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Performance analysis of transport systems in the Sibovc surface lignite mine based on the AHP-PROMETHEE approach (Kosovo)

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Category: Content №3 2026

Last Updated on 26 June 2026

Published on 30 November -0001

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Authors:

Ujmir Uka, orcid.org/0000-0003-3977-2852, Goce Delcev University, Faculty of Natural and Technical Science, Stip, North Macedoniap; University of Mitrovica “Isa Boletini”, Mitrovica, Kosovo

Risto Dambov, orcid.org/0009-0001-3984-2964, Goce Delcev University, Faculty of Natural and Technical Science, Stip, North Macedonia

Berat Sinani, orcid.org/0009-0009-3597-8782, University of Mitrovica “Isa Boletini”, Mitrovica, Kosovo

Kemajl Zeqiri*, orcid.org/0000-0001-9362-2156, University of Mitrovica “Isa Boletini”, Mitrovica, Kosovo, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

* Corresponding author e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

повний текст / full article

Naukovyi Visnyk Natsionalnoho Hirnychoho Universytetu. 2026, (3): 022 - 032

https://doi.org/10.33271/nvngu/2026-3/022

Abstract:

Purpose. To evaluate the performance of continuous, truck-shovel and hybrid transport systems in the Sibovc surface lignite mine using an integrated multi-criteria decision-making framework and to determine the most appropriate technological alternative under variable geological and operational conditions.

Methodology. The study applies an integrated AISM-AHP-PROMETHEE framework. The AISM approach was used to structure the decision-making problem and define the evaluation criteria. AHP was applied to determine criterion weights, while PROMETHEE was used to rank the alternatives. Three systems were considered: continuous BWE, truck-shovel and hybrid BWE+TS. The assessment was based on a consolidated 3 × 9 decision matrix including effective capacity, plan fulfillment, availability, OPEX, energy consumption, CO₂eq emissions, flexibility, HSE performance and outages. The criteria were classified as benefit or cost indicators, with calibrated preference and indifference thresholds.

Findings. The PROMETHEE ranking showed that the HYBRID BWE + TS system is the most preferable alternative for the Sibovc mine. The final ranking was HYBRID BWE + TS > BWE > TS. The hybrid system obtained the highest positive flow and the only positive net outranking flow,  = +0.220, while the BWE and TS systems obtained  = 0.055 and  = 0.165, respectively. Its advantage is mainly associated with operational flexibility, higher availability and reduced outage intensity.

Originality. The study adapts the AISM-AHP-PROMETHEE approach to the operational conditions of the Sibovc surface lignite mine by integrating production, economic, energy, environmental, flexibility and HSE-related criteria into a unified decision-making framework. The use of calibrated thresholds and criterion contribution analysis enables justification of the hybrid system’s priority through engineering interpretation.

Practical value. The results can support technological and investment planning in surface lignite mines. For the Sibovc mine, the hybrid system should be considered a gradual, selective solution, with the continuous BWE system remaining the primary production basis. At the same time, truck-shovel equipment is used in critical areas requiring additional flexibility. The framework can also be adapted to other surface lignite mines with similar geological and operational conditions.

Keywords: surface lignite mine, Sibovc mine, bucket-wheel excavator, truck-shovel system, hybrid transport system, multi-criteria decision-making

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