Optimizing continuous miner coal production systems based on production and production cost

The purpose is to develop a face production cost model for room-and-pillar mining, to integrate the model with SIU-Suboleski production (SSP) modeling software, and to show that combining face production cost with ROM production provides a better indicator for comparing equipment costs. Several production planning scenarios were modeled. An SSP model was developed that incorporates capital, operating, and production costs for each option and calculates an estimate of face production cost on a raw coal basis. 6 refs., 5 figs., 6 tabs.