EP 135: Fast-Tracking IPCC Feasibility: A Smarter Way to Evaluate In-Pit Crushing and Conveying

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Dr Tarrant Elkington (General Manager, Snowden Optiro) and Markus Dammers (Director IPCC & Conveyors, Metso) explore their rapid screening tool designed to speed up evaluation of In-Pit Crushing and Conveying (IPCC) options.

They discuss how the model helps mining operations quickly assess economic viability, reduce decision uncertainty, and identify where IPCC truly makes sense - saving valuable study time and capital.

If you’re in mine planning, haulage optimisation, or exploring electrification and sustainability in mining, this episode is packed with insight.

Key Points & Timeline
1:00 – Why the Paper and Model Were Developed
The challenge of evaluating IPCC options and the need for a quick, macro-economic decision framework.
3:30 – Complexity of IPCC Decisions
Discussing parameters such as pit depth, relocation timing, and haulage versus conveying trade-offs.
4:00 – Origins of the Rapid Screening Tool
How a practical spreadsheet model evolved to assess the feasibility of IPCC across multiple projects.
6:00 – Key Inputs and Parameters
Understanding capacity, conveyor length and lift, and the dynamic relationship between truck and conveyor economics.
8:00 – Macro-Economic Viewpoint
Why early-stage, big-picture modelling matters for major mine investment decisions.
9:00 – How the Model Works
Overview of how the Excel-based tool compares IPCC and trucking using NPV, IRR, and payback calculations.
11:00 – Ore vs Waste Applications
How the economics differ when applying IPCC to ore versus waste haulage scenarios.
12:00 – Building Reliable Cost Models
Markus explains Metso’s structured approach to estimating realistic capital and operating costs for crushers and conveyors.
15:00 – Accounting for Excavation and Ramp Design
Tarrant explains the importance of considering excavation and pit geometry in cost evaluation.
17:00 – Case Study Results
Findings from applying the tool to typical mining scenarios, comparing ex-pit and in-pit setups.
19:00 – Economic Sensitivities and Insights
Discussion of throughput, lift, and distance variables — and how they shape viability.
21:00 – Waste IPCC Economics
Why higher capacities and longer distances are needed to make waste IPCC feasible.
23:00 – Future Improvements and Next Steps
Potential refinements to the tool and how it could support more dynamic project planning.
24:30 – Closing Thoughts
How to access or apply the model for your own operation and where to contact the speakers.

If you would like to contact Tarrant or Markus: [email protected]

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Snowden Optiro:
Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors.
We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves.
Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/

Metso:
Metso is a frontrunner in sustainable technologies, end-to-end solutions and services for the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries globally. Metso's in-pit crush and convey (IPCC) solutions provide the highest energy efficiency and productivity for mine electrification programs. The Metso IPCC portfolio includes crushing, conveying and stacking equipment, which are flexible, modular and designed to be integrated together. For more information: https://www.metso.com/