Development of an oil sands tailings management simulation model

Abstract

Mine tailings management systems (TMS) consist of a web of inter-related sub-systems across multiple processes and disciplines. Conventional predictive models simulate individual physical processes but lack integration with the overall TMS. A dynamic system modeling approach was adopted to develop a model capable of simulating a TMS to facilitate the evaluation of operating strategies, design alternatives and dewatering technologies. Using a multitude of process-based, empirical, and qualitative formulations, the model incorporates major components of a TMS including tailings production, dewatering, deposition and impoundment water balance. Individual model processes (e.g. consolidation and deposition) were verified using experimental, analytical, or numerical data sets. A tailings plan from a hard rock mine was then simulated to evaluate the model. The simulated tailings deposit and water cap elevations as well as total impoundment volume were found to be within 5% deviation of the mine data, indicating the model is capable of simulating a TMS.