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By JIAQI JIN, Chen-Luh Lin, Amanda N. Erskine, Jan D. Miller, Shijie Wang

The liberation and exposure of valuable mineral grains in ore particles are of significant importance in understanding the efficiency of flotation separations. A flotation feed sample from the Kensington concentrator was scanned by micro Xray computed tomography (micro-XCT), to determine the liberation and exposure of auriferous pyrite grains. The analysis results suggest a satisfying extent of liberation for particle sizes smaller than 212 μm. Theoretical flotation recovery of pyrite for selected particle size fractions was predicted from the three-dimensional liberation and exposure analysis. The plant flotation tail was also characterized by micro-XCT to identify liberated and partially liberated pyrite particles that might not be collected into the concentrate. However, liberation analysis of the tail sample revealed that the majority of liberated pyrite was recovered in the plant flotation circuit. Trainable Weka, a machine learning segmentation approach, was compared with the Watershed thresholding segmentation for the 106 × 45 μm particle size fraction scanned at a voxel size of 1.85 μm. Improved segmentation of small particles was found using the machine learning method.

Mar 1, 2024

By Dale Preece, C. Mick Lownds

Detonation delay timing has been an important aspect of quality rock blasting for decades. Detonators that enable delay timing have improved over the years especially with the recent advent of precision electronic detonators. The positive effects of precision delay timing have been observed repeatedly in the field with improved fragmentation, heave and overall blast control.

Jan 1, 2008

By Dale S. Preece

"Detonation delay timing has been an important aspect of quality rock blasting for decades. Detonators that enable delay timing have improved over the years especially with the recent advent of precision electronic detonators. The positive effects of precision delay timing have been observed repeatedly in the field with improved fragmentation, heave and overall blast control. Three-dimensional computational capabilities in terms of software, material models and computer speed have recently made possible the computer simulation of multiple blast holes in a bench configuration with precise delay timing between holes. Some of the key physical phenomena enabled by precise delay timing include: 1) collision and interaction of stress waves produced by adjacent blast holes, 2) reinforcement of stress waves from multiple holes as they reflect from the bench face and ground surface, 3) reflection of stress waves from “dynamic free surfaces” created by previously detonating holes, and 4) deformation induced fracturing, cracking and fragmentation. Simulating rock blasting in 3D has shed light on the physics involved and is resulting in an evolution of our understanding of fragmentation mechanisms. Routine use of these 3D computational tools will result in a much better understanding of the complex physics set in motion by the rock blasting process and allow predictionof improved blasting."

Jan 1, 2009

By R. Reddy Kallu

Prior to July 2007, the only accepted method by MSHA for evaluating the mine seal design and performance is the full-scale explosion tests conducted in the NIOSH?s Lake Lynn Experimental Mine (LLEM) for deeming a seal design suitable for use in U.S. coal mines. Since the new regulations came into effect use of these conventional full-scale explosion tests for evaluating mine seals for the new elevated design standards may not be practicable. Generation of such high explosion pressures in experimental mines is dangerous and may cause permanent damage to the testing facilities. Further, they require significant amount of time, labor and money. Considering these factors, there is a need to develop scientific methods for evaluation of new seal designs and for understanding the dynamic seal response. This paper tries to address the reinforced concrete (RC) seal design using the three dimensional finite element based explicit software ABAQUS. Full-scale explosion test data available from NIOSH?s LLEM on 20 psi reinforced concrete seal is used for validating the numerical models. Further in this paper, based on the results from the validation models, a reinforced concrete seal is designed for 120 psi design standard for typical entry dimensions.

Jan 1, 2009

By N Madani

Linear interpolation of geo-related variables is important to different aspects of mining engineering such as long and short-term mine planning. The ore deposit description attained from spatial modeling of blast hole datasets has been widely taken into account, particularly, for short-term mine design and grade control, so as to define the ultimate destination of a mined block. It is approved in practice that making the wrong decision leads to losing a huge amount of money for choosing the destination of a mined block. In the case of complex ore deposits, the issue of estimation of variables in the region is questionable and somehow tedious. Due to this fact, modeling those complications in the co-spatial behavior of the grades in multi-element deposits prompts one to employ enhanced geostatistical techniques. Traditional approaches of this purpose such as polygon, inverse distance weighted and even (co)-kriging approaches, are incapable of reproducing those complexities such as non-linearity, heteroscedasticity and geological constraint that frequently exist among the variables of interest in those deposits. Another difficulty in employing those linear interpolations in grade estimation is smoothing effect, in which the estimated grades are over and under estimated. CITATION: Madani, N, 2018. 3D estimation of variables with complexity in cross-correlation structures, in Proceedings Complex Orebodies Conference 2018, pp 49–52 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Nov 21, 2018

By L. B. Hales

Image analysis for feed belts and flotation has been used for over 20 years. It has been shown to aid in the modelling and optimization of Sag Mill circuits, and any improvements in the image analysis result in improvements in the model for control. Using a laser to measure the height-profile of rocks on the conveyor has been shown to increase the accuracy of the size classification. We have developed a system using two cameras in a stereoscopic configuration to provide height-profile measurement without the added expense and safety concerns of using a laser. Additionally, we have developed a novel technique for calibration of the system, using artificial intelligence techniques to optimize the model fit by adjusting the image analysis tuning parameters to values resulting in the best classification.

Feb 27, 2013

By Yazen Khasawneh, Osvaldo P. M. Vitali, John E. Agee, Mohammad Nassim

A 3D FEM modeling of a ground improvement solution for an ice rink slab with stringent differential settlement limits is presented. Due to the complexity of the geotechnical conditions and strict deformation requirements, a structural slab supported by micropiles was initially proposed. However, this solution was costly and alternative solutions using ground improvement techniques were investigated. The proposed slab is supported directly on rock at one end and on approximately 45-ft deep cohesive soils on the other end. The numerical simulations show that differential settlement would be larger than allowable, if the ice rink slab is supported directly on the existing subgrade. The addition of the ground improvement scheme with compaction grouting demonstrated that the anticipated differential settlements are reduced significantly and would become less than the allowable magnitude. This study demonstrates that the use of numerical simulations to study complex loading and geological conditions will help to optimize designs and may result on significant cost savings.

Sep 8, 2021

By D. Kruse, M. Sanaei

"A three dimensional nonlinear finite element model was constructed to simulate and analyze the behavior of large diameter segmentally lined shafts when subjected to seismic waves. To reduce computation time, a less complex shell model was also constructed. Transient excitation was applied to the supported nodes of both models, at the base of the shaft, with a time-function representing the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The models are developed at the end of an original phased construction-stage analysis of the shaft. Displacements, forces and moments are monitored and compared during the analyses steps. During the initial 15 seconds of the earthquake, the top and bottom of the shaft show similar displacements. The maximum horizontal displacement within the shaft is approximately 3.5 inches in the solid model and the shell model results conform to this by a factor of 50%. Keywords: Segmentally Lined Shaft, Soil Structure Interaction, Seismic Analysis, Finite Element Modeling, Ground Modification INTRODUCTION TO SEGMENTALLY LINED SHAFTS Large diameter segmentally lined shafts (SLS) are underground systems, constructed sequentially using precast concrete segments to form a ring which provides both temporary earth support during excavation and permanent structural support. The segments are connected via alignment pins, bolts, packer material and other structural components that ensure the continuity of the SLS. In this analysis, the construction process uses a top-down sequence wherein each soil layer is excavated, damp-proofing is installed and concrete segments are assembled to form each ring. This process is repeated until design depths are achieved completing the shaft. It is known that cylindrical structures sustain lateral (earth) pressure mainly through the mechanism of hoop-stress. As Timoshenko’s ring theory goes, a cylinder shell structure is prone to buckling under external pressure [1]. In typical designs of small diameter shafts and tunnel linings with small diameter to wall thickness ratios, nonlinear buckling analysis (i.e., nonlinear geometric analysis) is not considered, since the buckling capacities for those structures are much higher than typical pressures encountered at their design depths. However, in shafts with large diameter to wall thickness ratios, buckling could become a critical issue. In any given mode, as buckling occurs in a ring, some sections of the structure move inward while alternating sections protrude. Although the presence of the surrounding soil could mitigate the buckling by resisting the movement (Soil structure interaction) seismic loads can cause ground movements and lateral pressures, exceeding the capacity of the structure. It is therefore essential to design the load bearing capacities of the shaft to minimize the possibility of any catastrophic failure due to earthquakes. This study explores the structural response of the SLS when subjected to seismic loads."

Jan 1, 2016

By L. Chanderman, C. E. Dohm

"Mineral Resource estimation (MRE) and classification are highly dependent on the confidence in the model of the orebody geometry, known as the geological model, within which the estimates are constrained. An understanding of the geology of a deposit is thus fundamental to the Mineral Resource evaluation process. The geological model is a function of the structural and depositional complexity of the geology captured by drilling information, which is limited in the early stages of a project. The information effect has a significant impact in terms of the interpretation of the geology as well as the estimation of grade continuity and the resultant risk associated with the Mineral Resource estimate and classification.Therefore, as new drilling information becomes available, it is necessary to update and refine the geological model to appropriately constrain the resource estimates. The grade information is also updated, including statistics and the spatial correlation characteristics. This refinement is based on geological interpretations derived from the drillhole information that becomes available throughout the life of the mine; orebody knowledge that comes from working experience of the deposit, as well as familiarity with the software package used for modelling, is also important.In updating, the potential to identify new resources in previously unknown areas may be realized. The opposite may also occur where previous interpretations of ore continuity are refuted. Both scenarios could result from a better understanding of the geology of the deposit and thus a more realistic MRE, which reduces geological risk. This paper describes how newly drilled advanced grade-control holes for a gold deposit in Mali were used to refine the 3D geological model for the deposit in an attempt to identify the potential for additional oxide ore using conventional geostatistical evaluation techniques."

Jan 1, 2017

By G Guy, J Summerville

Over the past five years in coalmine slope evaluation the application of 3D modelling has increased significantly as software has become more user friendly but also areas requiring evaluation have become increasingly complex. Often simplistic 2D Limit Equilibrium modelling and analysis has been poorly used to solve slope stability issues by back analysis and subsequent forward predictive analysis. A plane strain condition with slope movement perpendicular to the slope strike is assumed where in reality the problem is more complex. This often leads to a misinterpretation of the failure mechanism because the failure mechanism being modelled in 2D does not generally represent the actual failure mechanism observed in the pit, with 2D modelling often oversimplifying a slope. This paper presents a case study where the initial slope assessment and remedial design evaluation was undertaken as a 2D Limit Equilibrium model which led to an overly conservative and costly remedial solution being implemented. Subsequent modelling of the slope using both 3D Limit Equilibrium and Finite Element methods were able to provide a better understanding of the structural complexities associated and correlate well with slope monitoring data to create a more realistic outcome.

Nov 29, 2022

By R H. Knight

Production mine geology must be accurate and efficient in order to reduce risk and ensure that ore value and mining operation revenue are maximised. Present grade control practices are commonly based on outmoded and inaccurate 2D geological mapping techniques where spatial relationships are estimated by eye, sketched by hand and projected to arbitrary reference planes. The 3D mapping approach outlined in this paper integrates 3D photogrammetric imagery with implicit modelling techniques to enable more accurate grade control and reconciliation in underground mines. High-resolution stereo photographs are taken of daily ore development headings. Ore contacts are traced directly on a 2D face photo using a stylus and rugged tablet. Area-weighted face grades are estimated and calculated on mapped 2D face planes. In the office, a 3D photorealistic mesh is processed and georeferenced. 2D face mapping data is transformed into its actual 3D location and true 3D mine mapping is performed by digitising oriented 3D polylines representing ore contacts and other geological features directly onto the image surface. Three-dimensional spatial relationships are fixed, eliminating the projection error of traditional 2D methods. Ore envelope and waste solids are modelled within the closed, drift-round mesh. Volume-weighted ore envelope and round grades, as well as round volume and tonnage, are calculated. Ore/waste classifications, grade, tonnage and per cent dilution are quantified per round, visually assessed in 3D and reconciled with short- and long-term models on a daily basis. Updated geological continuity models provide geological guidance in development headings under geological control and accurate 3D structural and form-line mapping improves definition drilling and stope planning. Three-dimensional imagery provides a permanent detailed survey and geological record of mine workings that can be revisited virtually to reinterpret geological ore controls in light of new observations and insights. In addition images can be used to monitor daily production performance, create training scenarios for miners, engineers and geologists and prepare management presentations. This approach adds value to underground mines by improving the accuracy and efficiency of mine geology practices. The method is particularly effective in mines with visually distinct and geometrically complex orebodies, such as those in the Balmat zinc mine located in New York State, USA, which are used to illustrate the method.CITATION:Knight, R H, 2017. 3D mine mapping – improving grade control and reconciliation in underground mines using photogrammetric imagery and implicit modelling techniques, in Proceedings Tenth International Mining Geology Conference 2017, pp 203–212 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Sep 20, 2017

By S. H. Lau

Rapid 3D characterization of multiphase mineral particles in a variety of mineral processing applications is described, including: mineral liberation analysis, grain size, mineral exposure analysis, particle damage, and pore network structure for fluid flow simulation in heap leaching. While micro X-ray computed tomography systems (microCTs) have been used for many years, industrial adoption is limited due to a variety of reasons, including insufficient resolution, the general lack of imaging contrast to differentiate different mineral phases within a multiphase mineral particle and the lack of automated 3D mineral processing software. For example, resolution with industrial CTs and desktop microCT is of the order of tens of microns to a few microns at best, depending on specimen size and CT configuration. We describe a novel lab-based X-ray microscope, XRM, which overcomes these resolution and contrast limitations, notably as the industry is going towards finer grains and more complex ore bodies. Using lens-based optics and detectors (similar to its XRM counterpart in synchrotron beam lines), resolution of the lab based system is in the submicron range with contrast better than conventional microCTs. Hence, visualization, differentiation and segmentation of most mineral phases of interest to the industry are now feasible. Coupling these high resolution and high contrast tomography images with a suite of customized 3D segmentation algorithms and analysis software, applications in mineral liberation analysis for process control, particle damage assessment and other mineral processing applications can be achieved. This non invasive 3D technique which requires relatively little sample preparation is currently being considered for coal, industrial minerals, and base/precious metal ores, complementing existing microscopy techniques such as QEMSCAN and MLA for a variety of applications

Sep 1, 2012

By Muhammad Zaka Emad, Rangzeb Goraya, Muhammad Usman Khan

"Numerical modeling has been used extensively to assess the stability of surface and underground mines. Tabular, steeply dipping ore bodies are generally mined out by open stoping methods with delayed backfill. Cemented rockfill (CRF) is employed as a backfill material for narrow vein deposits with low production rates. Sublevel stoping methods with delayed backfill are employed to mine out steeply dipping ore bodies. Backfill is exposed to blast-induced vibrations and dynamic loading due to loss of confinement, which could lead to backfill failures. Backfill failures could influence the operating cost of a mining stope and the productivity of the entire mining project. This work shows a detailed overview of the factors contributing to backfill failure. A detailed literature review is presented along with case studies of longhole stoping operations from the Canadian Shield region for this work. The backfilled stopes are analyzed with the finite difference code FLAC3D. The literature review shows that the factors primarily responsible for fill failure are the strength of backfill, stope geometry, mining sequence, and blast-induced vibrations. INTRODUCTION Sublevel stoping methods with delayed backfill are popular in Canadian hardrock and metal mines. Backfill facilitates ground control and greater recovery of ore with pillar mining. It reduces wall slough, thus decreasing ore dilution from adjacent walls. The production of cemented rockfill (CRF) is simple; rock aggregates are mixed together with cement slurry and then placed in a mined-out stope. CRF has a low water content, thus it requires no additional drainage unlike some other backfill. Low water-to-cement ratio enables faster curing rate, hence a faster mining cycle can be achieved (Annor, 1999; Hassani and Archibald, 1998; McKay and Duke, 1989). CRF is generally placed in stopes from the upper sill drift using a truck or a load haul dump machine. Some of the problems associated with CRF are the moderate to high operational cost, the difficulty to get a tight filling, and segregation. Backfill failure is a product of many factors, such as cementation, particle size distribution, placement method employed, water quality, segregation, and blast-induced vibrations. The problem of segregation in aggregates has been observed when aggregate is dumped from a backfill raise (Meech, 2012; Indiana DOT, 2013). Segregation becomes unavoidable when the aggregates are not properly sized (Yu and Counter, 1983; Stone, 2007; Yu, 1989). The exposed backfill zones will contribute to ore dilution due to backfill when subjected to dynamic loading due to fill failures. This paper presents a detailed literature review and numerical modeling results of a mine backfill, along with case studies from longhole stoping operations. The backfilled stopes are analyzed with the finite difference code FLAC3D (Itasca, 2017). The literature review shows that the primary factors responsible for fill failure are the strength of backfill, geometry of stope, sequence of mining, and the vibrations induced by blasting operations."

Jan 1, 2017

By Michelle Stokes, Alexandra Miller, Campbell McKenzie

"The ancestral Ringarooma River in northeast Tasmania has transported alluvial tin and other heavy minerals from their onshore source of stanniferous Devonian granites downstream into what is now Ringarooma Bay. Previous exploration work has demonstrated the presence of potentially economic tin mineralisation within the palaeochannels and terraces associated with the submerged river.The offshore tin resource lies directly on the seabed or with less than 2 m of overburden, and within 5 - 50 m water depths in the wider bay area. The main river channel continues offshore for at least 13 km, with high tin grades found within the palaeochannel but also dispersed across the sea floor as a sheet wash, a result of Quaternary sea level change reworking the placer deposits. This drowned portion of the coastal plain contains a continuation of rich tin leads as low gradient anastomosing channels, and has been delineated by marine seismic and drilling activity since the 1960s. Tin grades in the Tertiary and Quaternary alluvial profiles vary from 50 - 300 g/m3, with the highest concentrations in the coarser basal horizons. A previous offshore explorer estimated a resource of 194 Mm3 at 150 - 250 g/m3.Kenex Ltd created 3D models of the paleochannels and the mineralisation with the aim of better constraining the resource estimate and identifying additional depositional areas. The modelling was undertaken with the input of geophysical data, bathymetry and geochemical sampling of the seabed surface and from historic offshore drill holes. A prospectivity model covering Ringarooma Bay was produced to target tin-bearing gravels. Predictive maps were created to represent various features of the offshore mineral system, including assessing gradient changes in palaeochannels and their sinuosity. The model identifies areas with higher potential for alluvial tin mineralisation and will be used to focus the exploration programme over tenements currently held by Kenex Ltd."

Sep 1, 2014

By Jian-bin Xie, Lin-fang Shen, Zhi-liang Wang

"In order to research temperature field for construction of connecting passage in Metro using artificial freezing method, the finite difference software FLAC3D is employed to numerically simulate construction process of connecting passage. During construction, the overall distribution of temperature field around connecting passage, the relationship between soil temperature and freezing time, the distribution and variation for the thickness of freezing wall are studied from the perspective of numerical analysis. The results show as follows: after 55 days’ freezing, the soil temperature surrounding connecting passage is about -24 oC ~ -28 oC, and the minimum thickness of freezing wall is about 4.0m, which is larger than the design value 3.1m. So construction conditions have satisfied to the excavation of connecting passage and pumping station. During the excavation of connecting passage, soil temperature has almost no obvious change and the thickness of freezing wall remains constant mainly. After 45 days’ normal thawing, the temperature of freezing wall rises 12 oC approximately. And the soil temperature rises faster at the beginning of the normal thawing stage. In the whole process of construction, the frozen area is about 5m outside the edge of connecting passage, and the cooling area is about 10m outside the edge of connecting passage. INTRODUCTIONThe first recorded application of the artificial freezing method is on a mineshaft project in 1862, and it has been widely used in foundation pit engineering, subway tunnels, mine shaft engineering and so on (Wang Zhiliang, 2010; Zhang Juanxia, 2012; Qiu Fan, 2007; Zhou Xiaomin, 1999). This method has many advantages of enhancing soil strength; decreasing permeability and adopting various unstable soils (silt clay, sand, gravel, etc.). It has been applied successfully in metro engineering construction in Beijing, Shanghai and Nanjing. According to incomplete statistics, the construction of connecting passage using artificial freezing method accounted for 98% in Shanghai metro (Qiu Fan, 2007)."

Jan 1, 2015

By M. Isac, R. I. L. Guthrie, S. Ge

The Al-Mg-Sc-Zr alloys have shown exceptional potential as structural materials for transportation applications. These alloys have proved to be good candidates to be processed as thin strips via the Horizontal Single Belt Casting (HSBC) process. The HSBC process is a near-net-shape casting technology, which involves casting molten metal directly into thin strips, close to the final product thickness, at high cooling rates. It offers an efficient, economical and environmentally-friendly approach to the production of metal strips. Fluid mechanics and associated heat transfer are important aspects of any casting process, and the novel HSBC process is no exception. Three dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations using ANSYS FLUENT 14.5 were performed, in order to assess the importance and effects of the various operational conditions of the HSBC process. This enabled process parameter optimization. Numerical predictions were validated against experimental casting results.

Jan 1, 2014

By Su-Ping Peng

Three dimensional (3D) seismic exploration has been carried out since the 1980s in the mining district of China, where it has been playing an indispensable role in the high yield and efficiency of coal mining. Unlike oil exploration, this technique uses high density seismic acquisition technology. In recent years, it has focused on wide azimuth 3D seismic acquisition. Evaluation of geometry moved away from depending on folds, azimuth and offset, toward being based upon a focus-ray beam. Conventionally, coalfield 3D seismic interpretation focused on time domain and was based on kinematics information, which is only suitable for less complex geological conditions. To achieve high-resolution processing for the complex topography and structure in coalfields, data processing shifted from poststack to prestack. The means to improve the accuracy of interpretation for complex geological conditions are 1) integration of multiple attributes and multiple disciplines, 2) combination of seismic and geological data, and 3) comprehensive combination of time domain and depth domain data. With the demand for lithological exploration, high-resolution data processing must also take into account the requirements of preserving amplitude in seismic data. Seismic attributes technology, seismic inversion technology, and dynamic tracking interpretation are key techniques in 3D seismic exploration. They greatly improve interpretation accuracy, produce better results in the goaf space description of the coal-bearing strata and coal seam structure, and effectively reduce exploration costs under complicated geological conditions. Therefore, these techniques will be the primary means employed in the future to deal with coalfield complex structure and lithological exploration.

Aug 1, 2013

By M. Wu, A. Kharicha, A. Ludwig

"The droplet formation during melting of a 400 mm diameter electrode is simulated with a multiphase-MHD approach. The computational model includes a layer of slag and a layer of liquid steel. A VOF approach is used for the interface tracking and a potential formulation is used for the electric and the magnetic field. The Lorentz force and the Joule heating are recalculated at each time step in function of the phase distribution. The first results provided by this model are presented.IntroductionThe Electro-Slag-Remelting (ESR) process is an advanced technology for the production of components of e.g. high quality steels [ 1-9]. An alternating current (Figure 1) is passed from a conventionally melted and cast solid electrode through a layer of molten slag to the baseplate. Because of the electrical resistivity of the slag, Joule heating is generated and the slag transfers this energy to ingot and mould surfaces and to the melting electrode tip. The molten metal produced in the form of droplets passes through the slag and feeds a liquid pool from where directional solidification takes place. The slag and the ingot are contained in a water cooled copper mould. As also the baseplate is water cooled, a heat flow regime is imposed that gives controlled solidification, and this results in improved structure characteristics of ESR ingots.This process involves two liquids, a liquid metal and a liquid slag. Each liquid is subject to a phase change due to melting and/or solidification. From a fluid dynamic point of view, the ESR process is clearly a multiphase process, with free interfaces (slag/pool, gas/slag), and with a mixed area (slag and falling steel droplets) [ 10-15].Physically, the development of the heat and mass transfer at the slag/droplet interface is important for the final ingot quality, composition and cleanliness. Visual observations of the droplet formation just under the electrode being melted is almost impossible. Due to the presence of high temperatures, opacity of the materials, and the presence of the mould it is not possible to directly observe the behaviour the slag/pool interface. Although usually assumed flat [1-9], a previous work [10] using a Volume of fluid (VOF) model has shown that the interface shape between a layer of slag and steel layer in a cylindrical cavity is highly coupled with the distribution of the electric current. A full scale simulation of the ESR process using a VOF model has shown that the shape of the pool interface is likely to be non flat."

Jan 1, 2011

By G. Argyris

A number of important studies, ongoing environment monitoring efforts and mining and road construction projects in the lignite based electrical power production area of Amyntaio ? Ptolemais in North West Greece require an accurate and up to date model of the topography. In recognition of the importance of such a model, a project was initiated by the Laboratory of Mining Information Technology and GIS Applications in the Department of Geotechnology and Environmental Engineering of the Technological Educational Institute of Western Macedonia. A massive surface triangulation model was generated from vector data using an optimized Delaunay based method. Combined with aerial and satellite imagery, the triangulation model provides a complete 3D terrain model of the area characterized by high levels of accuracy, detail and realism. The generated model is easy to modify with new data in order to improve its detail and keep it up to date with ongoing earth moving and development operations in the area.

Jan 1, 2008

By C. A. Ingram

The Cigar Lake ore body is a high-grade uranium deposit situated within water-saturated sandstone. In order to extract the uranium ore remotely, ensuring minimal radiation dose to workers, and also to access the ore from stable ground, the Jet Boring System (JBS) was developed. This method of mining involves drilling a pilot hole up through a frozen ore body and utilizing a high-powered water jet to mine out cavities. During the mining process an ultrasonic sensor will be used to provide feedback to the operator, who is located beneath the ore body, as to the dimensions of the cavity. However, more precise data is required to determine final shape, volume, and location of the cavity for mine planning purposes. Selecting a device that will provide sufficient range data in the challenging environment will be vital to optimizing the mining process. Major issues include fog build up and flying debris during mining, and an environment that is wet, dark, and cold A test cavity has been designed and constructed at the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) so that a study comparing three different technologies, as prospective candidates for the survey system, can be conducted. The devices being evaluated include a Senix ultrasonic sensor, an MDL Cavity Auto-Scanning Laser System (C-ALS), and a MESA Time of Flight (ToF) camera. The ultrasonic sensor is known to provide range data in foggy conditions but has low accuracy. The C-ALS has been developed for surveying remote cavities but is expensive and does not provide reliable data in fog. The ToF camera provides a high volume of data in a short time period, with potential to provide accurate information in extreme conditions, but has not been tested in a mine cavity application. Iterative closest point (ICP) registration is applied in an attempt to create a 3D point cloud from the scan data and to also compute rotation and translation of the ToF camera. This paper presents an overview of the challenges involved in conducting a survey within a JBS mined cavity, the analysis used to determine the suitability of each device, and the data collected from the test cavity.

Aug 1, 2013