Fuel Ratio Optimization for Hauling Activities
As a Mine Plan Engineer in the nickel mining, especially in mining contractor, one of my core responsibilities is ensuring that all operational activities to run efficiently, safely, and sustainably. In this discussion session, I collaborated with production team to analyze our fuel ratio. While it may seem like a purely technical metric, this number serves as a key indicator of our equipment's performance and operational efficiency in the pit. To reduce fuel ratio and improve hauling performance, we focused on several measurable indicators, including: ✅ Grade Optimization – Reducing grade of road where possible to minimize engine load. ✅ Rolling Resistance Management – Ensuring regular road maintenance (watering, grading, compacting) to reduce energy loss. ✅ Cycle Time Analysis – Evaluating loading, travel, and dumping times to minimize idle time and improve cycle efficiency. ✅ Payload Management – Monitoring truck loading to avoid underloading or overloading, which both negatively affect fuel usage. ✅ Speed & Gear Utilization – Ensuring proper driving behavior to match road profiles with the most fuel-efficient gear and speed settings. ✅ Refueling & Staging Strategy – Reducing unproductive travel by strategically locating fuel stations and optimizing standby areas. Fuel ratio optimization is not only about cost control, it's also a part of our strategy to support energy sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint of our mining operations. We reviewed historical data, current field conditions, and identified potential areas for improvement. Such as route optimization, cycle time efficiency, and equipment utilization strategies. Cross functional discussions like these are essential. Challenges in the field are rarely solved alone. They require team collaboration, open communication, and a shared understanding of the company’s long term goals. 💡 Mining smarter, not just harder.