Simulação de uma operação de empilhamento de rejeito a seco

This study addresses the optimization of the iron ore tailings stacking process, an increasing alternative to the use of dams. The objective of the research is to develop a simulation model using Arena® software to identify bottlenecks and evaluate scenarios to optimize the operation of stacking filtered tailings. Real telemetry data and equipment production rates were obtained from a mining company located in the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The simulation results of a baseline scenario identified drying as the main bottleneck, responsible for the majority of the total layer elevation cycle time. Simulations of different scenarios optimizing the average daily drying rate resulted in a significant reduction in the layer elevation time and consequent increase in productivity. The model proved to be consistent with the dynamics, especially regarding the seasonality of production, which is impacted by rainfall, and demonstrated its viability as a tool for operational planning.