Development of an integrated project sustainability model using digital mining solutions

Abstract

Deep-level gold mining in South Africa faces various economic and social challenges. It is thus crucial to implement successful and sustainable projects. Project management models and digital solutions have shown to increase the success rate of projects in other industries. Simulations and reporting have also shown great potential. Research has shown that projects tend to be implemented with a low degree of success. Project management models have shown to increase the success of projects. Various project management models exist in literature, but none can be directly applied to deep-level gold mining in South Africa. Due to the unique and complex nature of mining in South Africa a model is therefore required, that is tailored to this unique environment. The objective of the study was to develop an integrated project management model from literature, integrated simulations, and failed past projects. Key success factors from literature were analysed and their application to deep-level gold mining examined. A project management model with four main phases was developed. Failed projects on deep-level gold mines were investigated and it was found that projects in mining are not sustainable due to various reasons. One project was investigated in depth to understand why large capital projects tend to fail in mining. It was found that maintenance, resistance to change, and incorrect assumptions negatively influenced the project. These shortcomings were noted and incorporated into the model. A sustainable project management model was developed that can be applied to mining using digital solutions. The core of the model is to ensure sustainable projects in deep-level gold mining. By taking the best information from literature and learning from the past, the model will address the current shortcomings in the industry. The newly-developed model was applied to supply- and demand-side compressed air projects on an ultra-deep-level gold mine. The compressed air system of the mine was constantly over budget and was found to be inefficient. The system was investigated, and an integrated simulation constructed to scope projects. Case study 1 focussed on limiting the wastage of a compressed air network on a mine. The new project was developed while incorporating the sustainable project management model. new, cost effective refuge chamber valves were designed and installed on 160 refuge chambers on the shaft. The new valve ensured compliance while reducing the compressed air demand. Case study 2 was a re-evaluation and redesign of a failed project that had been implemented by the mine. The compressed air supply was controlled over a 24-hour period to match demand by means of control valves. Due to various reasons, the project was stopped. The control valve set-up was re-designed and implemented with great success and on time. The mentioned projects were designed, implemented and managed successfully with the new model and a sustainable financial saving of more than R11.7 million per annum (p.a.) was achieved while also improving service delivery.