Abstract

This study investigates the operational delays in dumper cycle time within open pit mines, focusing on the Thar coalfield in Pakistan. Efficient material handling processes are crucial for optimizing productivity and cost-effectiveness in mining operations. The dumper cycle time, encompassing loading, hauling, and dumping phases, directly impacts mine output and operational efficiency. This study aims to analyse these delays, identify root causes, and propose mitigation strategies to enhance material handling efficiency. Operational delays, including waiting times at loading and unloading stations, maintenance activities, and traffic congestion, are identified and analysed. Haul route interchange delays emerge as a major contributor to overall operational delays, emphasizing the importance of efficient traffic control and haul route design. The study underscores the implications of addressing operational delays for enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing resource utilization in open pit mines. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of material handling efficiency in open pit mining operations and provides valuable insights for improving operational performance and sustainability in the Thar coalfield, Pakistan.