Proposal to expand the pumping system for treatment and recirculation of underground water in a mining operation

Abstract

This work presents a proposal for the expansion of a water treatment system inside an underground mine, and thus optimize the water resource present in the mining operation. For this purpose, the design parameters of an existing two-stage pumping system were determined and the hydrogeological conditions of the mine were analyzed. It was determined that a 500 HP pump was necessary that can deliver a dynamic head of 75 meters. Finally, an evaluation of the economic feasibility of the expansion design towards a three-stage pumping system with sedimentary pumps was carried out for its implementation. An approximate CAPEX of the pumping system of US$ 13,571,442 was determined; and an OPEX of 0.299 US$/m3. Likewise, based on the estimated VPT of the mineral, the reserve report, the CAPEX of the pumping system and other projects, a NPV of the mine of US$ 65,562,057 and an IRR of 18.10% was estimated.