MNE 407 / 507 Equipment Operations Technology

Exam 1 – Fall 2021 Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Student Name: ID #:

Attempt all questions. If you will use any formula or chart, show the detailed
steps to get full credit. This is an open book exam. Please upload your
completed exam on d2l before leaving the meeting with Examity.

Project Background Information

An open pit mine is selecting equipment to produce 124,000 BCM of ore per day with a stripping
ratio of 2:1 (BCM: BCM).
Bank density (Ore) = 2.5 tons/BCM Swell factor (Ore) = 1.39
Bank density (Waste) = 2 tons/BCM Swell factor (Waste) = 1.33

Question # 1: Shovel Productivity [60 pts.]

Shovel Data: Cycle time = 34 sec; Dipper Capacity = 52 m3; Fill factor = 0.95; Availability =
0.95; Utilization = 0.85; Swing factor = 1.0. The shovels are scheduled for two 12-hour shifts per
day for 365 days a year.
VAR[Ct] = 3 (sec)2 VAR[A] = 4 (%)2 VAR[U] = 5 (%)2

1. Estimate the productivity of one shovel in tons/day for ore. (12 pts.)

2. How many shovels are required in ore and waste? (12 pts.)

3. What will be the standard deviation in tons/hr. for the shovel working in ore? (18 pts.)

4. What is the probability that the shovel production will be within ±7%. (18 pts.)

Question # 2: Front End Loader Selection using Net Present Cost/Value [40 pts.]

A mine is evaluating which of two FELs should be purchased. Both have the same production
performance and capacity and operate 8,000 hours per year for 10 years. FEL A has capital and
operating costs of $12 million and $320/hour respectively. FEL B has a capital and operating
costs of $14 million and $275/hr. The FELs are purchased and set up prior to starting the first
production period. They have a salvage value of 16% of purchase cost, credited at the end of
year 11. Using a discount rate of 12%, determine which FEL the mine should purchase.