Conference Proceedings
Application of Computers & Operations Research in the Minerals Industry (APCOM) Proceeding 2025
Conference Proceedings
Application of Computers & Operations Research in the Minerals Industry (APCOM) Proceeding 2025
MAFMINE 3.1 - integrating cost estimation and ESG constraints for enhanced preliminary economic assessment in mining
MAFMINE 3.1 is a cost-estimation tool for mining operations, integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. Evolving from the original O'Hara model, MAFMINE 3.1 leverages parametric models to provide preliminary capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenses (OPEX) estimations, achieving an accuracy of 30-50 per cent suited for the Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) stage. It supports initial Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) calculations, enabling rapid, order-of-magnitude cost projections with minimal inputs. This client-server application offers flexible deployment as both a cloud-based tool and a local desktop solution, using ElectronJS to support dual access. Local and synchronised cloud data storage is facilitated through PouchDB, which enables seamless data access in both online and offline modes. For the front end, a multilingual user interface is constructed with Handlebars and GruntJS, making it accessible to a global audience. Mathematical operations for cost and financial modelling are powered by MathJS, which supports quadratic and other complex equations foundational to mining project evaluations. Git version control allows for the ongoing integration of new models and formulas, ensuring adaptability to future needs. MAFMINE 3.1 also serves as an educational platform for mining engineering students and professionals, offering hands-on experience in cost estimation, financial modelling, and sustainability. ESG considerations, such as water withdrawn from new sources, energy sourcing, and carbon emissions, are incorporated to align with modem standards for responsible resource management. This paper will present MAFMINE 3.1's core functionalities, technical architecture, and practical applications in PEA-level mining assessments, underscoring its role as both a practical tool for cost estimation and an educational resource for sustainable mining practices.
Contributor(s):
C O Petter, U V Pinheiro, J F G Timm, R F DArrigo, F A C Cardozo, H Campose,
J P Z Oppermann, W M Ambross, R A Petter
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- Published: 2025
- Unique ID: P-04804-N8B9D4