Maptek says “Vulcan is the ultimate toolkit for mining engineers, geologists and surveyors who need a powerful, integrated 3D environment for resource modelling, mine planning and production. The latest release, Vulcan 8.1, delivers performance improvements along with two new modules – Stope Optimiser and Short Term Planner. New modules include:

Short Term Planner

• Analyse open pit scheduling scenarios

• Create 3D period regions automatically

• Extract required information directly from block models

• All variables in block models can be used for cutoffs

• Reporting and statistics integrated with other Vulcan tools.

Stope Optimiser

• Assess multiple scenarios to target mineable zones

• Apply to very steep orebodies or horizontal benches

• Use for open pit or horizontal underground designs

• Analyse and compare stopes 

• Generate triangulations for design, reserves and scheduling

Upgraded functionality

• Underground ramp unfolding for easier grade analysis and plotting

• Determine fuel consumption when evaluating different haulage routes

• Store and manipulate more information in design data

• Draw legends in multiple planes

• Click on 3D data to link to external applications

• Easier digitising with hot key tracking

• Improved survey station management

Improved performance

• Multi-threading reduces time required to run optimisations by up to 99%

• Optimised run length compositing results in better resource determination

• Access acQuire managed databases faster

Streamlined display

• Redesigned interface for generating bench & batter projections

• Geotechnical utilities include tadpole and stickplot display options

• New grade control display toolbar for faster, easier viewing Integration with third party programs

• Share 3D data in documents and web using VRML and Ngrain formats

• Better support for AutoCAD files with large amounts of design data.