A Class 3 bankable feasibility study for a greenfield open pit project typically takes 9–14 months from scope definition to final report. Underground projects and complex metallurgy (HPAL, refractory gold) typically require 12–18 months. The critical path is usually metallurgical testwork (6–9 months) and geotechnical investigation (4–6 months) — both of which should begin before the formal feasibility study commences.

A pre-feasibility study (AACE Class 4, ±30%) is used to select the preferred development option and confirm the project is worth advancing. A bankable feasibility study (AACE Class 3, ±20%) is the minimum standard required for institutional project financing, NI 43-101/JORC reserve declaration, and construction decision. The key differences are: engineering completion (1–15% vs. 10–40%), pricing basis (factored vs. vendor quotes), and contingency methodology (fixed % vs. Monte Carlo).

The cost of a Class 3 feasibility study is typically 0.5–1.5% of the project's estimated CAPEX. For a $500M project, this means $2.5–7.5M. The wide range reflects project complexity: a simple heap leach operation costs less than a complex HPAL plant. KDMine provides fixed-price proposals with clearly defined scope — no scope creep surprises. Contact us for a project-specific proposal within 5 business days.

Yes. KDMine has registered QPs under NI 43-101 (Canada) and CPs under JORC (Australia/international) on staff. Our QPs and CPs are members of recognised professional organisations including APEGBC, AusIMM, and SME. We can provide QP/CP sign-off for all technical sections of the feasibility study, including geology, mining, processing, and economics.

Minimum data requirements for a Class 3 feasibility study: (1) Geological resource model with supporting drill data, (2) Metallurgical testwork results (minimum 500kg composite samples), (3) Geotechnical investigation data, (4) Site survey and topographic data, (5) Environmental baseline data (12 months minimum). We can advise on data gaps and help design additional investigation programs.

Yes. Iran and Central Asia are core markets for KDMine Group. We have completed 18 feasibility studies in Iran (copper, iron ore, zinc, lead, gold) and 8 in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan). Our team includes Persian and Russian-speaking engineers with deep knowledge of local regulatory frameworks, equipment import logistics, labour markets, and energy costs.