RSE3040 - Mining systems - Monash University

Overview

This unit covers underground and surface mining methods and equipment selection for the optimum performance of underground and surface operations. The unit provides a detailed understanding of mining processes and systems engineering along with their key drivers in modern open-cut and underground operations. For each of the mining methods explored consideration is given to the mining cycle and access design - eg shafts and/or declines and materials handling. Through practical applications, you will explore the selection of optimal mining systems. For each of the mining systems covered, core risk identification and mitigation are considered.

Offerings

S2-01-CLAYTON-FLEXIBLE

Requisites

Prerequisite

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Associate Professor Hossein Masoumi

Unit Coordinator(s)

Associate Professor Hossein Masoumi

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:

Analyse the life cycle of a mining project and understand the fundamentals of systems engineering.

Analyse the productivity of a mining system and formulate measures to make it safer, more efficient and sustainable.

Assess the core risks associated with the mining systems.

Select between the surface and underground mining methods in line with the required equipment for the operation of a range of surface and underground mines.

Appreciate the elements required to design and operate a modern surface and/or underground mining operation.

Teaching approach

Active learning

Integrated lecture and practice. While it is conventional to run lecture and practice classes separately from each other, for this unit both are delivered in an integrated mode to ensure high turn up in both lecture and practice classes. In other words, every session involves some portion of lecture and practice due to its specific mode of delivery.

The unit involves much descriptive information due to its nature, which is an overview of resources engineering. So the practical classes are mainly involved in re-emphasising descriptive information.

Assessment summary

Continuous assessment: 50%

Final assessment: 50%

This unit contains a hurdle requirement that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment

1 - Assessment 1: Open pit mining

2 - Assessment 2: Underground mining

3 - Final assessment

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Lectures

Practical activities

Workload requirements

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Availability in areas of study

Minor: Mining engineering