Design of the conveyor belt systems for bulk material transport at Geita gold mine using simulation method

Currently GGM is using the single mode of material transport from pits to the central ROM pad which is trucks and shovel system, this system has a high operating cost compared to overland conveyor belt system. The aim of this study was to design a conveyor belt system for bulk material transport at GGM using simulation method. Methodology used involves the selection of proper type of the conveyor belt system, establishment of the notional routes, calculating the design requirements, development of simulation program, and conduct risk analysis of the designed system. The findings of this study show that the processes of selecting the optimal material transport and handling system in most of the mines in Tanzania has become a common problem during the planning stages of the mine. This is because most mines are lured by the initial easy and cheaper start-up of mining operations using the truck-shovel system as compared to the high capital injection required initially by the Conveyor Belt. Overland conveyor belt system was concluded to be the best material transport system at GGM due to its low running cost. The study goes on to recommend the solutions to the problems found. GGM should be educated and sensitized on how the conveyor belt system reduces the running cost and improve production and it should focus on implementing reliable and cost effective material handling system.