Search Documents

By J. E. Rourke, O&apos

A wide variety of techniques and equipment are available for coring soft or poorly consolidated geological material. This report presents a comprehensive literature review and evaluation of these techniques and equipment. A potential user will find guidelines in this report to assist him in selecting sampling equipment. A bar chart shows what samplers have been used under what geological conditions, and gives the specific literature references. Two matrices rate the present techniques and equipment with respect to reported success for sampling specific materials, and with respect to several performance characteristics including complexity of use and core quality. These matrices are supplemented with tables of typical sampling equipment. and program costs. Near-term future developments are seen primarily in improved training of drillers, and in instrumenting the drilling operation to provide objective data on drilling characteristics. An extensive annotated bibliography, a catalogue of equipment suppliers including specifications and cost ranges, and a list of manufacturers and distributors are appended to the report.

Jan 1, 1978

By Motohisa Kanda

The time and amplitude statistics necessary to adequately describe electromagnetic (FM) noise in mines are illustrated through computer software techniques. They are 1) Allan Variance Analyses (AVA), 2) Interpulse Spacing Distributions (ISD), 3) Pulse Duration Distributions (PDD), 4) Average Crossing Rates (ACR), and S) Amplitude Probability Distributions (APD). These statistics are illustrated using data taken from a rather large store of raw analog data recorded in operational mines. The curves generated for the illustrations characterize the noise environment in the mines from which the corresponding data were taken, and should aid in the design of reliable communication systems for such mines.

Jan 1, 1974

By L. K. Weaver

The Bureau of Mines has started an engineering study of oil recovery by miscible-phase displacement. As a preliminary part of the investigation a literature and patent study was made to prevent duplication of work already done, to become acquainted with those actively engaged in research of this type, and to learn where the recovery method has been attempted. This bibliography gives results of this study. The bibliography includes 254 references to U.S. and foreign patents and published literature relating to miscible-phase displacement processes of oil recovery. It is divided into the following sections: (1) U.S. patents, (2) foreign patents, (3) literature references, (4) author index, and (5) publication and source reference. The patents and literature references are listed alphabetically by author by intervals of years. References to February 1963 are included.

Jan 1, 1963

By George H. Johnson

This report describes the procedures and summarizes the results of an investigation of surface subsidence above caving blocks at the San Manuel mine, San Manuel, Ariz., in order to obtain quantitative information on subsidence and ground movement caused by mining large volumes of ore. This investigation is one part of an overall study of rock mechanics being undertaken by the Bureau of Mines. Attention was given to the improvement of a rapid and precise method of surveying a large number of subsidence pins and cracks in the surface terrain. Photogrammetric methods were used as an adjunct to the triangulation subsidence surveying as well as in ordinary topographic work Maps of various kinds were prepared to show the results obtained. The computation of the survey notes was programed for an electronic digital computer at a saving of time and expense over the use of a desk calculator and trigonometric tables.

Jan 1, 1963

By Svend [Bue] Rondum

The final report contains a summary of the work performed under this contract, In addition to the report itself, other products were derived from this effort. Several hardware items were prototyped for use with underground belt conveyors, and a manual for installation and maintenance procedures was developed and published under separate cover. Recommendations have been included for implementation of the tools and the manual or, an industry-wide basis.

Jan 1, 1982

By W. R. Crank

[Rock bursts are phenomena associated with mining operations, particularly with deep mining, although they occur throughout a wide rump, of depth, from 600 feel downward. The intensity is usually in direct proportion to the depth, varying from a loosening and sloughing off to a violent rupture, giving rise to the term, "explosive rock." The more or less violent breaking of rock in mine working, tins been variously designated as " flaking," "pressure hoists," "strain bursts," "bumps," "quakes," and "air blasts," which indicate opinions as to cause and effect. The term "air blast" lots probably beat most widely used, and naturally so, as a more or less rapid movement of air often accompanying the more violent phenomena of rock failure. Furthermore, there is an implied if not definitely expressed degree of magnitude in the action designited by a given term and in the cause and character of the action. For example. flaking, pressure bursts, and quakes are terms ranged to indicate action of increasing magnitude; and pressure bursts, strain bursts. bumps, and quakes are ranged according to the cause and character of the action.]

Jan 1, 1929

By Eleanor Abshire

[THE INCREASING use of hafnium as a vital component in atomic power reactors has brought this metal into recent prominence. A literature survey was made and this bibliography was compiled to provide research and production groups with a ready source of reference to this important metal anti its compounds. This service is rendered by the Zirconium Information Center, which is sponsored by the Department of the Navy, Bureau of Ships, and the F .S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, tit the Bureau's Northwest Electrodevelopment Experiment Station, Albany, Oreg. The following reference sources have been reviewed for this compilation : Chemical Abstracts; Industrial Arts Index; Crerar Metals Abstracts; Nuclear Sciences Abstracts; Bureau of Mine; Information Cicular 7771, Bibliography of Zirconium; anal Bureau of Mint' Information Circular 7830, Bibliography of Zirconium, suppllement to Information Circular 7771.]

Jan 1, 1960

By D. E. Wolfson

As part of its overall program of coal carbonization, the Bureau of Mines is studying the coking properties of coals that may be used for metallurgical purposes. The objectives of this study were given in detail in a previous report.2/ The suitability of coal for metallurgical use depends primarily on (1) chemical composition, (2) preparation characteristics, and (3) carbonization behavior. The first two factors, as well as the available reserves, are considered in selecting coals for carbonization tests. According to the estimate of reserves by Dowd,3/ the recoverable coal in Raleigh County in beds 28 inches or more thick, in thousand tons, is: [ ]

Jan 1, 1957

By T. R. Achenbach

1. This, the final report to the U. S. Bureau of Mines on the program with the subject title, presents the data obtained from June 29, 1973, to April 20, 1974. 2. Operating in the Illinois #6 coal seam, the effectiveness of foam opposed to water was compared in reducing respirable coal dust. A combination of 39 foam generators and 14 water sprays were used during the foam tests. Sixty one water sprays were operated during the water tests. Data from 24 shifts using foam and 21 shifts using water are presented. 3. Additional work on foam generator design should be undertaken to provide coverage to a wider area with foam. 4. The general attitude of those working on the foam program and with the miner at the face was positive. It is urged that the work be continued. 5. The minor respiratory irritations evidently caused by an aerosol effect of the surfactant should be investigated. 6. The statistical analysis of the tests will be made and reported by the U. S. Bureau of Mines.

Jan 1, 1974

By F. A. Rutledge

The Bureau of Mines Investigated the Copper Bullion claims at Rua Cove on the east coast of knight Island in Prince William Sound, Alaska, during November-December 1948 and March-April 1949. This project was part of the Bureau of Mines program for developing critical and strategic minerals in Alaska, Mineralization at the copper deposit on the Copper Bullion group of claims is mainly pyrrhotate and chalcopyrite, confined to a northeast-trending shear zone in the greenstone 2,000 feet northwest of Rua Cove. The property has been partly developed by two adits, by a number of crosscuts from the upper adit, and by several diamond-drill holes.

Jan 1, 1953

By John C. Machisak

The National Safety Competition is sponsored and conducted annually by the Bureau of Mines, U. S. Department of the Interior, to stimulate greater interest in safety in the mineral-extractive industries and to encourage the development of more effective accident-prevention programs. Since its beginning in 1925, thirty-four safety contests have been conducted. This publication reports results of the 11 annual contests for the period 1948-1958, inclusive. Mineral operations awarded the "Sentinels of Safety" trophy for the best safety record in their competitive group as well as those ranking second, third, fourth, and fifth are listed along with a summary of their achievements in preventing disabling injuries. In addition, this publication contains statistical information reflecting the disabling work-injury experience of all other mines and quarries enrolled in the annual contests. The injury statistics of these operations are arranged in the six groups of the competition and through 1955 are the only data on injury-severity at noncoal mineral operations published by the Bureau of Hines. Recognition of the National Safety Competition in promoting safety has increased steadily during its 34 years. The number of plants participating in these annual competitions increased from 210 in 1925, its first year, to a record of 675 in 1958. The expanding scope of the National Safety Competition indicates that more mines and quarries in the United States are enrolling 90 all available means to promote safety on the job will be used. Safety contests like this are generally recognized, in the field of safety promotion, as an effective way to arouse and hold the interest of employees and officials in accident-prevention programs. They tend to forge individual precautionary acts into group action centered on a common objective, such as winning the ?Sentinels of Safety? trophy.

Jan 1, 1960

By David E. Fogelson

One model each of three different makes of portable displacement seismographs was calibrated on a shaking table capable of 5,000 pounds of force, Calibration tests were conducted in the frequency range of 5 to 200 c.p,s, and in the amplitude range of 0,002 to 0.05 inch peak-to-peak, The seismographs were tested under two mounting conditions: (1) The feet of the instrument were bolted to the shaking table, and (2) the feet were resting on emery cloth affixed to the table, The results of these tests show that, in the frequency range of 5 to 40 c.p,s, and for vibration levels less than 0.2 g, the magnification for all three instruments is constant with input level but varies slightly with frequency. For vibration levels greater than 0.4 g. and for frequencies greater than 40 c.p.s., the magnification of all three instruments shows large variations with frequency and amplitude of table motion.

Jan 1, 1962

By J. R. Allsup

Air pollutants in exhaust gas produced from LP-gas (propane) were studied using both laboratory engines and vehicles. The objective of the study was to evaluate engine parameters relating to the advantageous use of propane as a low-pollution fuel. Some comparisons are made between gasoline, natural gas, and propane. Results show that engines can operate over a wider range of A/F with minimum carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emission when using propane than when using gasoline. Mixture enrichment using propane is unnecessary during cold starts, thereby eliminating the emission penalty during warmup. Carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emission using propane are unaffected by ambient temperature. The photochemical reactivity of hydrocarbon emission is considerably lower with propane than with gasoline.

Jan 1, 1972

By Richard A. Dick

This Bureau of Mines report describes the evolution of modern-day blasting agent and slurry products and the state of the art of the usage of these products as it exists today. The steadily increasing consumption of blasting agents and slurries at the expense of cartridged high-explosive usage is related. Although safety is not covered in depth, reference is made to pertinent safety literature available. Product formulations, detonation reactions, and detonation products are discussed. Product terminology is defined and the significant differences between the relatively insensitive modern-day dry blasting agents and slurries and cap-sensitive high explosives are described. Blasting agent and slurry properties are discussed, as well as methods of determining and describing these properties, and specific types of products are also discussed with reference to their ingredients,-properties, and field applications. Increasing consumption of slurries, particularly in small-diameter boreholes, and the development of more cap-sensitive varieties of slurries are forecast although dry blasting agents should continue to dominate the market. The consumption of cartridged high explosives will level off or gradually decrease.

Jan 1, 1972

By L. C. IlsLey, J. W. Paul, E. J. Gleim

Flame safety lamps have been used in gaseous mines since the Davy lamp was introduced, more than 100 years ago. During the last decade the flame safety lamp has been rapidly replaced by the electric lamp as a device for illuminating the miner's working place; in the United States the electric cap lamp has been widely adopted. For example, in 1911 approximately 45,000 flame lamps and no electric lamps were being used in the Pennsylvania bituminous mines, which were then producing 35 per cent of all the soft coal mined in this country; by 1918 the flame lamps had decreased to 17,000, whereas electric lamps-mostly of one maketotaled nearly 48,000. In Great Britain during the same years the total of 723,934 flame lamps decreased to 590,185 and the electric lamps gained rapidly from 4,298 to 156,521. No later reliable figures are at hand. However, before the flame lamp becomes obsolete, it is fitting that the Bureau of Mines compile a permanent record of a device which has served the mining industry for more than three generations, and not only made possible the development of entire districts that otherwise could not have been worked but undoubtedly saved the lives of thousands of underground workers. Flame safety lamps are capable of doing more than the name indicates. First, under normal conditions, they can be used in a mine atmosphere that contains an explosive mixture of gas and air without great danger of exploding such a mixture, though such use of a flame lamp should not be permitted. Second, to an experienced man they indicate percentages of gas much lower than the explosive limit, and thus can be used to indicate to workers the approach of an unsafe condition in the mine atmosphere. Third, flame lamps will not burn in an atmosphere greatly deficient in oxygen, and they therefore warn the users of such deficiency in time to withdraw to a place of safety. Flame safety lamps are still used rather widely in the United States for general illumination and to a still greater extent for detecting gas. Many coal-producing States require fire bosses to use these lamps in gaseous mines, and the regulations of several States specify that a gIven number of such lamps be kept available for emergency service.

Jan 1, 1924

By C. H. Fisher

Sulphuric acid of various concentrations has long been used as a reagent in the determination of olefins and aromatics in hydrocarbon oils4 such as gasoline, kerosene, and neutral oils from coal-tar distillates. Despite its long use, however, there is no general agreement as to optimum conditions and concentration of acid, and numerous methods and modifications have been recommended. In most cases, treatment of the neutral oil with 80 to 90 percent sulphuric acid, followed by distillation to the original endpoint to remove olefin polymers, is recommended for the estimation of unsaturated hydrocarbons. The distillate thus obtained is taken as olefin-free oil and used in later stages of the anlysis. Aromatic hydrocarbons generally are determined in the olefin-free oil by suphonation with more concentrated acid (96 to 100 percent and fuming sulphuric acid are recommended), the hydrocarbons not attacked and removed as water-soluble sulphoric acids being considered as saturated hydrocarbons. In some cases the saturates are examined further by differentiating between cyclic (naphthenes) and acyclic hydrocarbons (paraffins), Generally this is achieved by physical methods, although strong sulphuric acid is known to react preferentially with some types of saturated hydrocarbons. It was the purpose of the present work to make a general study of this type of analysis and to investigate the reactions of hydrocarbons under conditions often used in analyses that employ sulphuric acid reagents. Since previous work is not in good agreement, the optimum concentrations of acid for the different stages of the analysis were determined. Several sulphuric acid methods previously recommended and new modifications were compared, two synthetic solutions being used as the reference oil. The results obtained are presented below under separate headings.

Jan 1, 1937

By C. H. Fisher

Sulphuric acid of various concentrations has long been used as a reagent in the determination of olefins and aromatics in hydrocarbon oils4 such as gasoline, kerosene, and neutral oils from coal-tar distillates. Despite its long use, however, there is no general agreement as to optimum conditions and concentration of acid, and numerous methods and modifications have been recommended. In most cases, treatment of the neutral oil with 80 to 90 percent sulphuric acid, followed by distillation to the original endpoint to remove olefin polymers, is recommended for the estimation of unsaturated hydrocarbons. The distillate thus obtained is taken as olefin-free oil and used in later stages of the anlysis. Aromatic hydrocarbons generally are determined in the olefin-free oil by suphonation with more concentrated acid (96 to 100 percent and fuming sulphuric acid are recommended), the hydrocarbons not attacked and removed as water-soluble sulphonic acids being considered as saturated hydrocarbons. In some cases the saturates are examined further by differentiating between cyclic (naphthenes) and acyclic hydrocarbons (paraffins), Generally this is achieved by physical methods, although strong sulphuric acid is known to react preferentially with some types of saturated hydrocarbons. It was the purpose of the present work to make a general study of this type of analysis and to investigate the reactions of hydrocarbons under conditions often used in analyses that employ sulphuric acid reagents. Since previous work is not in good agreement, the optimum concentrations of acid for the different stages of the analysis were determined. Several sulphuric acid methods previously recommended and new modifications were compared, two synthetic solutions being used as the reference oil. The results obtained are presented below under separate headings.

Jan 1, 1937

By Doerner H. A.

From thermodynamic calculations Maier predicted that zinc oxide and methane would react at specified temperatures substantially according to equation (1). (1.) ZnO + CH4 = Zn (gas) + CO + 2H2. Other reactions that may take place are (2.) CH4 = C + 2H2. (3.) ZnO + CO = Zn (gas) + CO2. (4.) ZnO + H2 = Zn (gas) + H2O. Maier predicted that 870°C would be the critical temperature above which reaction (1) would take precedence over reaction (2) and that reaction (1), at equilibrium, would be substantially complete at or above 927°C. Theoretical considerations indicate that reaction (1) is reversible: this is supported, but not proved, by experimental data. The other reactions are known to be reversible. At low temperatures reaction (2) requires a catalyst and it is slow below 1000°C. Reactions (3) and (4) are rapid, but the equilibrium constants are such that only small concentrations of CO2 or H2O can be produced below 1000°C. Maier calculated that CO2 should not exceed 0.5 per cent at 870°C., and the calculation for water vapor gives a still smaller order of magnitude.

Jan 1, 1931

By H. A. Doerner

From thermodynamic calculations3 Maier predicted that zinc oxide Land methane would react at specified temperatures substantially according to equation (1). (1) ZnO + CH; = Zn (gas) + CO + 2H2 Other reactions that may take place are: (2) CH4 = C + 2H2. (3) ZnO + CO = Zn (gas) + CO2 (4) ZnO + H 2 = Zn (gas) + H2O . Maier predicted that 870°C. would be the critical temperature above which reaction (1) would take precedence over reaction (2) and that reaction (1), at equilibrium, would be substantially complete at or above 927°C.

Jan 1, 1931

By Virgil A. Marple

The objective of this contract was to conduct characterization, evaluation and/or calibration studies of instrumentation used for measuring the quantity of respirable dust in mining atmospheres. Initially, this work involved the upgrading and detailed evaluation of the aerosol test chamber and the development of impactors with respirable classification characteristics. These were used as standards in the chamber for measuring the quantity of respirable dust based on either the ACGIH or BMRC respirable dust criteria. A program was then conducted to calibrate several photometers. In addition, the mass sensitivity of the GCA RAM-1 photometer to water droplets in the respirable size range was determined. Three additional studies were also made in this program. First, an experimental study was performed to ascertain the effect of crosswind, cyclone orientation and particle size on particle sampling and penetration through the 10 mm Dorr-Oliver cyclone. Second, a theoretical study was conducted to refine the theory used to predict the particle collection characteristics of impactors. Third, filter samples with known quantities of diesel and coal particles were produced and delivered to the B. of Mines for testing a Raman scattering analysis technique to discriminate diesel particles in the presence of coal dust.

Jan 1, 1984