the operation of the ore handling plant at the Orebody 25 iron mine with the objective of increasing throughput by removing bottlenecks.

We worked with BHP's sustaining capital and operational representatives to identify areas of constraint—and therefore opportunities for improvement—within the plant flowsheet. To determine the overall system improvement that could be expected, we modelled alternative solutions that would address these areas of constraint. We recommended multiple alternative expansion plans to BHP, and following internal review, the preferred option was selected by the business.

The total capital spend? AU$3 million was required to adjust chutes, add screens, replace motors, and replace other minor equipment within the plant. These improvements resulted in an additional 2 million tonnes per annum flowing through the plant.