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Council and Standing Committees, 1979-1980 President: D. A. Viljoen. Senior Vice-President: Dr P. R. Jochens. Junior Vice-President: G. Y. Nisbet. Honorary Treasurer: Dr D. G. Krige. Immediate Past President: Dr M. G. Atmore. Members of Council: J. D. Austin, A. N. Brown, J. A. Cruise, C. E. Fivaz, J. S. Freer, P. N. Harris, H. E. James, Dr R. P. King, Prof. F. Q. P. Leiding, Dr B. K. Love¬day, D. G. Malan, C. S. Macphail, J. C. Mostert, H. G. M. Rose, G. C. Thompson, R. A. von Maltitz, Dr H. Wagner. Past Presidents Serving on Council: R. J. Adamson, H. Britten, J. K. E. Douglas, Prof. D. D. Howat, Dr J. P. Hugo, D. G. Maxwell, Prof. R. P. Plowman, Dr R. E. Robinson, Dr M. D. G. Salamon, P. W. J. van Rensburg, P. A. von Wielligh. Chairman, Witbank-Middelburg Branch: R. B. Smith. Chairman, Orange Free State-Klerksdorp Branch: W. C. Mather. Materials Engineering Division, Chairman: Dr J. P. Hugo. Secretary: G. Pienaar. Standing Committee Chairmen: Membership, G. Y. Nisbet; Technical Programme Metallurgy, H. E. James, (Prof. R. P. King) ; Technical Programme Mining, H. G. M. Rose; Vacation School Metallurgy, J. C. Mos¬tert; Vacation School Mining, J. D. Austin; Awards, Dr M. G. Atmore ; Excursions, A. N. Brown ; Adjudications, Dr M. G. Atmore ; Constitution, Rules, and Policy, Dr M. G. Atmore ; Monograph Series, Dr M. G. Atmore ; Training and Career Guidance, P. A. von Wielligh (D. G. Malan) ; National Phoenix Committee, Dr R. E. Robin¬son; 1982 Council of Mining and Metallurgical Congress, Dr M. G. Atmore ; Mines and Works, Dr M. G. Atmore.

Jan 1, 1980

By S. Gan, E. van Niekerk, L. Birrell, D. Robbertze, L. Ncubi, B. Zhao

Quality assurance and quality control (or QAQC) plays a key role in safeguarding the level of confidence of the data generated during mineral exploration and mine development, and is also part of the reporting code requirements for resource estimation and reporting, as well as mining investment. Implementation of good policies and working protocols in quality management will result in the generation of reliable information, which is critical for decision-making on the future of the mining project. The use of certified reference materials, i.e., standard, blank, and duplicate samples, proves effective and efficient for ensuring the level of data confidence in terms of precision, accuracy, and sample contamination. This is well demonstrated by the practice of QC in the exploration programme for the chrysotile tailings storage facilities of Havelock Mine, using 1254 samples from 53 drill-holes. Different statistical tools were applied to analyse the assay results from these samples. The outcome substantiates that the QC practice established during the Havelock exploration project is aligned to best practice guidelines in the industry. The resource delineated indicates that the tailings material at Havelock could potentially become a significant source of supply to the global magnesium market.

Jul 2, 2022

By P. R. Jamisch

The limitations of gold-mine evaluation by P. R. JANISCH, B.Sc. (Sur.) (Natal) (Visitor) Inherent uncertainty in the choice of parameter values places theoretical and practical limitations on the interpretation of a gold-mine valuation that are not necessarily removed by comparison of two valuations on the same assumptions. These limitations arise mainly in the estimates made of cost inflation and gold-price escalation, and lead to inconsistencies in the 'league table' method of investment analysis. The choice of discount rate is also critical in many cases. An approach to the overall problem that takes these limitations into account is suggested.

Jan 6, 1976

By M. J. Kanda

"The design of rock slopes in the planning and operation of open pit mines and for road and rail cuttings requires the evaluation of their stability. This is commonly done using two well-established methods – limit equilibrium and numerical modelling. The research described in this paper compares the outputs of analyses using these two methods with regard to factor of safety and probability of failure, taking into account technical factors associated with each method and other factors such as material parameters and their variabilities. Results show that technical factors such as number of slices and slip circles, number and type of finite elements, and the stress reduction factor can all affect the results of stability analyses. Factors not taken into account in limit equilibrium analyses, such as dilation, in situ stress, and locked-in stresses can affect the outputs significantly. The research has focused particularly on the predicted location of the failure surface, the resulting volume of failure and, most significantly dependent on this volume, the predicted risk associated with slope failure. The results presented show that there is good agreement between the outputs of the two methods regarding factor of safety and probability of failure. However, the same is not the case with regard to volume of failure and hence risk, which can be very dependent on the methods of analysis and their input parameters. The research is not exhaustive, and there are many other factors that could affect the results of slope stability analyses that were not investigated. Some such factors are mentioned in the paper.IntroductionThe design of rock slopes in the planning and operation of open pit mines and for road and rail cuttings requires the evaluation of their stability. The traditional method of stability analysis used limit equilibrium (LE) methods, and this approach continues to be used. Numerical modelling (NM) packages are now also commonly used in slope stability analyses. The outputs from these analyses provide the factor of safety (FOS) and probability of failure (POF) of the slope. Since the capabilities of the two approaches are different, there can be some variations in FOS and POF outputs and in the predicted location of the failure surface. These variations can affect the predicted volume of failure, and this could in turn have a significant effect on the risk associated with the potential failure (Read and Stacey, 2009). Researchers such as Chiwaye and Stacey (2010) have found that LE analyses underestimate the predicted failure volume, unlike NM methods."

Jan 1, 2016

The 90th Annual General Meeting of The South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy was held at Kelvin House, Johannesburg, on 19th August, 1987. Dr H. Wagner (President) was in the Chair and declared the meeting open at 16h00. Obituaries The President read out the names of the departed Members as follows: N.M. Airey, F.J. Kisbey-Green, Dr R.A. Pelletier, C.B. Anderson, A.R. Cator, J. van Heerden, P.J. Burman, C.C. Crosson, M. Livingstone¬Blevins, S.T. Firman, V.E. Kisbey-Green, and A.L. Corna. All stood and observed a moment of silence as a mark of respect. Minutes The minutes of the 89th Meeting of the SAIMM, which was held on 20th of August, 1986, were confirmed.

Jan 1, 1987

By A. N. Brown

The Hendrik van der Bijl Memorial Lecture is arranged annually under the auspices of the Pretoria Engineers Liaison Committee. This is a multidisciplinary Committee with representatives from eleven societies and associations, and serves the interests of engineers resident in the Pretoria area. Coal preparation The Japanese Organizing Committee of the 11th International Coal Preparation Congress is now busy making the necessary arrangements for the Congress, which is to be held in Tokyo from 22nd to 26th October, 1990.

Jan 1, 1989

By M. Åstrand, M. Johansson

"Advanced planning and automation are increasingly important in modern mines. Sophisticated methods for long-term mine planning are often used, and the advent of autonomous machines makes the actual operation more predictable. However, the interface between these two timescales, i.e. the scheduling of the mobile production fleet, often limits the ability to operate mines at maximum profitability. We show how scheduling the production fleet in an underground mine can be modelled as a flow shop. A flow shop is a general abstract process formulation that captures the key properties of a scheduling problem without going into specific details. Thus, the flow shop enables mine scheduling to reap the benefits of scheduling research from other industries. We review recent results from the mining community and the flow shop community, and introduce scheduling methods used in these two fields. This work aims at providing value to researchers from the mining community who want to leverage their skill set, as well as to theoretical researchers by presenting the mining process as a potential application area. Lastly, we discuss the results, and outline some future challenges and opportunities facing the industry. IntroductionThe margins in underground mining are constantly under pressure since costs increase as the mine becomes deeper. One major component influencing the operational performance, and thus the profitability of an underground mine, is how the mobile machinery and staff are coordinated. Today, the coordination of the underground fleet, i.e. scheduling of the machines, is mostly done manually, with methods that are stretched to their limit and with no guarantees on performance. According to a survey of more than 200 high-level executives in mining companies around the world (Mincom, 2011), the top challenge for modern mines is to maximize production effectiveness, rather than improving the reliability of individual items of equipment. This highlights the importance of coordination on a system level.The effectiveness of mine production can be increased by introducing supportive algorithms in the scheduling process. These algorithms enable mines to construct optimized schedules with respect to custom metrics. Additionally, manual scheduling is a tedious and error-prone task where the performance is heavily dependent on the scheduler. To reduce the staff dependency, supportive algorithms can help to achieve more uniform outcomes, resulting in a more predictable process. In turn, this increases the transparency of the mining process through the entire production chain. It is worth noting that automatic scheduling has proved beneficial in many other industries, such as chemicals and metals (Floudas and Lin, 2004; Tang et al., 2001)."

Dec 1, 2018

By J. P. Gouvea

Back-analysis of two mining-induced tremors in 2011 was used to determine a modelling criterion for the entire Klerksdorp Goldfield (i.e., Vaal Reefs region). At that time, most mining operations in the region were owned by AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) and shared many geotechnical similarities. By 2018 AGA had sold off all its Klerksdorp operations to different mining companies, which continued applying the 2011 modelling criterion. As mining activities became more remote, scattered, and isolated, the extraction of isolated blocks of ground and remnants became increasingly necessary. However, the inherited criterion allowed only minimal or no mining activities at these areas. Keeping in mind that safety is the overriding consideration, an innovative numerical modelling approach, which includes the application of peak particle velocity designs, was developed to provide practitioners in the Klerksdorp Goldfield with a suitable criterion to justifiably and safely mine isolated blocks of ground and remnants. This would not always be possible if a conformist approach was used.

Mar 14, 2024

By L. Morgan, M. Le Roux, Q. P. Campbell

Dry coal processing is becoming increasingly favoured as a fine coal beneficiation technique. The decline in suitable good-quality coal, as well as the ongoing decrease in usable process water, makes dry beneficiation of the fine coal fraction even more crucial. Dry fine coal beneficiation is a relatively young process with most of the methods still in the developmental phase. Additionally, many of the dry processing options available are better suited for coarser (+6 mm) and easy-to-beneficiate coal. Air winnowing for fine particles has been established in both agricultural and pharmaceutical industries, which indicates that the method can be used to separate smaller particles on a density basis and therefore, may prove effective in the coal industry as well. A proof of concept study was conducted using both computer-based simulations (which do not form part of this paper) and physical experiments. The initial winnowing unit consisted of a closed box with a horizontal air stream flowing through the top section. Coal particles were injected into the air stream and displaced horizontally across a distance (x), depending on the particle size and density, thus actuating a separation based on these two parameters. For this study particle sizes of 6, 4 and 2 mm were used all with a density ranging from 1200 kg·m-3 to 2000 kg·m-3. The simulation in Star CCM+ confirmed the findings of the mathematic behavioural model and provided a virtual representation of the separation using streamlines and particle tracks. The coal tests prove that size separation can be achieved at an airflow velocity of 21 m·s-1 and the density cut-point can also be predicted by using the prediction matrices constructed as part of this study. The results show efficiency values (EPM) of 0.11 and 0.09 at density cut-points of 1400 kg·m-3 and 1500 kg·m-3 respectively. The data obtained from the study indicates that air winnowing can be used to separate fine coal particles based on both size and density. However, in order to achieve an efficient density separation, a narrow size range is required. With some improvements to the model, simulation, method and design, the separation efficiency can also be improved. The next phase of testing will include the upscaling of the process to a demonstration plant, optimising the separation unit and testing the method on different qualities of coal. Keywords: Dry processing, fine coal, winnowing, simulation, tracers, demonstration plant

Jan 1, 2020

The Annual General Meeting of the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy was held in Kelvin House on Wednesday, 25th August, 1976. Dr R. E. Robinson, (President) was in the chair, and declared the meeting open at 16h00. Obituaries The president: It is my sad duty to announce the death of the following members of the Institute : P. A. Creewell, Life Fellow; A. S. Davis, J. S. Hay, P. O. Large, N. McCaskell, and H. G. M. McKerrow, Life Members; C. L. Bererge, Fellow; T. Bulloch, G. Douglas, R. W. Forrester, and C. G. P. Sack, Members; P. R. Garcia, W. A. Naude, and J. P. Slager, Associates. As a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased and in sympathy with the bereaved, I ask you to rise and observe a few moments' silence. Minutes The President: May we confirm the minutes of the General Meeting held on March 17th, 1976, as published in the June issue of the Journal? Agreed. Welcome The President: It is my pleasant duty to welcome a number of guests and distinguished visitors this evening. First, I would like to welcome Mr R. Plumbridge, the President of the Chamber of Mines, and Mrs Plumbridge. We have had very close co-operation with the Chamber of Mines, and it is particularly gratifying that Mr Plumbridge has had time to be with us this evening in spite of very heavy engagements. Ook 'n spesiale woord van verwelkomirg aar mrr. N. Orsmord, die Staatsmyringerieur, en mev. Orsmord. Ors wil hierdie geleertheid gebruik om mrr. Orsmord geluk to wens met sy aarstellirg as die Staatsmyrirgerieur en die hoop uitspreek dat dit baie jare van samewerkirg met hierdie Irstituut sal beteker. We also welcome guests who, in one way or another, have been able to attend most of our Annual General Meetings, the Honourable I. B. Dillon, the Minister of Mines of Rhodesia, and Mrs Dillon. Once again we welcome them most heartily to our Annual Meeting. I would also like to welcome the representatives of many of our sister institutions : the Honorary Treasurer of the AS & TS, Mr D. G. Maxwell; the President of the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Mr A. R. Adams; the Vice-President of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers, Mr K. A. H. Adams, and Mrs Adams; the President of the Institute of Certificated Mechanical and Electrical Engineer s, Mr Martin and Mrs Martin; a member of the Executive of the South African Institute of Civil Engineers, Professor G. Bright ; the President of the South African Chemical Institute, Mr Vic Shuller, and Mrs Shuller; the President of the Institute of Welding, Professor F. P. A. Robinson, and Mrs Robinson; the President of SACPE, Mr M. R. Gericke ; the President of the Institution of Metallurgists, South African Branch, Mr D. R. Allen; the President of FSPE, Dr P. J. D. Lloyd, and Mrs Lloyd ; Mr A. J. H. Pole of the Association of Mine Managers, and Mrs Pole; and Mr M. D. Hoskin of the South African Institute of Foundrymen. A special word of welcome to Mr G. C. Young of our Orange Free State Branch, and Mrs Young ; and to Mr E. J. Jackson of our Witbank/Middelburg Branch. We have great pleasure in welcoming Dr F. M. Naude, the Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister, and Dr W. C. J. van Rensburg, Technical Director of the Minerals Bureau. The latter is a new organization, and we hope their attendance here this afternoon forecasts a long period of co-operation between the Minerals Bureau and this Institute. Ook wil ek hartlik hier verwelkom die Rektor van Die Randse Afrikaanse Universiteit, professor G. van N. Viljoen. Ors het baie noue samewerking met die Universiteit gekry, en ek wil ook bier verwelkom die twee verteenwoordigers van die Geologiese-afdeling en die Chemie-afdeling, naamlik, dr C. Roering en professor G. W. Holzapfel. Last, but by no means least, a word of welcome to a very old friend, Mr Eric Boden, the Manager of AS & TS. To all our guests, a very hearty welcome to this our Annual General Meeting. Membership The President: It is required by our Constitution that I announce the names of a number of candidates who have been elected to various grades of membership. The list is a very long one, and I suggest that we simply record that these names will be published in the Journal. Any one who wishes to comment on these members should do so in writing to our Secretary. Agreed. Fellows: G. Paterson, P. H. Adler, F. W. G. Schoning, J. P. de Villiers, F. I. de Waal, J. R. H. Shaw. Members: C. J. Slavin, P. J. Perkins, R. J. I. Butler, A. M. Hattingh, C. E. Alvey, J. A. Engelbrecht, P. L. Gouws, J. P. Martin, J. F. Taylor, K. A. G. Blendulf, A. R. Gibb, W. E. Smith. Associate Members: D. R. Broderick, D. F. Cilliers, D. N. Stuart, P. Kraus, B. G. Pinder. Associates: D. E. Gibbon, D. F. Jacobs, R. F. W. Swanepoel, R. D. H. Bebb, H. H. Vernall, R. D. Gibson, J. P. van Wyk. Graduates : A. N. Morris, D. J. Payne, G. S. Worthington, A. S. Dennison, A. R. Godfrey, N. Holloway, W. J. Rankin, G. S. Lyndon, R. J. van Proctor, J. J. Versluis, G. M. Miller. Students: B. J. Rabie, G. D. Webber, W. L. Blair, I. D. Mathews, K. McVey, S. W. Beer, R. W. J. Bentley,

Jan 10, 1976

By A. Ennen, R. Wagner, B. Orberger, J. -M. Milazzo, N. Uhlmann, J. Banchet, J. Lucic, N. Wörlein, M. Firsching, J. L. Dubos, C. Bauer

The residues from mining and processing ores can often be considered as secondary raw materials. However, the material is only available in the form of fine particles (< 3 mm). In order to recycle these wastes, it is necessary to agglomerate it for transportation prior to reprocessing. The resulting agglomerates need to mechanically resist the stress of transportation and loading into the furnace. X-ray computed tomography (CT) is an established method for characterisation of internal structures in material science. This non-destructive technique can provide information on size and distribution of particles and grains. However, the information is not limited to the size, but also can yield structural features like orientation and position of cracks and fractures, which are important features indicating potential for deteriorating the agglomerates. Furthermore, deduced features such as contact conditions of inclusions or boundary surfaces can also be calculated. We studied binder-free tablets of manganese-oxyhydroxide, bentonite, kaolinite and slag powder using micro-CT. Inclusions of highly absorbing particles were identified using a watershed transformation with automatic segmentation by Otsu thresholding. Subsequently, the resulting data was analysed regarding their volume percentage, distribution in size and location within the sample. For the slag agglomerates, the volume fraction of iron could be determined. Furthermore, visible cracks were investigated with the goal to determine the long-term durability. It was shown that the data provided by micro-CT is reliable and helpful for the characterisation of industrial waste agglomerates. Keywords: X-ray, computed tomography, micro-CT, agglomerates, manganese fines, slags, kaolinite, bentonite

Jan 1, 2020

By Y. Chen, D. He, J. H. Potgieter

The demand for rare earth elements (REE) is increasing rapidly owing to the emergence of new cleanenergy and defense-related technologies. China’s dominates the world production of REE. In this paper, we review the ore characteristics of four typical REE deposits in China and discuss the conventional beneficiation techniques, including gravity and magnetic separation, flotation, and hydrometallurgical processing of these ores. Some of the latest laboratory findings and industrial applications, as well as the development of novel reagents for REE processing in China are presented. The REE beneficiation technologies developed and employed in China could constitute a good case study for many other emerging projects being explored around the world.

Mar 2, 2022

By G. C. Thompson

&apos;Increased underground extraction of coal&apos; was the theme selected for the 1981 mining vacation school, which was held at the University of the Witwatersrand in January and February. The response of the industry to the invitation to register was so good that three separate schools of one week each were arranged between 26th January and 13th February. In terms of the total number of delegates, some 225 actually attending, the school can be described as the most successful ever organized by the Institute.

Jan 1, 1981

By H. Laitala, M. Lampi

Metso Outotec has developed a wide range of solvent-extraction technologies over decades and has introduced Metso Outotec VSF®X solvent-extraction plant. Standardized and modularized, Metso Outotec VSFX Plant provides a novel way to design, manufacture, transport, install, operate, and maintain solvent-extraction plants far better than in the past with highly sustainable and safe methods. For the customer, this means fast-track projects with savings in means of time, costs, quality, and operation. Sicomines and Metso Outotec have together implemented and commissioned a modern and efficient copper solvent-extraction plant. Plant commissioning and ramp up of the plant were fast and the plant is now operating efficiently. This paper presents Sicomines’ VSFX copper solvent-extraction project and gives a sight into operating figures for the plant.

Jan 1, 2023

By P. L. Ngwenyama, I. Maubane

Soundless chemical demolition agents (SCDAs) are proving to be the future of sustainable and environmental-friendly mining. These expansive chemicals become critical when there is a need to break rock close to communities, environmentally sensitive areas, and critical structures and infrastructure. Unlike explosives, the SCDAs do not generate air-blast, ground vibrations, flyrock, noise, dust, and noxious fumes, which can negatively affect the environment, surrounding communities, sensitive areas, and critical structures and infrastructure. Over the years, several types of SCDA products have been used successfully in the civil and construction industries for the demolition of old and dilapidated buildings near vibrations and environmentally sensitive areas. They have also been used to fragment boulders in the mining and construction industries. However, to date, no study has investigated the applications of soundless chemical demolition on a large-scale in opencast mines. Therefore, this study evaluated whether soundless chemical demolition can break large volumes of in situ rock. This was done by conducting five trials using Nex-Pand soundless chemical demolition agents in four different surface mining sites. Trial 1 was unsuccessful as it was unable to break the rock due to the large confinement between the drilled holes and the use of a hole diameter that was 182% larger than recommended. Trial 2 was a success as it was able to fracture the rock with a crack width that reached 110 mm after 72 hours. Trial 3 generated cracks at the biggest hole diameter of 102 mm. The cracks developed and ceased to increase after 96 hours at a crack width of 100 mm. Trial 4 achieved the smallest crack width due to a very competent rock compared to the other sites. Trial 5 generated cracks at a slower rate than other trials because of the use of Nex-Pand powder at lower ambient temperatures than recommended. These trials proved that soundless chemical demolition agents can replace explosives in areas closer to sensitive infrastructure and communities. This will ultimately enable mines to unlock value and access deposits in these areas.

Jul 23, 2025

By M. B. C. Brandt

Richter magnitudes for seismic events were calibrated for use as a Local magnitude scale in the West Rand (WR), Far West Rand (FWR), and Klerksdorp–Orkney–Stilfontein–Hartebeesfontein (KOSH) gold mining areas. Richter magnitudes are currently calculated from seismograms recorded by local surface cluster networks using tabulated calibration values for Southern California, published in 1958. The Richter (1958) model is incorrect for distances of less than 30 km and should be applied only to crustal earthquakes in regions with similar attenuation properties to those of Southern California. When compared to the South African National Seismograph Network (SANSN), the cluster networks, on average, overestimate seismic event magnitudes by approximately 0.1 of a magnitude unit. A calibrated Local magnitude scale was derived by means of a multiple regression analysis between the Local magnitudes reported by the SANSN and the largest zero-to-peak trace amplitudes measured on the cluster network horizontal seismograms, after modelling the attenuation of the seismic waves as these progress from the epicentre to the station position. Magnitudes reported by individual stations for the same event show a significant scatter around the average magnitude owing to the near-surface amplifications of the seismic waves at the recordings sites. Average magnitude should be estimated using as many magnitudes of individual stations as possible to ensure an accurate estimate. Larger event magnitudes should be compared with those recorded by the SANSN.

Nov 1, 2021

By R. J. Durrheim, B. Manzunzu, V. Midzi

Selecting ground motion prediction models (GMPM) is crucial in assessing seismic hazard levels in a specific region. This study investigates the influence of ground motion model (GMM) selection on seismic hazard assessment in Johannesburg, South Africa. Most seismic events affecting Johannesburg are related to mining activities and water ingress into the underground mine voids. The most seismically active regions in South Africa include areas around Klerksdorp, Welkom, and Carletonville. These regions experience a significant number of earthquakes, with mining activities being a major factor contributing to seismic events. Ten ground motion prediction equations were selected from regions of similar tectonics setting and were assessed to see if they correspond to the available local data. Six of these were also compared to the ground motions produced by the earthquake of 14 August 2014, which occurred in the Orkney area, one of the mining areas in South Africa. Sensitivity analyses were also carried out to assess the influence of ground motion prediction equations (GMPE) on the seismic hazard of Johannesburg. The results indicate that the choice of GMPM significantly affects the estimation of seismic hazard levels in Johannesburg. Different GMM can lead to varying ground shaking intensity predictions, impacting risk assessments and engineering design considerations. The findings highlight the importance of carefully selecting appropriate GMM tailored to Johannesburg’s specific geological and tectonic characteristics. Understanding how different models perform in this region is essential for accurate seismic risk mitigation strategies.

Jan 12, 2025

By K. Gharibi, A. Dehghani, S. Farrokhpay, M. Aghajanloo, M. Ostadrahimi

The effect of flotation operational parameters on froth stability and froth recovery was studied. Froth stability was measured using a special column. To determine the froth recovery, the froth height change model and froth height exponential model were used. It was found that since the interactions between the pulp and froth zones affect the time of froth formation, the exponential model is more suitable than the froth height change method for determining the froth recovery. The results showed that superficial air velocity and collector dosage have, respectively, the highest and lowest effect on the froth recovery, while froth recovery decreases sharply with increasing froth height.

Jan 1, 2021

Introducing your Council. Mr J. S. Freer, Pr. Eng., after matriculating at Michaelhouse in 1944, obtained a B.8c. degree in chemistry and biology (1948) and a B.Sc. (Hons.) in chemistry (1949) from the University of the Witwatersrand. Mr G. C. Thompson matriculated at Dale College in 1951. He then attended the University of the Witwatersrand, where he obtained a B.8c. (Min. Eng.) in 1959. Mr P. T. Fewell was born and educated in the United Kingdom. After obtaining the degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Mining) in 1958 at Sheffield University, he emigrated to South Africa. DtP. R. Jochens, Pr. Eng., has been a member of Council since 1974, serving as President in 1980-1981.

Jan 1, 1984

By G. Akdogan, I. J. Geldenhuys, Q. G. Reynolds

Efficient recovery of titanium from titaniferous magnetite ores continues to be a promising, yet unrealised opportunity, despite significant occurrences of titaniferous magnetite deposits worldwide and the existence of established industrial-scale practices. Current smelting processes only recover iron and vanadium, while the titanium is discarded in the waste slag. These slags are stockpiled and present massive environmental challenges, while still containing value as residual iron, vanadium and titanium. The complex mineralisation of these deposits does not allow for a significant opportunity to separate the titanium and magnetite minerals through normal physical upgrading processes. An upgrading process is therefore required to derive economic value. An efficient process technology could create an opportunity to unlock all three valuable commodities. South Africa’s Bushveld Complex, the largest known deposit of its kind in the world, is known for the high vanadium content but is also associated with relatively high concentrations of titaniferous magnetite. The quality of the Bushveld Complex was one of the drivers for the establishment of the Highveld Steel and Vanadium Company in the mid-1960s. The unfortunate demise of Highveld Steel and Vanadium created an opportunity to review current practices and evaluate the best available process for this complex ore in the context of the three elements of interest. Past and current processes, the nature of these deposits and the potential to recover titanium are assessed to highlight the potential of fluxless smelting of titaniferous magnetite to produce a titania-rich slag as feedstock to the pigment, titanium metal industry in conjunction with recovery of iron and vanadium. Ilmenite smelting practices are proposed as a suitable alternative to achieve the goal, namely sustainable processing. Keywords: Titaniferous magnetite, titanomagnetite, smelting, titania slags, comprehensive processing

Jan 1, 2020