Recent Expansion of Morenci's In-Pit Crushing and Conveying System

The recently completed In-Pit Crushing and Conveying Project at Phelps Dodge's Morenci Mine is rated among the world's leading materials handling projects. The operation involves the crushing and transport of more than 109,000 tonnes per day of copper ore, utilizing regenerative conveyors capable of providing over 5.5 megawatts (7,000 hp) of equivalent electrical energy. This paper describes the key aspects of the project and includes: Original project objectives; System design criteria; System description; Optimization studies; Major design features; Equipment description; and System commissioning.