Pre-Feasibility Studies

AMC is focused on mining smarter. And this focus is available in most regions and commodities from our world-renowned experts. Combining this experience with the latest modelling and planning techniques enables optimization of the highest quality and reporting to the international standards covered by CRIRSCO (such as the JORC Code, NI43-101, SAMREC and PERC).

AMC and Pre-Feasibility Studies

Progressing a resource project from a mineral resource estimate to a successful new mining operation is a complex, costly and time-consuming activity. Whether greenfields or brownfields, careful assessment of many factors across multiple professional disciplines, and a structured approach to the studies, has been proven to be the most cost-effective method of developing projects.

This assessment generally follows the following progression as more data becomes available:

Concept study - to provide an opportunity to identify the technical and economic potential of an early-stage resource and to justify approval of funding for more detailed studies. In the Canadian context this may include a Preliminary Economic Assessment.
Pre-Feasibility study - to collect sufficient information allowing an experienced consultant to assess many opportunities to select one that mitigates all material risks and best satisfies the objectives of the project owner using a variety of metrics. Using data and benchmarks, verified from many existing operations, we can quickly assess the confidence level of our planning work for use as input to the PFS, allowing selection of the favoured operation.
Feasibility Study – to prepare the technical and economic basis for one chosen option at sufficient level of confidence for preliminary regulatory assessment and financial approval to proceed to detailed design and construction. A Feasibility Study for one option is generally far more costly than multiple options considered at the Pre-Feasibility Study level.

The mining industry experts at AMC regularly conduct studies at all levels. Though our great passion and skill is to assess resources at the Pre-Feasibility Study stage to ensure the surface, underground or combined operations are based on a design that is tailored to the needs of the project owner. We evaluate the mineral resources, undertake the geotechnical assessment, study the mining methods, design the preliminary mining related infrastructure, and estimate the mining costs and schedule with appropriate accuracy, always keeping smart mining solutions at the forefront of our thinking.

With more than 300 Pre-Feasibility Study projects in our portfolio, we have a wealth of experience in many mining methods, commodities and geographical conditions needed for collecting reliable data and creating a strong Basis of Design for the favoured option. This Basis of Design provides the key input to allow competitive tendering for the Feasibility Study and ultimately construction of the project.

Why your Pre-Feasibility study matters

Collection of detailed information on exploration, geotechnical, hydrological, metallurgical, environmental and social factors may require commitment to a major exploration program (it is possible to commit $30M or more for ongoing exploration and development). For example, where reserves cannot be proven by surface drilling, a decline may be developed for exploration, sample collection and analysis at an early stage of the project.
A Pre-Feasibility Study is an important step in evaluating a project. It can be used as the basis for an initial Ore Reserve estimate under many reporting codes (such as the JORC Code) and subsequent attraction of buyers, joint venture partners or financiers, and helps identify potential capital at risk. This step in the life of a mine may, full or in part, be completed for potential purchasers as part of the due diligence process.
The Pre-Feasibility Study probably provides the best opportunity to influence the ultimate outcomes and returns of a project. Confidence in the Pre-Feasibility Study outcomes will allow commitment of the cost and time involved in a Feasibility Study with low risk of needing to repeat this costly step as more data becomes available. And the Pre-Feasibility level of analysis and subsequent conclusions allow a decision on whether to proceed to a Feasibility Study.

The main features of the Pre-Feasibility Study are:

Material risks to the project identified and mitigating steps proposed to allow more detailed data collection and assessment during the Feasibility Study stage.
The right Basis of Design identified before detailed design and cost estimation.
Trade-off studies completed to select preferred options from a range of alternatives.
Preliminary studies completed with resource, geotechnical, hydrology, geometallurgical, mining, processing, environmental, social, and infrastructure requirements in mind.
Bench scale metallurgical tests and preliminary process design completed.

Once a Pre-Feasibility Study is completed, our clients are generally ready to publicly report the results of studies to date and proceed to the more costly Feasibility Study with a better understanding of expected costs, potential mining industry solutions and the unearthed value of their new project.

Call us to discuss your study with the experts.

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What our clients say about us

Lidya Madencilik San ve Tic AS Hod Maden Project

"AMC has made valuable contributions to our Project team in successfully completing the critical design phases of the Hod Maden Project. AMC played an important role in getting the investment decision of the project by successfully performing resource modelling, geotechnical assessments, underground mine design, production planning, ventilation, dewatering, geometallurgy studies and economic analysis. In all processes, AMC provided full support at any time of need, as well as effective communication, problem-solving and result-oriented work in a team spirit."
- Hakan Hassoy, Project Coordinator

Ok Tedi Mining Limited

"In an unpredictable industry like mining, having a solid advisor such as AMC Consultants has been a significant asset to us at OK Tedi. AMC’s long history with our operation, deep knowledge and understanding of our challenges and opportunities, and breadth and depth of capabilities have consistently helped us achieve and even exceed our goals. We would not hesitate to recommend AMC to other operators looking for a trustworthy advisor for the life of their mine. For us, every dollar spent with AMC has more than paid for itself."
- Musje Werror, Managing Director and CEO

Northcott Capital Limited

"Working with the AMC Team for the first time, I was particularly impressed with the efficient management and coordination of the whole due diligence process, the clear identification and presentation of risks, risk mitigation and recommendations. We appreciate AMC’s help and support with the Engebø due diligence and look forward to working with the team again on other projects."
- Cyril Amadi, Managing Director

Eurasian Group

"Rob, James, Thank you so much for your excellent work performed on the project and high-quality, timely deliverables provided. It is always a great pleasure to work with you, gentlemen. Many, many thanks!"
- Ivan Kharitonov, Director of Internal Audit

Nyrstar Tennessee Mines

"I want to take this opportunity to thank-you personally Mort for excellent work and guidance during my team in Tennessee. It has truly been a pleasure working with you and your AMC partners. I was especially appreciative of your audits and sign-offs. I greatly appreciated your personal approach to auditing by mentoring and training. I am sure all the guys did as well. You have helped our staff grow and that is so critical to our industry."
- Steve Konieczki, MTS Manager

G-Resources

"AMC have successfully completed various projects for the Martabe Gold Mine over several years. In my area of responsibility these include Mineral Resource estimations, reconciliation reviews, due diligence style reviews and public reporting. AMC showed extraordinary levels of commitment to the success of these projects while maintaining their integrity and professional standards. I found AMC provided accurate and timely advice on both technical matters and the application of regulatory frameworks. I commend the individual consultants I dealt with at AMC and thoroughly recommend AMC’s services."
- Shawn Crispin, Chief Geologist

Iron Road Limited

"Iron Road Limited appointed AMC Consultants to review the mine design for its Central Eyre Iron Ore Project with a view to identify fatal flaws. The specific focus was on in-pit crushers, semi-mobile crushers, trucks, and excavators for the in-pit-crushing-and-conveying (IPCC) design. AMC also provided support to Iron Road in relation to CAPEX and OPEX estimates, and identified opportunities for improvement. AMC provided a quick and accurate assessment, identified a number of opportunities to enhance the design, and added value to the project while mitigating technical risk. AMC was able to deliver the project within the required timeframe and budget estimate, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and technical competence."
- Larry Ingle, General Manager

Kumba Iron Ore

"The Sishen mining team delivered a 15% increase in ore production for 2014. AMC’s expert knowledge in mine operations and planning was of great assistance in identifying significant opportunities that were ready for immediate implementation. AMC worked closely with the Sishen team in 2014 to assist in acting upon these opportunities. A highlight of AMC's work was its involvement in strategically re-designing the mine extraction sequencing. This work has greatly assisted the increase in 2014 ore production, while enabling production levels to be sustained over the remaining life-of-mine schedule. I would have no hesitation in recommending AMC’s services to any mine operator seeking real value delivery in these challenging market conditions."
- Theunis Otto, Head of Mining

Mongolian Mining Corporation

"AMC have been involved on a regular basis at UHG since 2010 and have been instrumental in training and mentoring local geotechnical staff with the expertise necessary to manage the challenging structural conditions on site. This has contributed substantially to the safety of our operation, with Mine Operations and Technical Services confident in the monitoring and controls in place."
- Sam Bowles, Chief Operating Officer

Copper Division of Anglo American in Santiago, Chile

"I had twice the opportunity to work with the AMC Consultants performing technical audits of our mining operations in Chile. It is of great advantage to Anglo American that The AMC Mining Consultants Ltd. has a wide range of mining expertise from exploration and evaluation of mineral resources through mine planning, mining schedule optimization to geotechnical assessments in both operational environments: open cast and underground mining. Indeed, the AMC group met our expectations carrying out its work diligently, with enthusiasm and technical excellence. In the execution of works the company AMC was exceeding our expectation proposing solutions and assessing us with eagerness and commitment. The objectives and deadlines were always achieved."
- Tomasz Wawruch, Mineral Resources Manager

Newcrest Mining Limited

"AMC Consultants has conducted independent Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Reviews for Newcrest Mining Limited since 2006. AMCs principal role is to provide confidence to the Newcrest board with respect to Newcrest’s public reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves and compliance with reporting codes. In addition AMC provides management reports that comment on areas of improvement that could be addressed by Newcrest in estimating Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Newcrest considers that AMC has conducted these reviews over a long period of time professionally and diligently and Newcrest considers that AMC contributes very positively to its corporate governance and its high professional standards."
- Colin Moorhead, Executive General Manager Minerals

Superintendent Sukari Gold mines

"We were seeking a consulting housing firm that could deliver geotechnical advice in a more efficient and economical way. AMC Consultants came onboard after a competitive bid and conducted a peer review to validate the suitability of existing risk mitigation strategies for our current open-pit and underground resources and reserves. Additionally, they meticulously reviewed Sukari’s NI 43-101 geotechnical aspects for competent person sign-off. AMC took the time to understand Sukari’s historical operations and quickly immersed themselves in the work done by our site team. Their flexibility allowed for an essential site visit, and they delivered necessary geotechnical reports promptly. Throughout the process, they remained open to discussions and tailored their approach to meet our requirements."
- Gabriel Chiti Chilala-Geotechnical Superintendent Sukari Gold mines

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