Short-term mining operations in limestone mines - diagnosis and proposition for improvement

Abstract

This paper deals with a study conducted in a limestone mine located in Caçapava do Sul in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Themes related to short-term operational planning and unit operations are discussed. We conducted a diagnosis of the practices observed in the mining company under study and recommendations were proposed for change and innovation regarding mining operations. We sought to identify factors that affect productivity as well as actions that could increase the overall efficiency of the unit operations in the "peak" production period so that increased market demand could be met without the need for investing in new equipment. The article highlights the difficulties associated with the lack of planning for the mining cycles and with the organization of daily activities. An assignment of daily production to each piece of equipment that is part of the unit operations is suggested in order to optimize operations, thus contributing to the sustainable management of the company.