Feasibility StudiesJust trying to get my head around the levels of study and the terms we use. Turns out that the term PEA refers to an "Order of MAgnitude" feasibility study or Scoping Study. The 3 distinctive levels of study each have their own accuracy approximations:....
A
mining feasibility study is an evaluation of a proposed
mining project to determine whether the mineral resource can be mined economically. There are three types of feasibility study used in mining,
order of magnitude, preliminary feasibility and detailed feasibility.
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Order of magnitude
Order of magnitude feasibility studies (sometimes referred to as "scoping studies") are an initial financial appraisal of an indicated mineral resource. Depending on the size of the project an order of magnitude study may be carried out by a single individual. It will involve a preliminary mine plan, and are the basis for determining whether to proceed forward with an
exploration program, and more detailed engineering work. Order of magnitude studies are developed copying plans and factoring known costs from existing projects completed elsewhere and are accurate to within 40-50%.
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Preliminary feasibility
Preliminary feasibility studies or "pre-feasibility studies" are more detailed than order of magnitude studies. A preliminary feasibility study is used in
due diligence work, determining whether to proceed with a detailed feasibility study and as a "
reality check" to determine areas within the project that require more attention. Preliminary feasibility studies are done by factoring known
unit costs and by estimating gross dimensions or quantities once conceptual or preliminary engineering and mine design has been completed. Preliminary feasibility studies are completed by a small group of multi-disciplined technical individuals and have an accuracy within 20-30%.
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Detailed feasibility (Bankable)
Detailed feasibility studies are the most detailed and will determine definitively whether to proceed with the project. A detailed feasibility study will be the basis for
capital appropriation, and will provide the budget figures for the project. Detailed feasibility studies require a significant amount of formal engineering work, are accurate to within 10-15% and can
cost between ½-1½% of the total estimated project cost.