Mining Studies
Twenty Mile Mine Design
Commodities
Client
Peabody Energy
Location
Twenty Mile Mine, USA
Work Conducted
Mine Design
ADVANCING GARDEN WELL (SOUTH) UG
Peabody Energy’s Twenty Mile Mine required a critical infrastructure redesign to meet a new coal contract demanding increased stoker coal production. Mining Plus was engaged to optimise the site’s Washplant and stockpile footprints while ensuring minimal disruptions to operations.
CHALLENGES
The new coal contract significantly increased the demand for stoker coal, far exceeding the site’s historical production capacity. The existing stockpile infrastructure struggled under the strain, resulting in wall deformation and overflow. The project needed to optimize the limited Washplant and stockpile areas while considering long-term operational needs. Additionally, a construction plan had to be developed and executed without halting current operations. Mining Plus, working under a direct contract, collaborated with M3 for structural support and addressed Life of Mine (LoM) cycle requirements, including training and execution of the project.
SOLUTIONS
Mining Plus facilitated an on-site workshop involving the engineering team, surface operations group, and M3. This collaboration determined the ideal stockpile shape, design, and the positioning of necessary services and infrastructure. A detailed construction plan was developed, incorporating both engineering expertise and operational practicality. M3 advanced the structural design, producing "For Construction" level drawings for the wall supports and push wall. Mining Plus also provided a thorough cost estimate, including local contractor engagement, ensuring feasibility and efficiency.
OUTCOMES
The collaborative effort delivered a strategic and actionable solution that optimized the stockpile layout and site infrastructure to meet increased stoker coal demands. M3’s detailed designs and Mining Plus’s cost estimation enabled seamless execution while avoiding operational disruptions. The project successfully aligned with Peabody Energy’s new contract requirements, increasing efficiency and ensuring long-term site sustainability.
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