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Coffey offers Realistic Simulation to the Mining Industry

Announcement posted by Coffey International Ltd 06 Apr 2011

Advanced Numerical Modelling Solutions through Abaqus FEA

Dr. Stephan Arndt and Dr. Brent Fillery have recently joined Coffey Mining, bringing with them proven experience in advanced numerical modelling solutions for the mining industry. Using the world’s leading nonlinear finite element analysis software, Abaqus FEA from Simulia, the Dassault Systmes brand for realistic simulation, Coffey can now offer virtual simulation solutions to the industry to achieve the highest level of detail, accuracy and performance.

Coffey Mining’s in-house simulation capability will provide clients access to the full spectrum of state-of-the-art modelling solutions, such as large three-dimensional mine scale models incorporating pore water pressure and fault movement. Problems regarding pit slope stability, interaction between pit and underground operations, optimisation for mass mining methods, caving and fragmentation all benefit from these modelling and analysis tools.

This technology has the potential to reduce risk and substantially increase profits of mines, as the industry enables simulation tools in the design process. Safety evaluations, improvements in design planning, operations and implementation are all possible. According to Dr. Arndt, “Abaqus FEA improves the effectiveness of mine modelling and analysis and allows the integration of the advanced numerical modelling into day-to-day mine planning and monitoring in a systematic manner.”

Advanced numerical modelling represents a paradigm shift in mine design and engineering simulation, and combined with an innovative team headed by Dr. Stephan Arndt, will lead to the development of innovative, new solutions for the industry. He explained, “We approach the issue of mining modelling solutions from the position of ’what is possible’ – we believe this has the potential to be a game changer for an industry that is moving towards larger, deeper and more difficult projects. Recent advances in computer performance and software reduce costs and significant benefits ensure realistic simulation plays a valuable role in the industry.”

Coffey Mining Manager, Rob Slater, said, “We are excited to introduce this service to our clients. As a company, we are committed to deliver extraordinary solutions. With Dr. Stephan Arndt and Dr. Brent Fillery leading this initiative we can provide specialist knowledge for the mining industry in a discipline that is at the forefront of technology.”

Dr. Stephan Arndt has a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Technical University Berlin, Germany, and holds a PhD in Fracture Mechanics. He has worked on mine planning simulations in consulting work and feasibility studies for some of the largest mining companies and projects worldwide. He co-founded Beck Arndt Engineering in 2005, a consulting company that specialised in mine planning and mining engineering for extreme environments, where he was a Director and Principal Mechanical Engineer. He has 15 years experience using Abaqus software and regularly teaches Nonlinear Finite Element Methods at the University of Western Australia.

Dr. Brent Fillery has a Bachelor of Science – Applied Mathematics, Bachelor of Engineering Mechanical (First Class Honours) and a Doctor of Philosophy, each from the University of Western Australia. He has been involved in both research and consulting activities, the prior with a specific focus on numerical fracture mechanics in structures operating in challenging thermal environments, the latter extends to in-depth vessel integrity analyses through utilisation of computational fracture mechanics assessment and application of computational rock mechanics for analysis of multi-scale open pit and underground mine design.

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Media contacts

Prue Bowley, External Communications Manager, Coffey

T +61 8 8375 4400; E: prue_bowley@coffey.com


About Coffey

Coffey International Limited (ASX:COF) is a publicly listed company that has been operating for more than 50 years. We have a range of specialist businesses working in the social and physical infrastructure markets, and collectively, we aim to achieve our vision: to be global specialists solving emerging challenges to improve the lives of communities.

Around the world, we are providing services at every stage of the infrastructure lifecycle – starting with planning and financing the project, through development and resolving the technical challenges to the management of resources, timelines and budgets. The cycle continues as we use our specialist knowledge to ensure objectives continue to be met in the long term and infrastructure is appropriately maintained.

Our work involves a wide range of built assets – including roads, buildings, gas pipelines, mines, and sporting facilities – just about everything that is required to meet the demands of a growing world population, rapid urbanisation and heightened environmental sustainability awareness.

Through our expertise, we are also enabling government and aid agencies to strengthen local communities, increasing quality of life and living standards. We develop mechanisms and manage projects across a range of social infrastructure, including economic development, education and training and health.

We have over 3,000 people working on projects in more than 80 countries and permanent offices throughout the Americas, Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East. Our plans are to continue expanding our specialist businesses through organic, transformational and acquisition growth.

Visit coffey.com for more information.