Overburden Removal Cost Calculator
Estimate the total cost of removing overburden (waste rock and soil) to access ore in open-cast mines, using the strip ratio and excavation unit rates.
Result
| Component | Rate | Monthly Cost (₹) |
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Disclaimer: This tool provides an indicative estimate for general planning only and is not professional, legal, financial, medical or engineering advice. Reference values are editable defaults that vary by location, vendor, regulation and date. Verify critical figures with a qualified professional. Varada Nexus accepts no liability for decisions made using this tool.
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Contact Varada Nexus for detailed consultationFAQ
What is BCM and how is it different from MT?
BCM (Bank Cubic Metre) is volume of rock in its natural (undisturbed) state. When blasted, rock swells 20–30% (Loose Cubic Metres). For cost purposes, BCM is used for design; after blasting use LCM.
What is a stripping ratio and how does it affect mine economics?
Strip ratio = tonnes of waste / tonne of ore. A SR of 5:1 means you must remove 5 BCM of waste for every tonne of ore. High SR increases cost and is the primary reason mines become uneconomic.
When does a mine become economically unviable?
When the cost of stripping + ore mining exceeds the net realisable value of the ore. Cut-off strip ratio = (ore value − ore processing cost) / OB removal cost per BCM.