Theory of Constraints

Applied to Strip Mining Operations

The “Theory of Constraints” (TOC) was developed by Dr. Goldratt in the 1980s and ‘90s, and has attracted many large and small companies who realised substantial improvements in their operations.

Much of the “improvement mindset” reflected the growth of the body of TOC knowledge which was previously segmented by different business areas.

The fundamental principles of Theory of Constraints are embodied in the “five focussing steps” which revolve around managing physical machinery (rarely) and non-physical policies and practices (mostly). LC has conducted in-depth research into applying TOC particularly to strip mining operations. By focussing the attention away from utilisation of resources to the material flow through the system, a number of areas can be improved. Possible benefits include increased system throughput (increased profits), decrease of inventory (better cashflow), more robust planning, and better productivity risk analysis.

Our original approach allows us to properly analyse multi-pit, multi-seam, multi-method mines with respect to TOC, and focusses on improvements for the whole of the mine, not just individual sections. Our strategy is to provide directions to incremental improvements, applying changes and realising benefits in small easy steps.

LC’s consulting expertise can help to identify the actual (not imagined) bottlenecks in your mining activities and provide strategies to best guide your process and maximise efficiencies from start to finish.

Please Contact Us to learn more about how LC can help you improve your operations.

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News...

Jan 2012 - Reducing Precious Metals in Fuel Cell Catalysts

LC Energy has been awarded a contract to work on reducing the platinum content of catalysts used in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells. [More]

Sept 2011 - Tesla Roadster show'n'tell visit

The Tesla Roadster on show around Australia pays a visit to LC at the Goodna Technology Park. [More]

Mar 2011 - LC appoints new CEO - Dr Des Muller

Des Muller joins LC as CEO providing owner and founder Bruce Leslie opportunity to focus efforts on the R&D aspects of the business. [More]

Feb 2011 - LC certified as a Registered Research Agency

LC was officially appointed as a Registered Research Agency (RRA) by AusIndustry in 2010. [More] [RRA Website]

Feb 2011 - TERRAIN SWEEPER™ DTM article

LC Products TERRAIN SWEEPER™ - DTM - Digital Terrain Mapping system features in Industry Hub news. [Read Article]

Archived News

Jan 2011 - LC offices avoid floods while shed goes under

LC offices fortunately avoided being flooded by a mere metre or so though the scale test facility and shed went totally under. [See More Pics]

Sep 2010 - 3 Students complete Undergraduate Theses projects at LC

Three Students successfully complete undergraduate theses with LC, all scoring High Distinctions for their efforts. [More]

Jul 2010 - Focus Systems Engineering joins Goodna Technology Park

LC welcomes Focus Systems Engineering to GTP, adding specialisation in electrical and automation technologies to the campus. [Visit Website]

Jun 2010 - LC Corporate Image Revamped

We have completed a rebranding and launched a new set of company logos. [Read more]

Sep 2009 - LC CEO, Bruce Leslie - Australian Institute of Management - meAwards Finalist

Bruce Leslie, CEO of LC was a finalist at the AIM Management Excellence Awards on Friday 10th of September. [More]

Jul 2009 - LC Graduates as Queensland Leaders Member

LC received Graduating Member Award on Friday 3rd of July. Queensland Leaders aims to develop the next generation of international corporations headquartered in Queensland. [More]

Jun 2009 - LC approved as ClimateSmart Business Cluster Leader

LC has been approved by the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management as a ClimateSmart Business Cluster Leader for the Western Corridor of Brisbane. [More] [South-West News Article]

Features...

LC Youth skills development community program

LC has been working with remote indigenous communities in and around Yirrkala in NE Arnhem Land (Yolngu people) since 2006. The skills development program assists Yolngu school leavers to bridge the gap between western and Yolngu cultures through work experience placements leading toward university schooling. [More]