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PUBLIC hearings began before the Committee for Reciprocity Information on May 24, 1950, for the purpose of unearthing data and opinion that will be helpful in the forthcoming reciprocal tariff and other trade-barrier negotiations at Torquay, England, on September 28th of this year. The conference this fall will constitute the "third round" of tariff negotiations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade concluded at Geneva in 1947. The United States plans to negotiate with 17 other countries on possible tariff modifications on various articles all the way from baby carriages and bottle caps to lead and zinc-bearing ores. On May 31, June 1 and June 2, spokesmen appeared before the Committee for Reciprocity Information on behalf of the domestic lead and zinc mining industries. Producers of these metals protested the inclusion of paragraphs 391 (lead-bearing ores, dust and mattes), 392 (lead bullion, lead in pigs and bars, and scrap lead), 393 (zinc-bearing ores of all kinds), and 394 (zinc in blocks, pigs or slabs, and zinc dust) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended in the list of articles to be considered for possible tariff concessions at Torquay. It was pointed out that although operating costs have more than doubled since 1939 tariffs on these metals were actually higher in that year than at present. This, coupled with the detrimental effects of the recent series of devaluations, has sounded the death knell for a substantial number of domestic lead and zinc mines-a most undesirable development in the face of the ominous international situation, according to these spokesmen. It was urged that higher rather than lower tariff rates are needed on these metals. The opinion was expressed that it was inconsistent to foster a high living standard in our western areas and then, once it is attained, to undermine that condition by minimizing the protection that was partly responsible for it. The main theme of some arguments implied that although every effort should be made to close the "dollar gap" abroad, serious consideration must be given the methods employed lest our national security position be jeopardized in the process. The House Committee on Foreign Affairs completed hearings on H. J. Res. 236, to provide for United States membership and participation in the International Trade Organization. Hearings began on April 19th and ran for over five weeks. Many witnesses from industry and government presented voluminous testimony, which will not be available for public distribution for several weeks. However, it is no secret that the most controversial provisions of the Draft Charter of the ITO are: (1) Article 17 (Chapter IV on Commercial Policy) which would obligate members to negotiate for the reduction of tariffs and the elimination of trade preferences; (2) Article 20 which would prohibit the use of quantitative restrictions for protective purposes; (3) Article 16 which promulgates rules to implement the principle of non-discrimination in international trade; and (4) provisions permitting the use of protective measures for promoting economic development, particularly in backward areas, even though such provisions are inconsistent with those of the three articles cited above. United States membership in the International Trade Organization is essential to the successful operation of that body in view of this country's position as the economic giant in the present international trade pattern. Many countries are reluctant to take any action toward the ratification of the charter until it is known what course America will pursue. However desirable or undesirable the ideal of free multilateral trade may be it is unlikely that this Government's participation in the ITO will materialize soon. Advices in Washington indicate that H. J. Res. 236 will not be enacted during the present session of Congress. The legislative pattern designed to secure Congressional approval of the ITO is similar to that of the St. Lawrence Seaway project. The Seaway project was pending in treaty form for several years before the Foreign Relations Committee of the Senate and when the Administration decided to incorporate this project into bill form it was found that, while it passed the House promptly, the Senate decided to pigeonhole it because of the obvious intent to circumvent the constitutional prerogative of the Senate to advise and consent to the ratification of treaties. The ITO bill may be slated for a similar fate. It is deemed essential by western Senators and Congressmen that the present session of Congress enact some form of mining legislation before its adjournment, now set for July 31st. These legislators from prominent ore-producing states do not desire to return to their home areas in the fall emptyhanded. Aside from that, it is entirely superfluous to reiterate the necessity for maintaining a healthy domestic mining industry as a bulwark against a sharp rise in the temperature of the "cold war". Now that S. 2105 has failed a new bill is taking shape in the Senate Interior and Insular Affairs Committee. It is similar in language to H. R. 8221 (to encourage the conservation and development of the mineral resources of the United States) reported by the House Public Lands Committee on May 3, 1950, but so far has failed to receive approval of the House Committee on Rules. There are some qualified observers in high circles in Washington as well as in the mining industry who favor a tax incentive program to stimulate investment in mining enterprises, as opposed to a conservation and exploration program. The Bureau of Mines and the Treasury Department have undertaken a joint study to determine the need for modification of the tax laws as they apply to mining. The study is scheduled for completion before the end of the year, and appears to be supplementary to the investigation initiated by the National Minerals Advisory Council which culminated in the submittal of recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior in December 1949. The "cold war" is largely responsible for the increased demand for metals. Stock-pile purchases and heavy industrial demand due to military needs distort markets and disrupt normal price trends. Such activity has an unhealthy influence on metal production, luring some producers into a state of dependency on the continuation of this condition. When stock-pile objectives are met sometime in the future purchases must then come to a halt unless international "fireworks" are touched off. It can only be hoped that technological improvements and further mechanization of mines coupled with the stimulus of a rising population will offset the anticipated drop in industrial demand and cessation of stockpile purchases when the international crisis abates.

Jan 7, 1950

By D. Lum

The limestone resources of Hawaii are derived chiefly from emerged fringing coral reef and coastal dune deposits of Pleistocene age. These deposits are most abun¬dant on the island of Oahu and other older islands and least abundant on the island of Hawaii, the youngest. Their origin and depositional environment were influenced by glacio-eustatic rising and falling of sea levels during Pleis¬tocene time. Dredged reef limestone deposits from two deep-water harbor projects have provided additional re¬sources. Limestone uses include cement and lime manufac¬turing, concrete sand and aggregate, road base material, beach sand replenishment, agricultural lime, and golf course construction.

Jan 1, 1984

By J. W. Stewart

THE aim of this paper is to point out the various ways in which design is taught in standard four-year mining engineering curricula in American colleges and universities; to discuss the reasons apparently justifying the great diversity of procedure that exists along this line; and to indicate possible solutions to the difficulties now attending the teaching of design. A study was made of typical four-year mining engineering curricula in 15 colleges and universities of the United States (Table I). Great diversity in content of the various design courses, if taught as described, became apparent immediately. It appeared that it might be both interesting and instructive if the cause for this colorful variety could be found. Was the cause local mining conditions, departmental individuality, or actual necessity? Study of the school catalogues revealed that the various design courses could be classified into two fairly distinct types; namely, (I) those dealing with mine equipment or structures, and (2) those dealing with underground layout of mine workings. It seemed reasonable to label the first type of course "mining design" and the second type "mine design." Some such distinction must have been in the minds of mining educators, for we find both names (i.e., mine design and mining design) used to designate the design courses included in the various mining curricula. Unhappily, the name and the apparent content of such courses do not, in all instances, conform to the classification made here, although in most instances such conformation does obtain (Table I). It is possible that in the exceptional case the method of teaching a design course, and consequently the content of it, may have been changed at some time without change in the name of the course. Apparently only 3 of the 15 schools made an effort to cover both types of design in their curricula (Table I). Two other schools did not list or describe any course of study that could with certainty be taken as a design course. Of the remain¬ing to schools, 9 gave a mining-design type of course and one gave a strictly mine-design type. Obviously, the preponderance of design courses afforded are of the mining-design type. Why? To answer this question, it is necessary to make a study of the prerequisites for the two types of design courses taught. In all schools the design courses were taught in the senior year; in eight, design was taught throughout both semesters; in two, it was taught during the first semester only; and in three it was taught during the second semester only. Consequently, excepting the last three cases noted, it is obvious that all prerequisites for a design course should be completed by the end of the junior year. PREREQUISITES What are the probable prerequisites for the different kinds of design courses as they appear to be taught? Let us take first the case of the mine-design type of course, having to do with layout of underground workings. Here it would seem that logical

Jan 1, 1941

By Kevin B. Doyle

The export markets are of great importance to western Canadian sulfur producers, taking 70% of total products sold. For these marketers, Canadians have always supplied solid sulfur, first in a crushed, bulk form, and for the past several years in a slate form. Both form have proved inadequate for safety and environmental reasons, and new forms and processes have been developed by interested suppliers. The Canadian industry has evaluated these processes and ha made a determination of a desired Product specfication that will greatly enhance the acceptability of future Products from safety, environmental, and customer points of view. The new processed methods and resulting product characteristics are reviewed.

Jan 1, 1980

By D. Hartley

United States Steel Corp's. Minntac mine is located at Mt. Iron, Minn. on the Mesabi Iron range. The taconite pit is two miles wide, with a maximum depth of 170 ft. Millions of tons of crude ore, waste rock, and surface overburden are handled annually at the mine. All crude ore plus some of the lower-grade rock are rail-hauled; other materials are trucked. Length of rail haul averages 3.5 mi, with a lift of 140 ft. The maximum grade against the load is 1 ½ %. Nine 1200 hp diesel-electric locomotives handle trains of 40-and 50-cu yd side dump cars in crude ore and lower-grade rock service. In addition to this continuous operation, locomotives handle coarse tailings disposal and switching duties on an intermittent basis. All railroad equipment operates under the supervision of a mine control foreman through voice radio communication. The pit foreman also has this frequency available, quickly accommodating any changes in operation that may be required.

Jan 1, 1970

By John R. Dyni

Colorado nahcolite deposits, estimated at 29 Gt, formed in an asymmetric permanent-lake basin whose waters were rich in algae and sulfate-reducing bacteria. Nahcolite (NaHCO3) occurs in oil shale of the Green River Formation (Eocene) as aggregates (62%), disseminated crystals (24%), and impure beds (13%). Because much of the nahcolite is nonbedded, it will be mined with oil shale and can be concentrated to marketable grade by crushing and screening. Impurities in nahcolite are kerogen, quartz, pyrite, and carbonate minerals. A promising new market for nahcolite is in the process of removal of sulfur dioxide from industrial stack gases. When heated, nahcolite reacts with sulfur dioxide to form sodium sulfate. Differences in thermally induced microporosity may explain why nahcolite is more reactive than trona, a Possible competitor with nahcolite for SO2 removal. Limited production of nahcolite at one or possibly two localities is expected in the next several years, but large-scale production is probably at least 10 years away.

Jan 1, 1982

By George Rice

VENTILATION of underground workings to fur-nish air of good quality to workers is now the accepted practice for all kinds of mining; but in coal mining it is also a requirement vital for safety to have systematic coursing of the air to all parts of a mine so that fire damp can be diluted and carried away. These two basic needs are recognized in the codes of every country or State where coal is mined, and each has its own system of ventilation requirements. With the same fundamental requirements, varying in degree but not in kind, the surprising thing is that these and other features of regulatory codes should vary so-wide-ly that their provisions on the same subject bear hardly any resemblance to one another. This was strikingly brought out in the paper given before this institute in 1926, on "State Coal-Mining Laws Concerning Ventila-tion1. The explanation ordinarily is that the geologic forma-tions and the mining conditions and methods differ in the various coal fields. Although that is true, in most countries and States the variations in the differ-ent mining districts within each country or state vary widely, and the respective codes must be made to apply by special provisions to meet the variations in thickness of coal, depth,. dip, character of roof, and presence or absence of gas. Evidently the great diversity in codes is due to the method of formulating them. Some are prepared by political commissions in which partisan interests are a factor; others originated in the early days of mining with meager outlines and were so amended by legisla-tive acts or administrative orders from year to year as to become complicated and ambiguous, and pro-visions in different parts of a single law are often contradictory. Such laws have therefore been difficult to interpret and to enforce adequately.

Jan 5, 1928

By M. Cross

The main results from a programme of theoretical work on various aspects of the pelletizing operation are presented. This paper is primarily concerned with the modelling of: (i) The balling drum operation. A model is outlined which clearly demonstrates the characteristic surging behaviour of the balling circuit. It is used first in a control analysis and, subsequently, in the design and testing of various control schemes. (ii)The grate-kiln-cooler induration process. Models describing each of the constituent processes are outlined and a composite model of the whole induration process presented. The main results from each of these models are discussed.

Jan 1, 1977

By Charles A. Colton

The results of a series of analyses extending over a period of three weeks at the Cedar Point Iron Company's furnace, Port Henry, New York, are given in Tables I and 11. This furnace uses a very pure magnetite and Lehigh and Lackawanna anthracite. The flue leading the gas from the "down-comer" to the boilers was tapped by a 2 inch gas pipe, which carried the gas to the Orsat apparatus. The pressure of the gas not always being sufficient, owing to the small amount made, to force it into the apparatus, I omitted taking samples several days, and with the exception of the last three days of the campaign, made the analyses whenever opportunity offered. I find the Orsat apparatus, as described by Prof. Egleston," to work very well, with one exception. The CO is not absorbed as readily in the ammonia-copper solutiou as he states in his description of the apparatus, as many as 50, and sometimes GO, passes being necessary to absorb all the CO. The power of absorbing rapidly increases as the solution is used, and this would indicate that the more oxygen it contains the quicker will it do the work. Probably the addition of a small amount of some oxidizing agent would remedy this. When the furnace was working in its normal condition, I had no occasion for using the filter, the amount of fume being so small as not to canse any inconvenience. The gas burned with the flame peculiar to CO, and contained just enough solid particles to give it a slight reddish tinge.

Jan 1, 1879

By Adam L. Wesner, A. C. Richardson

This paper describes the development of a continuous float-and-sink process to produce coal low enough in ash content to be suitable for production of electrodes. The cleaned coal had a combined iron and silicon content of 0.239 pct. The efficiency of recovery was 84 pct. DURING World War I1 the demand for electrode carbon was greater than could be met by the supply of petroleum coke available for this use. It was believed that coke made from an extremely low-ash coal might be a suitable substitute for petroleum coke. Requirements for electrode carbon to be used for the production of aluminum are that the silicon plus iron content shall be not more than 0.14 pct of the coke. However, during the period when petroleum coke was in short supply, it appeared that relaxations of the specifications might be allowed to permit 0.4 pct iron plus silicon in the coke. For this work, the specifications were that the coal should contain less than 1 pct of ash, and the combined iron and silicon content of the coal should not exceed 0.28 pct. Heavy-liquid separations made on a number of coals showed that if certain size fractions of some coals Were separated at low specific gravities the resulting float products would meet the required specifications. The objective of this work was to develop a continuous, commercially feasible process for producing low-ash coal. After consideration of various processes, the method chosen was a float-and-sink separation using a solution of calcium chloride as the separating medium. Eagle Seam coal was used for the experiments. The —10 +35 mesh fraction was found to be the most promising feed for producing the low-ash content coal. A batch of 30 tons of — --in. coal was screened at 10 and 35 mesh; the yield of —10 +35 mesh was 20 pct of the feed. This fraction comprised the feed for the separation tests. In spite of the fact that this portion was screened a second time at 35 mesh, the coal still contained 16 pct that was finer than 35 mesh. Three-fourths of the undersize was in the —35 +48 mesh range. A representative portion of the —10 +35 mesh fraction was subjected to batch float-and-sink separations to determine the best gravity to be used in the continuous tests to obtain a high recovery of low-ash content coal. The heavy liquid used was a mixture of carbon tetrachloride and benzene which assured complete wetting of all of the particles. As usual in batch separations, adequate time was allowed for each separation so that even the near gravity particles had ample time to separate. The separations were made at increments of 0.01 sp gr from 1.25 to 1.28 and also at 1.32 and 1.59. Each specific-gravity increment was assayed for ash content. From these data it was concluded that 1.27 sp gr was best for the continuous separation of the coal. The products from the batch separation were composited into float 1.27 and sink 1.27 sp-gr fractions; these were assayed for ash, iron, and silicon. Table I shows the results of the batch separations. The composite float 1.27 fraction contained 66.04 pct of the total weight, and had an analysis of 0.79 pct ash, 0.073 pct iron, and 0.112 pct silicon, or 0.185 pct iron and silicon combined. These data are indicative of the results possible if a perfect separation is made at 1.27 sp gr under static conditions. Inasmuch as the method under investigation is a dynamic system these results could not be obtained. It remained to be determined, however, just how close to the theoretical results the actual continuous separation would be.

Jan 1, 1953

By Adam L. Wesner, A. C. Richardson

This paper describes the development of a continuous float-and-sink process to produce coal low enough in ash content to be suitable for production of electrodes. The cleaned coal had a combined iron and silicon content of 0.239 pct. The efficiency of recovery was 84 pct. DURING World War I1 the demand for electrode carbon was greater than could be met by the supply of petroleum coke available for this use. It was believed that coke made from an extremely low-ash coal might be a suitable substitute for petroleum coke. Requirements for electrode carbon to be used for the production of aluminum are that the silicon plus iron content shall be not more than 0.14 pct of the coke. However, during the period when petroleum coke was in short supply, it appeared that relaxations of the specifications might be allowed to permit 0.4 pct iron plus silicon in the coke. For this work, the specifications were that the coal should contain less than 1 pct of ash, and the combined iron and silicon content of the coal should not exceed 0.28 pct. Heavy-liquid separations made on a number of coals showed that if certain size fractions of some coals Were separated at low specific gravities the resulting float products would meet the required specifications. The objective of this work was to develop a continuous, commercially feasible process for producing low-ash coal. After consideration of various processes, the method chosen was a float-and-sink separation using a solution of calcium chloride as the separating medium. Eagle Seam coal was used for the experiments. The —10 +35 mesh fraction was found to be the most promising feed for producing the low-ash content coal. A batch of 30 tons of — --in. coal was screened at 10 and 35 mesh; the yield of —10 +35 mesh was 20 pct of the feed. This fraction comprised the feed for the separation tests. In spite of the fact that this portion was screened a second time at 35 mesh, the coal still contained 16 pct that was finer than 35 mesh. Three-fourths of the undersize was in the —35 +48 mesh range. A representative portion of the —10 +35 mesh fraction was subjected to batch float-and-sink separations to determine the best gravity to be used in the continuous tests to obtain a high recovery of low-ash content coal. The heavy liquid used was a mixture of carbon tetrachloride and benzene which assured complete wetting of all of the particles. As usual in batch separations, adequate time was allowed for each separation so that even the near gravity particles had ample time to separate. The separations were made at increments of 0.01 sp gr from 1.25 to 1.28 and also at 1.32 and 1.59. Each specific-gravity increment was assayed for ash content. From these data it was concluded that 1.27 sp gr was best for the continuous separation of the coal. The products from the batch separation were composited into float 1.27 and sink 1.27 sp-gr fractions; these were assayed for ash, iron, and silicon. Table I shows the results of the batch separations. The composite float 1.27 fraction contained 66.04 pct of the total weight, and had an analysis of 0.79 pct ash, 0.073 pct iron, and 0.112 pct silicon, or 0.185 pct iron and silicon combined. These data are indicative of the results possible if a perfect separation is made at 1.27 sp gr under static conditions. Inasmuch as the method under investigation is a dynamic system these results could not be obtained. It remained to be determined, however, just how close to the theoretical results the actual continuous separation would be.

Jan 1, 1953

By C. S. Finney, John Mitchell

There is no field of human thought or endeavor which does not owe much to the past. Yet, surrounded by the prodigious scientific and technological achievements of our day, it is all too easy to forget the extent to which we have stood on the shoulders of giants. The coking industry of the United States is now a little more than one hundred years old. As with the American nation itself, the earliest beginnings of the industry owe a great deal to British influences, and its development owes much to those influences of continental Europe. No serious contribution to the history of coking in the United States can be written, therefore, which does not mention the work of the pioneers of the Old World. It is believed that the use of metallurgical coke dates back to antiquity. The fact that certain coals would soften under the influence of heat to yield a porous solid was known to the ancients of China and India, where a very crude coking operation was carried out by simply setting fire to piles of coal. After active combustion had started, turf or wet straw was used to seal off the pile. The coke obtained was used to forge iron and steel implements and weapons. Perhaps the earliest reference to the coking phenomenon is to be found in the writings of Theophrastus, pupil of Aristotle. In his History of Stones, which was written in or about the year 371 B.C., there appears the following observation. "But the Lipara stone empties itself, as it were, in burning and becomes like the pumice, changing at once both its colour and density; for before burning it is black, smooth and compact.... Certain stones there are about Tetras, in Sicily, which is over against Lipara, which empty themselves in the same manner in the fire." The first comparatively modern reference to coke is to be found in a recommendation for carbonization made in 1584 by Julius, Duke of Braunschweig-Luneberg, owner of the Hohenbuchen mine in the Harz district of Germany. In 1587, Sir Francis Willoughby of. Wollaton, England wrote: "There are twenty rooks broughte into charcoal and laid up in store." A rook of coal was equivalent to some 25 tons, and the coking would probably have been carried out in a manner similar, to that used for the production of charcoal. In 1589, Thomas Proctor attempted to carbonize coal, and in the year 1590 an English patent was granted to John Thornborough, Dean of York, in order that he might "purify pit coal and free it of its offensive smell". Sir Robert Cecil (1595), Robert Chantrell (1607), Simon Sturtevant (1611) and John Rovenzon (1613) were all granted patents for the use of coal or coke

Jan 1, 1961

By Henry E. Armitage

The object of this paper is to give a few useful hints on the concentration of low-grade ores. The machines that I shall speak of are, Cornish rolls, revolving screens, Hartz jigs, spitz-lutte, and the Linkenbach buddle (or Roberts's patent buddle, as it is called in Colorado). I think the reason why some of them have been discarded in favor of more recent inventions is that they have not been given a fair chance to do their work in a satisfactory manner. Cornish rolls are usually looked upon as a machine designed simply to crush the ore as a preliminary to sending it to the sizingscreens, beyond which they have nothing to do with dressing the ore. On the contrary, the rolls give the key-note to the whole process. It is well known that one class of rock will crush differently from another, and from the result obtained by passing the ore through the rolls the size of the first revolving screen and the surface required on the jig-screens must be determined. If it is found that the mineral crushes clear from the quartz, a large mesh can be used on the first sizing-screen, and the tailings will not require recrushing ; but if it is found that some of the tailings from the first jig are ragged (that is, are carrying off particles of mineral sticking on the quartz), it will be necessary to recrush them. Again, if a large percentage of the tailings carry off mineral, it will be more economical to commence with a finer mesh screen than to recrush the tailings. Having determined the best mesh to use on the first sizing-screen, the different sizes on the other screens can be determined from it. I have found for practical purposes that, commencing with a 6-mesh, the next should be 8, then 12, and finally 18. The holes in the jig-screens should be a trifle larger than in the revolving screens. For instance, if the revolving screen is made of No. 14 wire, the corresponding jig-screeus should be of No. 16 wire. The jig-screen surface required for each size made depends on the may

Jan 1, 1890

By Wilbur Jurden

THE writer's first experience with a nonferrous reduction plant of great magnitude was at the Washoe reduction works of Anaconda some 35 years ago. Here was a plant which had been planned with remarkable skill and foresight considering the time and the state of development of copper-plant practice in the year 1902. The designer utilized topography to fullest extent to provide proper sequence of operations and, what is most remarkable, to leave adequate space for future developments, most of which at that time were unknown. However, the practice then was to locate the various units of the reduction works at the most advantageous points of the existing terrain with little regard for tramming or other auxiliaries and then connect these various units by the essential trackage, conveyor systems, piping, etc., as the need developed. This occasionally led to undesirable track arrangements, sharp curves, and steep grades, especially when it became necessary to extend various portions of the plant. Conveyor systems also became rather complicated, running as they did at various angles, and such items as piping and electrical distribution were often found to be in the wrong place, entirely inadequate in size, or awkwardly arranged for any kind of extension. This condition was not peculiar to Anaconda, for all copper plants at that time were built in the same manner and it was the constant association with these difficulties which, in the year 1925, influenced the layout of the Andes Copper Mining Co. plant. In that plant all trackage was laid out straight and level, all conveyors at right angles to each other with minimum length and number of transfers. All buildings were placed parallel and the main structures were complete for all purposes so that auxiliary buildings and dog houses would not be added later. Piping and electrical work was provided for in the original layout and carefully designed to avoid additions and alterations, and careful study given to every movement of material throughout the entire plant so that it would be accomplished with the least possible effort. Naturally it was hardly expected to attain all these objectives perfectly but our efforts did succeed in creating a plant which was unique and outstanding for its time-1927. It was also most gratifying to find that these design principles contributed to considerable savings starting right in the drafting room, carrying through the construction and ultimately yielding savings in operations and manpower. Not only that, but such a plant gives the observer an impression of symmetry and order, is more attractive to the workmen, and unquestionably eliminates many accident hazards. However, the Andes plant buildings were fitted to the existing terrain instead of having terrain created to fit the buildings-an item which we found advantageous to correct on the next large plant. At Morenci in 1939, all of the desirable features of the Andes plant such as parallel buildings, etc., were incorporated; but we went one step further-power shovels were brought in to make the terrain fit the reduction works. The result at Morenci is well-known and needs no elaboration here, but the success achieved by the design methods used for this and previous plants naturally influenced and guided the layout of the Chuquicamata sulphide plant which is the largest yet conceived. Chuquicamata Plant Design At Chuquicamata several factors not encountered previously complicated the problem to a great extent. The most desirable location for the smelter would allow smelter gases to blow directly into the open-pit mine already producing 60,000 tons of oxide ore per day and employing 1550 men. This, of course, would be a serious condition and, therefore, we were forced to move the smelter to a less desirable location but followed our previous experience at Morenci and made the terrain fit the job. The most difficult problem, however, was the provision for receiving various types of ore both by rail and conveyor. These consisted of: 1-Sulphide-bearing residue from the stockpile from which oxide copper had previously been leached. 2-Sulphide-bearing residue coming direct from the leaching vats. 3-Sulphide ore crushed at the existing crushing plants and hauled to the concentrator in cars. 4-Sulphide ore from the new crushing plant adjacent to the concentrator. 5-Sulphide ore obtained

Jan 1, 1952

By James Pollock

The possibility of colloidal deposition of cinnabar has been neglected. In opalite deposits cinnabar exists in particles within or near the colloidal size range. Colloidal processes have been admitted to be operative in hot springs and low-temperature deposits similar to most cinnabar deposits. Mercuric sulphide sols are stable to elevated temperature and pressure, and in nature probably are chiefly affected by the electrolytes in solution, dilution of colloid, and presence of protective colloids as silica. The stability of mercuric sulphide sols to electrolyte is measured, and shown to be greatly increased by dilution and by the protective action of silica. Mercuric sulphide sols follow the Schulze-Hardy valency rule, therefore the precipitating power of complex mixtures of electrolytes can be computed roughly. The stability of mercuric sulphide sols is shown to be greater than the equivalent precipitating power of the electrolytes in a hot spring depositing mercuric sulphide. It is concluded that finely divided or earthy types of cinnabar are colloidally deposited. Possibility of Collodial Deposition While colloidal solution has been suggested as a means of transport for a number of minerals, such as the sulphides of antimony, arsenic, and iron, it has been neglected in connection with mercury. This is surprising because there exists positive evidence that cinnabar is present in certain deposits in particles of colloidal or near colloidal size. Colloidal transport could result from either the rapid dilution or neutralization of alkaline sulphide solution bearing mercury coming in contact with deep ground waters, or from colloidal solution near the original source and subsequent flow to the point of deposition unchanged. That the dilution of a mercuric alkaline sulphide solution will precipitate mercury sulphide in colloidal form has been demonstrated a number of times and is easily confirmed. The dilution hydrolyzes the alkaline sulphide Na2S to the corresponding hydroxide and hydrosulphide NaOH and NaHS, and the diminution of the concentration of alkaline sulphide reduces the solubility. It is not the contention of this writer that colloidal deposition is the mode of transport of mercuric sulphide in all mercury deposits, but that the stability of a mercuric sulphide sol, as demonstrated below, in waters that are similar to those that have deposited mercuric sulphide necessitates consideration of this possibility in many deposits, especially those of the hot-spring and so-called opalite type. Evidence of Colloidal Deposition Ross1 has shown that most deposits of quicksilver are formed at low temperatures and pressures, and probably by solutions that have relatively simple chemical compositions. In most cases the solutions are probably similar to those observed in hot springs, and in two instances—at Steamboat Springs, Nevada, and Sulphur Bank, California—hot springs have been reported by Becker as actually depositing cinnabar.2 Opalite deposits were believed by early investigators to be surface phenomena

Jan 1, 1949

By James Pollock

The possibility of colloidal deposition of cinnabar has been neglected. In opalite deposits cinnabar exists in particles within or near the colloidal size range. Colloidal processes have been admitted to be operative in hot springs and low-temperature deposits similar to most cinnabar deposits. Mercuric sulphide sols are stable to elevated temperature and pressure, and in nature probably are chiefly affected by the electrolytes in solution, dilution of colloid, and presence of protective colloids as silica. The stability of mercuric sulphide sols to electrolyte is measured, and shown to be greatly increased by dilution and by the protective action of silica. Mercuric sulphide sols follow the Schulze-Hardy valency rule, therefore the precipitating power of complex mixtures of electrolytes can be computed roughly. The stability of mercuric sulphide sols is shown to be greater than the equivalent precipitating power of the electrolytes in a hot spring depositing mercuric sulphide. It is concluded that finely divided or earthy types of cinnabar are colloidally deposited. Possibility of Collodial Deposition While colloidal solution has been suggested as a means of transport for a number of minerals, such as the sulphides of antimony, arsenic, and iron, it has been neglected in connection with mercury. This is surprising because there exists positive evidence that cinnabar is present in certain deposits in particles of colloidal or near colloidal size. Colloidal transport could result from either the rapid dilution or neutralization of alkaline sulphide solution bearing mercury coming in contact with deep ground waters, or from colloidal solution near the original source and subsequent flow to the point of deposition unchanged. That the dilution of a mercuric alkaline sulphide solution will precipitate mercury sulphide in colloidal form has been demonstrated a number of times and is easily confirmed. The dilution hydrolyzes the alkaline sulphide Na2S to the corresponding hydroxide and hydrosulphide NaOH and NaHS, and the diminution of the concentration of alkaline sulphide reduces the solubility. It is not the contention of this writer that colloidal deposition is the mode of transport of mercuric sulphide in all mercury deposits, but that the stability of a mercuric sulphide sol, as demonstrated below, in waters that are similar to those that have deposited mercuric sulphide necessitates consideration of this possibility in many deposits, especially those of the hot-spring and so-called opalite type. Evidence of Colloidal Deposition Ross1 has shown that most deposits of quicksilver are formed at low temperatures and pressures, and probably by solutions that have relatively simple chemical compositions. In most cases the solutions are probably similar to those observed in hot springs, and in two instances—at Steamboat Springs, Nevada, and Sulphur Bank, California—hot springs have been reported by Becker as actually depositing cinnabar.2 Opalite deposits were believed by early investigators to be surface phenomena

Jan 1, 1949

The Manufacturer's Viewpoint A prominent manufacturer of mining 'machinery not long ago expressed himself as being confident that he was securing the best kind of publicity for his product through the advertising pages of the monthly Bulletin of the American Institute of Mining Engineers. Such an expression coming from such a man is highly gratifying; yet it is justifiable when the high quality of reader and subscriber is taken into consideration. In fact, the majority of those using our advertising pages feel the same. It is to be regretted, of course, that others catering to our field do not realize the means at their disposal for presenting the points of interest of their product to the mining man. The question has been asked, " Do your members read their Bulletin?" They not only read the editorial pages, but they "admit being up-to-date enough to peruse the advertising section to "see what is new." The next question the prospective advertiser asks is, " Will the Bulletin bring inquiries?" The answer to this question holds good for any publication having as subscribers those who have purchasing or recommending power-yes, if the article advertised is not a stock one, that has been before the public for any length of time. To secure inquiries on, say, a standard centrifugal pump or any other standard product, the features of which are well known, is a most difficult proposition. Yet, of course, some inquiries are secured, but mostly from those having use for the catalogue or trade literature for reference purposes. It is safe to say that the traceable returns from advertising in trade publications hardly, if at all, pay for the advertising. The real returns are intangible, and result from the constant publicity, and keeping ?everlastingly at it." Who can say what subconscious effect is taking place when an advertisement is "glanced at," to say nothing of the effect produced when the copy is attractive and interests the reader. Time after time it has been proved that sales have been secured as a result of an advertisement, yet no inquiry had been made directly traceable to advertising.

Jan 8, 1915

By F. F. McINTOSH

STEEL is a general name applied to the alloys of iron and carbon. These alloys always contain , other elements such as manganese, silicon, sulfur, and phosphorus. Manganese and silicon are usually considered to be alloying elements. Sulfur and phosphorus are regarded as impurities. Tradition has damned them both and, in addition to classifying them as impurities, has established the general impression that many of the ills of steels are the result of the presence of one or both of these elements. Metallurgists are inclined to question the soundness of this tradition. The fact that one blast-furnace plant is devoted entirely to the production of ferro-phosphorus which is used to rephosphorize basic open-hearth steel, and that sulfur is added to many heats of steel, indicates that these so- called impurities might also be classed as alloying elements, and that the tradition which damns them may not be altogether fair and well founded. A critical search through the technical literature on the effect of phosphorus on steel will disclose many references to its harmful effect. Most of these are general in character, but there has been a strong tendency to accept this traditional belief in the harmful effect of the element.

Jan 1, 1926

By J. W. Stewart

The aim of this paper is to point out the various ways in which design is taught in standard four-year mining engineering curricula in American colleges and universities; to discuss the reasons apparently justifying the great diversity of procedure that exists along this line; and to indicate possible solutions to the difficulties now attending the teaching of design. A study was made of typical four-year mining engineering curricula in 15 colleges and universities of the United States (Table I). Great diversity in content of the various design courses, if taught as described, became apparent immediately. It appeared that it might be both interesting and instructive if the cause for this colorful variety could be found. Was the cause local mining conditions, departmental individuality, or actual necessity? Study of the school catalogues revealed that the various design courses could be classified into two fairly distinct types; namely, (I) those dealing with mine equipment or structures, and (2) those dealing with underground layout of mine workings. It seemed reasonable to label the first type of course "mining design" and the second type "mine design." Some such distinction must have been in the minds of mining educators, for we find both names (i.e., mine design and mining design) used to designate the design courses included in the various mining curricula Unhappily, the name and the apparent content of such courses do not, in all instances, conform to the classification made here, although in most instances such conformation does obtain (Table I). It is possible that in the exceptional case the method of teaching a design course, and consequently the content of it, may have been changed at some time without change in the name of the course. Apparently only 3 of the 15 schools made an effort to cover both types of design in their curricula (Table I). Two other schools did not list or describe any course of study that could with certainty be taken as a design course. Of the remaining 10 schools, 9 gave a mining-design type of course and one gave a strictly mine-design type. Obviously, the preponderance of design courses afforded are of the mining-design type. Why? To answer this question, it is necessary to make a study of the prerequisites for the two types of design courses taught. In all schools the design courses were taught in the senior year; in eight, design was taught throughout both semesters; in two, it was taught during the first semester only; and in three it was taught during the second semester only. Consequently, excepting the last three cases noted, it is obvious that all prerequisites for a design course should be completed by the end of the junior year PREREQUISITES What are the probable prerequisites for the different kinds of design courses as they appear to be taught? Let us take first the case of the mine-design type of course, having to do with layout of underground workings. Here it would seem that logical

Jan 1, 1943

By J. W. Stewart

The aim of this paper is to point out the various ways in which design is taught in standard four-year mining engineering curricula in American colleges and universities; to discuss the reasons apparently justifying the great diversity of procedure that exists along this line; and to indicate possible solutions to the difficulties now attending the teaching of design. A study was made of typical four-year mining engineering curricula in 15 colleges and universities of the United States (Table I). Great diversity in content of the various design courses, if taught as described, became apparent immediately. It appeared that it might be both interesting and instructive if the cause for this colorful variety could be found. Was the cause local mining conditions, departmental individuality, or actual necessity? Study of the school catalogues revealed that the various design courses could be classified into two fairly distinct types; namely, (I) those dealing with mine equipment or structures, and (2) those dealing with underground layout of mine workings. It seemed reasonable to label the first type of course "mining design" and the second type "mine design." Some such distinction must have been in the minds of mining educators, for we find both names (i.e., mine design and mining design) used to designate the design courses included in the various mining curricula Unhappily, the name and the apparent content of such courses do not, in all instances, conform to the classification made here, although in most instances such conformation does obtain (Table I). It is possible that in the exceptional case the method of teaching a design course, and consequently the content of it, may have been changed at some time without change in the name of the course. Apparently only 3 of the 15 schools made an effort to cover both types of design in their curricula (Table I). Two other schools did not list or describe any course of study that could with certainty be taken as a design course. Of the remaining 10 schools, 9 gave a mining-design type of course and one gave a strictly mine-design type. Obviously, the preponderance of design courses afforded are of the mining-design type. Why? To answer this question, it is necessary to make a study of the prerequisites for the two types of design courses taught. In all schools the design courses were taught in the senior year; in eight, design was taught throughout both semesters; in two, it was taught during the first semester only; and in three it was taught during the second semester only. Consequently, excepting the last three cases noted, it is obvious that all prerequisites for a design course should be completed by the end of the junior year PREREQUISITES What are the probable prerequisites for the different kinds of design courses as they appear to be taught? Let us take first the case of the mine-design type of course, having to do with layout of underground workings. Here it would seem that logical

Jan 1, 1943