Implementation of an Optimised Mining Logistics Value Chain

Abstract

An increasing proportion of new mining supply chain project capital is being invested in the mineral transport logistics, usually including rail, terminal, port and shipping. In many greenfields projects, this proportion has reached 75% of total project capital. It is more capital and operating cost effective to add smaller increases to the capacity of existing logistics supply chains on a brownfields basis than to add new logistics supply chains. The capacity increases on the South African iron ore export supply chain are a good example of this.

The paper covers the phased planning and implementation of the whole South Africa iron ore supply chain capacity increase from mine to ship covering multiple stakeholders' interests. It addresses the capacity increases in mining, rail, port terminal bulk materials handling and port/marine aspects. In so doing engineering, procurement, construction as well as environmental and other streams were managed in a coordinated programme management approach to achieve on time, on budget and on specification delivery of the desired programme outcomes.