Abstract
This report documents the results of a technical/economic feasibility analysis of alternate parting stowing techniques applicable to a representative, thick, multiseam surface mine in the Fort Union coal area. Methods are examined for their potential implementation, and an estimated operating cost per yard of material moved is developed. The methods are of two categories, castback or haulback. Haulback methods use truck haulage except with scrapers, and castback methods use direct stowage with no intermediate haulage equipment. Possible combinations include draglines, shovels, hydraulic backhoes, bucket wheel excavators, scrapers, and front end loaders. The purpose of this report is to evaluate the effective competitiveness of the various alternatives.
