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By Rodrigo Fina Ferreira, Jacek Kolacz, Luciana Gois, Neymayer Pereira Lima

The recent developments on the sensor detectors together with the higher capacity of the machines, due the high-speed computing recent advances, have made possible extending the application in the mining industry. The use of x-ray fluorescence, x-ray transmission and radiometric sensor based sorting can selectively remove gangue minerals in different size fractions for different minerals. This paper summarizes the potential application of SBS for an iron ore in three size fractions aiming to increase the %Fe after the removal of particles with main gangue minerals associated. Pilot plant tests were carried out with samples of iron ore in different size fractions and different content of hematite and gangues. The use of x-ray transmission sensor showed the possibility to increase the %Fe from about 63% to above 68% for particles below 80mm and 45mm, after the removal of low density particles. The presence of fines on the feed affected the performance of the SBS X-rays transmission machine, especially for the fine fraction feed. The mineralogical determination, carried out to know the association between hematite and gangue minerals, and the density of the particles on the feed, can be used to preview the quality of products of the x-transmission sorting process.

Oct 3, 2019

By G. F. Loughlin

Nearly 55 years have elapsed since the U. S. Geological Survey was organized. During this period the mineral industries have grown from infancy or early childhood to well developed maturity, and some mining industries appear to be declining. Decline in mining is even more conspicuous in certain districts, or even states, than in any mining industry as a whole, and discoveries or developments of important new districts have been very few in recent years. Our reserves of most metals and nonmetals are adequate for many years of normal production, subject to changes in rate of exploitation that may be caused by foreign competition and by changes in technology and market conditions; but the declining production of many districts and the scarcity of important new discoveries to compensate for them is cause for some apprehension. It is likely that future production will depend to a considerable extent on deep exploration and on the thorough examination of places in and adjoining existing districts where significant outcrops are lacking and only apparently insignificant geologic features offer encouraging clues—more so than on the discovery of entirely new districts. Even the possible discovery of new districts, which have escaped the intensive search by the nontechnical prospector, must be dependent on geologic information. There is therefore no need for argument as to the value of geology to the mining industry; and the need of continuing to advance the science. The U. S. Geological Survey's past contributions to mining geology, as expressed in its official reports and other publications, are recognized by Ransome in his historical review of mining geology in the Lindgren volume.' These contributions have helped to form the basis of modern mining geology, which has grown rapidly in the last 25 years. This growth has witnessed the organization and maintenance of geologic staffs by mining companies in several districts, and their detailed work, together with the fact that nearly all of the larger mining districts have

Jan 1, 1935

By Peter G. Chamberlain

The Bureau of Mines is conducting research to boost domestic production of manganese. Virtually no mining exists in the low grade and/or small deposits that occur in this Country. One large, low-grade manganese deposit located in westcentral Arizona--The Artillery Peak district--was extensively studied and sporadically mined during the 1940's and 1950's. Although manganese mining in the district has been long dormant, recent studies indicate that the deposits may be amenable to economical production by heap and/or in situ leaching methods. A conceptual design for an in situ leaching system features undercutting and blasting a block of ore, leaching with SO2, and extracting the manganese as a sulfate or oxide. Possible applications to other manganese deposits depend upon formation permeability and specific manganese mineralogy.

Jan 1, 1981

By Matthew T. Mowry

As the mining industry continues to hire young professionals to supplant the growing number of retirees, a well-developed engineering curriculum, coupled with practical, real-world training, can prepare mining engineering graduates to make meaningful contributions in the industry. Successful companies can be measured not only by their reserve base and annual production but also by their retention of mining engineering graduates with zero to five years of operational experience. My personal experience in the industry during the last five years has been varied and rewarding. The knowledge and experience I have gained have taught me valuable lessons that prepared me for my current role.

Nov 1, 2013

By E. Benguerel, G. Monteith, L. Centomo, S. Pelletier

In early 2007, it became apparent that with changing concentrate feeds, the magnesium (Mg) load projected for CEZinc starting in 2009 and beyond would quadruple and overwhelm the current Mg process bleed capacity. A project was started, following design for six sigma (DFSS) standards, to select both the optimal process and to evaluate its target capacity for the Mg bleed circuit. The economic and process risks of under or over-designing while Mg reduction efforts were underway at the mines also needed to be evaluated. This paper describes the project methodology, the impact on the plant, and some potential optimizations for CEZinc's basic zinc sulphate (BZS) Mg bleed process.

Jan 1, 2008

By J. H. E. Jeffes, C. Diaz

The heat balance and chemical equilibria involved in the production of blister copper from a chalcopyrite concentrate in a single operation are examined. It appears that two stages—one oxidising and one reducing—will be required. The analysis indicates that on thermal grounds the process is possible with a dry, high-grade chalcopyrite concentrate, if oxygen enrichment to about 30 per cent is used, but that copper losses in the slag will be serious and will require a secondary recovery operation. More extensive data on the activities of copper oxide in slags are required to elucidate this point more effectively

Dec 1, 1971

By E. M. Chance

HERBERT M. WILSON, Pittsburgh, Pa. (written discussion).-Permit me to endorse the author's conclusions and their form of presentation as ,being, in my judgment, the last word 'on the subject of lights for the illumination of coal mines. I also feel that the open-flame oil lamp has outlived its usefulness, and that it should go, in the interests not only of safety but of efficiency. Where an open-flame lamp can be used with safety in non-gaseous mines, the acetylene light adds materially to efficiency by its better illumination, and to safety for the numerous reasons given by Mr. Chance. The latter, however, lays chief stress on the value of the acetylene because of its non-fouling and non-obscuring effect on the atmosphere. Another important advantage over any other form of illumination is the clear, bright light projected at the point where the workman may look for danger. The better illumination materially safeguards the worker against obstacles over which he may stumble when traveling, and against dangers from falls of roof or of coal, weakness in timbering, and similar conditions. The acetylene lamp, where it may be used with safety, has advantages even over the present electric cap lamp, in that it gives a higher luminosity; and when the miner comes to learn its signals, as he will in time, just as he learns those given by the open-flame or the safety lamp, he will find that the acetylene lamp is a fair detector not only of methane but of carbon dioxide, as clearly shown by Mr. Chance. The only, serious objection, raised against the use of carbide lamps. has been recently in Pennsylvania, due to the belief of the State Mine Inspection Department that it endangered miners working on pillar work, or other places where carbon dioxide might accumulate, or where there is lack of sufficient ventilation, and because it was believed that the indications of the carbide lamp would not give the miner sufficient warning. On this point Mr. Chance has clearly shown the fallacies of the objections. I may add that for those unable to detect carbon dioxide with the acetylene lamp, the maximum of protection would be afforded by using an open oil lamp or a flame safety lamp in such places; or, because the miner might not watch his oil light, a better, protection still would be offered by a sufficient number of daily inspections of such working places by a fire boss or other official, with flame safety lamp.

Jan 4, 1917

By Jr. Pickering

Kaolin is mined from extensive sedimentary formations in the eastern Amazon River Basin of Brazil. Production began about 25 years ago from 30 meter thick beds of ultra-fine particle clay of superior viscosity along the Jari River north of the Amazon. Operated by CADAM S.A., capacity now exceeds 750,000 tonnes per year ot high glossing paper coating kaolin product. South of the Amazon on the Capim River are two new operations: Para Pigmentos S.A. and Rio Capim Caulim S.A. The purity , and large coarse plate-shaped particles of these Capim kaolins support production of superior brightness and whiteness paper coating and filling grades. Annual capacities are reported to be 150,000 to 300,000 tonnes each, with expansions planned. Most of Amazon area kaolin production is shipped to western European, Asian, and North American markets.

Jan 1, 1999

By M. Ericsson

?Rare earths ?will not be bargaining instruments?? was stated in a headline in China Daily of 29 October 2010. The Chinese government is trying to fend off the persistent accusations from Japan, the USA, and Europe that it is manipulating the supply of these so called ?critical? metals to gain political and economic advantages. The critics maintain that China has taken the rest of the world hostage by controlling 97% of the resources of rare earths. These elements are crucial in a number of high-tech applications. They are not impossible to substitute, but difficult to do so effectively. The name ?rare earth? is a misnomer, as even the least abundant is 200 times more common in the Earth?s crust than gold. They are, however, difficult to find in economic concentrations. The Chinese near-monopoly over the rare earths, together with China?s scramble for other resources in Australia, Africa, and elsewhere around the world, is seen as an example of a Chinese strategy to take control of vital metal resources. The Chinese are also accused of using unfair and sometimes illegal business practices in this fight for resources. Practices which, critics claim, put the Chinese interests above the interests of the host countries, in particular in Africa.

Jan 1, 2011

By M. F. Dunn

A handbook to provide a quick reference guide for selecting and using jet fans in a variety of conditions was prepared. The document is intended for use by front-line supervision, ventilation engineers, and mine planners. Included are discussions of jet fan characteristics, selection and use critieria, and do's and don't's for easier operation, safety, and performance. The handbook is based on research at three underground metal/nonmetal mines having cross-sectional areas of 900 to 2,000 ft2.

Jan 1, 1983

By N. B. Aughenbaugh

The People's Republic of China has 582 Gt (641 billion tons) of proven coal reserves. At present, 576.5 Mt (635.5 million tons) of coal are mined a year which makes China the third largest producer of coal in the world. Underground mining accounts for 95% of the total production. This paper will discuss the coal districts, coal types, jurisdiction of coal mining, and methods of underground mining. The article also will outline China's objectives in future planning and development of its coal reserves.

Jan 1, 1982

H. Van F. Furman, Denver, Colo. (communication to the Secretary): There are some statements in Dr. Carpenter's interesting paper which appear to require explanation, if not modification.

Jan 1, 1901

By Patrick B. Kenny

Generally speaking, it is safe to address this conference as a conclave of Engineers, Owners' Agents, Governmental Representatives, and Contractors. As a group, we have assembled here to learn of our compatriots engaged in similiar underground operations throughout the United States and the World. We are here to learn of improved methods, higher technology, and better management. Through the acquisition of this knowledge, we each hope we can improve our own particular services, products and projects. This session is dedicated to a discussion of "Costs". The most apparent reason for a discussion of costs at this level is to expose subjects affecting costs and propose methods to reduce them. From that premise a contractor can identify three areas of discussion: design considerations, contract considerations, and governmental considerations. A fourth area of consideration is an introspective view of the contractor's role in the design construct process. Unnecessary costs and risks attributable to these areas are contributing excessively to ever increasing project and system costs. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS On April 20, 1977 the Metropolitan Sanitary District of Greater Chicago accepted proposals for the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan on Contract A and Contract B. This letting called for construction of over 33 km (21 miles) of the Mainstream Tunnel bored at 9.75 m (32 ft) to 10.67 m (35 ft.) in diameter. Also included were all the appurtenant collecting and regulating structures. The proposal allowed the

Jan 1, 1979

By J Penman, N Turner, H Liu

This paper aims to present a snapshot of the risk profile for tailings storage facilities within Western Australia by comparing the spatial distribution of known facilities against common geohazards such as cyclonic activity, climate, and peak ground accelerations from earthquakes. The analysis also includes an assessment of proximity to populations at risk including towns and sensitive receptors including significant river systems and wetlands.

Jul 1, 2021

By S N. Donaldson, B L. Hollis, K Wynn, L Potts, M Evans

A real-time load-haul-dump (LHD) dispatch optimisation tool has been deployed at Panel Cave 1 and Panel Cave 2 at Newcrest’s Cadia Valley Operations. The tool, known as ORB, is the first known successful implementation of an optimisation-based, autonomous, real-time dispatch tool, custombuilt for underground mining operations. ORB can co-ordinate the optimal dispatch of LHD’s in a block cave to achieve a range of objectives while adhering to draw compliance and geotechnical constraints. It is an example of highly automated short-term interval control. This paper starts by outlining the pre-existing business planning process, detailing the simple logic that produced the daily draw order. Next, the motivations for a real-time dispatch tool are presented, drawing comparison to the limitations in existing planning processes and how these can be overcome through an optimisation-based, autonomous, real-time dispatch tool. Subsequently, the paper details the Ratio Bogging Draw Strategy, through which tonnes targets are expressed continuously on draw bells or draw points as a ratio of total cumulative cave draw. This signifies artificial planning boundaries are removed and that draw targets are linked within a cave; such that tonnes are unlocked by bogging other parts of the cave, instead of as a function of time. This creates incentive within the target mechanism for fixing and bogging struggling draw areas whilst allowing uncapped progress if all draw targets are progressing within compliance. Furthermore, the optimisation tool developed is outlined, including the data it uses and the objectives it optimises. Finally, detail on the improvements to operations the implementation of this tool has brought, and the business process change it has facilitated are presented using Newcrest’s Cadia Valley Operations as a case study.

Mar 15, 2021

By Venkata Aneesh

This paper examines the desired blast fragmentation results associated with mining fleet performance at Sidney Quarry of Pike Industries, A CRH Company by reducing cycle times and hauling less oversize material generated from the blast to the crusher to increase the overall plant throughput. We are constrained with blast patterns due to the poorly sorted and fractured seams in the quarry, which is angled at 35° NE and dipping at 80° and runs parallel to the Interstate-95 highway on the east of the quarry boundary about 600 ft, making it challenging to alter the blast patterns for optimal yield. We evaluated multiple relationships between blast patterns in conjunction with loader diggability. Results analyzed include the digging hours, fleet cycle times, and the fragment size with the optimized blast design through 3GSM software to arrive at the optimal yield to maximize the crusher throughput. Our primary objective is to focus on safety with efficient cycle times and clean floors & clean face generation for better operational efficiencies. Secondly, to optimize the crusher yield which is an integral part of quarry operation. Further, this paper provides the utilization of 3GSM blasting techniques in quarry applications with computer vision fragmentation analysis and VizaLogix, a fleet management software to analyze the cycle times sampling.

Feb 1, 2024

By Muhammad Azeem Raza, Samuel Frimpong

Underground mining environments are inherently hazardous and can lead to emergencies where effective rescue and self-escape become critical. Missouri University of Science and Technology is pioneering new technologies for effective self-escape. The rescuers and miners need to be trained in these new technologically driven environments. Previous research in fields like aviation, medical surgery, and oil and gas drilling has demonstrated the effectiveness of virtual simulation training, but the mining sector has yet to fully adopt advanced tools such as eye-tracking and immersive training modules. This research proposes a comprehensive training infrastructure incorporating these technologies to enhance situational awareness and decision-making during emergencies. The novelty lies in the application of advanced miner escape and communication technologies, specifically designed to monitor and enhance cognitive responses in high-stress situations. By leveraging these technologies, the proposed training infrastructure aims to prepare the next generation of underground miners and operators, by equipping them with the necessary skills to manage emergencies effectively.

Feb 1, 2025

By N. Wahl, D. M. Blackketter, R. Thornton

This paper evaluated using a water-filled abandoned mine (Orphan Boy) as a heat source for a 240- kW closed-loop heat pump with the goal of heating a 2,000-m2 building. The mine has a 245-m vertical shaft connected to a large stope by three horizontal cross-cut shafts. There is 1,250 x 106 L of water at a consistent temperature of 24-26° C that is available mostly in the stope. The only heat exchanger placement option is in the vertical shaft. Therefore, the focus was to model heat exchanger placement in the vertical shaft to determine the extent to which the systems will induce thermal currents between the stope and vertical shaft. Modeling of thermal currents, temperature profiles and heat contribution from the ground was done using finite difference and computational fluid dynamics. An optimal configuration was determined showing sufficient water movement and heat transfer will occur with a low water temperature in the shaft above 20° C. This project supports a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant that will implement the full-scale system.

Jan 1, 2013

By David R. Wilburn

The U.S. Bureau of Mines investigated the resources, costs, capacities, market relationships, and short-and long-term supply of bauxite, alumina, and aluminum. The 45 evaluated mines and deposits in 14 market economy countries (MEC's) have a demonstrated resource of 8.4 billion mt of bauxite and an aluminum content of approximately 2.1 billion mt. Developed world bauxite resources and existing primary aluminum smelting and refining capacity are sufficient to satisfy demand through at least 1995, when additional properties (with higher cost levels) would need to be developed to satisfy future demand levels. It is anticipated that new alumina or aluminum production most likely would occur in developing regions with large bauxite potential, low-cost energy sources, and a close proximity to refining and/or smelting capacity. An increase in aluminum recycling capacity would help meet future demand increases. A series of network model supply analyses was performed for the period 1988 through 2000. Based on announced future production levels and assuming demand grows at the level outlined in the analyses, model results indicate there is sufficient material available to meet demand until 1998, where-upon an aluminum shortfall is projected. Additional analyses investigated the effect of a reduced growth rate of demand and regional production variations in Venezuela on the international aluminum industry.

Jan 1, 1993

By Harold M. Smith

This publication summarizes the literature on the composition of petroleum, with special emphasis on naphtha and gas oil, and provides a source book for the known qualitative and quantitative facts on crude oil composition. The discussion points out the known facts from supposition, and suggests new researches needed in various areas.

Jan 1, 1968