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By P. Bolsaitis, L. Skolnick

A model of metallic solutions is postulated which explains the energy of formation of alloys on the basis of changes in electron density around solute and solvent atoms and changes in pairwise interactions between atoms. The model is based on the Wigner-Seitz cell model of metals, with the electronegativities of the metals as the parameter for the electron-attracting power of the constituent atoms. In contrast to models based on the description of cohesive energy in terms of pairwise interactions only, which require an empirical, adjustable correction parameter to the Berthe-lot relations in order to predict negative energies of formation, the electron cell model accounts for both negative and positive energies on the basis of parameters of the pure components. Calculated heats of mixing based on published parameters of the pure metals are found to compare favorably to experimental values, despite the absence of any adjustable parameters in the model. THE formulation of an "exact" quantum mechanical model for the energy of cohesion of metals reduces ultimately to the many-body problem and for a complete solution would require the knowledge of wave functions and energy levels of all the particles in the system. The case of alloys is further complicated by the fact that the potential fields around the constituent atoms are different and the matching of boundary conditions in terms of the resulting wave functions is still an unresolved mathematical problem. It appears that in spite of the numerous investigations that have led to an elucidation of many properties of the metallic state, the formulation of the Hume-Rothery rules in 1931 marks the lone accomplishment toward simple, qualitative prediction of the energy of formation of alloys. More recently Friedel'' and Arafa have utilized the modern concepts of the electronic structure in metals in combination with the Hume-Rothery rules to arrive at quantitative estimates of the energy of formation of alloys with low solute contents. The relative success of the Hume-Rothery rules and Friedel's and Arafa's studies encouraged broaching the subject of formulation of a model based on realistic physical parameters and of conceptual and mathematical simplicity that could be applied to alloys regardless of concentration. On the basis of the free-electron theory, the cohesive energy of pure metals can be expressed as a function of "valence" (number of free electrons per atom), lattice parameter (or density), and the ioniza-tion energy. In addition to the electronic contributions to cohesion, one has to consider the pairwise exchange interaction energy between neighboring ion cores and the contribution from van der Waals forces. The energy changes upon alloying are viewed as resulting primarily from a redistribution of electron densities around the ions (a simplification of the more basic concept of a change of the wave functions of the electrons in the presence of a perturbing potential field). In addition there is a change in the pairwise interactions between neighboring ions which is usually the only factor taken into account in commonly used adaptations of the quasichemical theory. The electronegativities of the metals forming the alloy are used as the measure of the electron-attracting power of the ions in the alloy and the difference in electronegativities as the driving force for changes in electron energy on alloying. The interplay of pairwise interactions and electronic forces results in positive or negative energies of formation of alloys. Results obtained for systems to which the free electron model is best applicable are in good agreement with experimental values. 1) COHESIVE ENERGY OF METALS IN TERMS OF THE ELECTRON CELL MODEL The simplest physical model of a metal is that of a lattice of positive charges immersed in a sea of uniform, negative charge distribution represented by the

Jan 1, 1969

J. J. CARRIGAN, Butte, Mont. (written discussion*).-I think all who have had experience in the operation of metal mines will agree with Dr. Lanza that many improvements can be made in the underground workings to improve health conditions. Physical examination would no doubt be a good thing and would do a great deal in abating the diseases now so common among metal miners, but I cannot see how it would be possible to put this examination into practical working order. Dr. Lanza says, "For the sake of argument, this physical examination should be under state supervision." I think if, this were attempted it would result in nothing but argument. While such a law possibly could he passed in a few states, I feel certain that in the greater number the miners would fight such legislation with the same determination that they would

Jan 4, 1919

Some specific observations might be appropriate concerning the reporting of Research and Development results. Each report is usually directed towards a particular group, such as technical, operational financial, or marketing. The requirements and background of the group receiving the report must be considered, and the emphasis and coverage geared to the training of people concerned. For reports that might have large and varied distribution, it is often feasible to group, either as sections or appendixes, the special details and information of interest only to certain functions within the organization. (A check list prepared in conjunction with the various users of the report is sometimes useful to prevent omissions.) Typical points listed might be: Financial- (1) capital requirements, (2) timing of capital expenditures, (3) tax implications, including depreciation, depletion and investment credits, (4) changes in working capital.

Jan 10, 1967

By J. A. Herbst, J. L. Sepulveda, J. D. Miller

Effective bismuth removal from flue dust residues has been accomplished for flue dusts from both zinc and copper smelters. Selective dissolution of bismuth, with respect to silver and lead, can be achieved by the proper manipulation of temperature, sulfuric acid addition and sodium chloride addition. Optimum levels of these variables were determined using a response surface technique to maximize the objective function: Y = %Bi/(1 + %Ag). In the case of the flue dust residue from a zinc smelter, which contains bismuth as an impurity (0.05%), 86% bismuth removal can be realized with less than 1% combined silver and lead dissolution. Similarly, in the case of flue dust from a copper smelter, which contains bismuth as a primary constituent (3.3%), 93% bismuth removal was obtained with little dissolution of silver and lead values.

Jan 1, 1977

By J. Visman

FOR more than 25 years evaluations of coal cleaning units have appeared in many publications, and during this time considerable progress has been made in developing the theory and techniques of calculating washery results. A variety of characteristics have been defined over the years, many receiving general recognition during the first post-war Coal Preparation Conference in Paris in 1950. Coal preparation has become a science, and the approach to preparation problems is being revolutionized. Formerly, for example, if a coal operator wanted to know the performance of a given cleaning unit for a particular grade of his run-of-mine, he either shipped a carload to the manufacturer for a test run or relied on a report of a test carried out on a coal similar to the one he intended to clean. In modern practice the expensive, time-consuming test work generally can be avoided if the washability curves of the coal in question and the error curve of the cleaner are known. Normally a guarantee can be given on the strength of this information. General acceptance of modern standards has thus reduced the need for pilot-scale models of existing types of coal cleaners. Needless to say, the method requires exhaustive and accurate information on the cleaning unit and on all the additional circumstances affecting its results, in- formation that ultimately can be secured only from actual tests made in the laboratory or in the washery.

Jan 10, 1954

By Richard L. Ash, Thomas E. Pearse

Most theories of blasting phenomena are based on the condition that explosive charges have a spherical shape. If a cylindrical charge is considered, the explosive is usually assumed to have an infinite velocity of detonation. Another limitation is also often imposed whereby only one free face is considered to exist. Unfortunately, these conditions all serve to limit the number of variables involved and tend to over-simplify analyses. The result is that explanations for actual effects from blasts are seldom realistic. In addition, no solution has yet been found to explain the actions of certain blasting agents that appear to stress materials in a different manner than do many of the high explosives. In order to determine causes for some of the unexplained phenomena, investigations were conducted by the writers on both actual field blasts and theoretical problems. Although many solutions have been proposed to explain the rock breakage processes, none relate the effects of hole depth, explosive and rock energy- propagation velocities with charge placement geometry. Evidence indicates there is a definite interdependence of those factors and that they are of vital importance in proper drill-pattern design. For simplicity most of the discussion in this paper applies to vertical blast-holes drilled in uniform massive rock for open pit blasting, although the basic principles presented apply to all forms of blasting with certain basic modifications being necessary for specific field conditions.

Jan 9, 1962

By John M. Warde, Eileen P. Burke

ORES of manganese and chrome have a high order of strategic importance, both metals are basic to the metallurgy and usefulness of steel, the fabric on which our economy rests. Looking beyond the current recession and short range picture of oversupply in these ores, this review attempts to answer the following questions regarding the longterm outlook for these key commodities: By 1970, what will be the probable demand here and abroad, what are future supply prospects, and what effect is the USSR likely to have on the world market? (See summary forecast on facing page.)

Jan 8, 1958

By Lawrence Burkhart, S. B. Joo

A hemispherical, constant volume drop with forced internal circulation was considered as a model approximating a real drop at a similar stage of formation Axially symmetric steady flow within a drop contaminated by surfactants was described by solving the full Navier-Stokes equations written in terms of a meridian plane stream function Rotational flow occurred inside the drop above a computed Reynolds number of 5.8, and the change in interfacial flow caused by imposing a surface-tension gradient at the surface had a significant effect on the internal flow Although the work is quite fundamental in nature, the rotational flow described in the paper is responsible for much of the bulk transport of solute to the interface in hydrometallurgical processes such as solvent extraction.

Jan 1, 1981

By I. J. Corrans

Wet high-intensity magnetic separation (WHIMS) has been successfully applied to the recovery of gold and uranium from the residues of Witwatersrand ores. Good overall recoveries have been achieved for particles as small as 12µ, and finer particles of uranium minerals are recovered when present as inclusions. The best results were obtained with a matrix of soft-iron balls 6 mm in diameter. However, pilot-plant tests drew attention to a major defect of the machine: the matrix could be blocked by wood chips and ferromagnetic particles. This problem was overcome by the incorporation of a modification that allows the balls to be discharged from the rotating annulus. Two full-scale units that incorporate the modification have been installed.

Jan 1, 1980

By L. A. Morley, W. T. Parry

Laboratory prepared clay-quartz sand samples and fault gouge from an open pit slope undergoing plane-type failure were tested in the laboratory to determine potential mining applications of electroosmotic stabilization and to provide a better understanding of electrochemical hardening. Experiments with very low current densities and free access of electrolytes to both anode and cathode showed an increase in cohesion. Cohesion in a fault gouge increased by 9.3 to 113%, depending on location with respect to the electrodes. For this, power consumption was equivalent to 0.727 watt-hr per cu ft (25.69 watt-hr per cu m). Regions of electrochemical hardening were determined by pH and the anolyte used. Electroosmotic stabilization appears as a reasonable solution to some types of mining problems.

Jan 1, 1975

By S. S. Clarke, Douglas C. Brockie

Longhole underground drilling has been carried on in the Tri-State area at various times over the past 35 years or more. W. F. Netzeband reported on this topic in 1926 and in 1930. More recently it has been found that in certain areas of the Picher field, Oklahoma, and under certain conditions, the jackleg or jumbo-mounted drifters can be used more economically and to greater advantage than surface churn drillholes for prospecting. To understand better the problems involved in Eagle-Picher's longhole prospecting program it would be helpful to cover the geologic criteria affecting it. Much has been written about the geology of the Picher field. A more complete description than that given here can be found in a recent paper by J. P. Lyden.

Jan 1, 1956

By Gordon B. French

Occidental's in situ retorting process for oil shale has many advantages over the conventional, underground mine and surface retort. Only a portion of the oil shale is mined and transported outside where it blends with the oil-shale talus found in the area. Spent shale is retained underground without surface disposal problems. The process consumes no water from outside sources. Noise and dust levels are kept at a minimum. As many of the facilities as possible are located underground. More oil is produced from a given area than conventional surface processing. Additional energy can be recovered by using conventional turbines to generate electrical power of magnitude of three to four times required by the operation.

Jan 1, 1977

By M. D. Scott

A second generation tailings system, consisting of 8 km (5 mile) of large diameter 914- mm (36-in.) po1yethylene pipeline, the bulk of which was laid on a 0.2% grade, has been successfully operated by Lornex Mining Corp. for the past 2 yr. The system was designed to operate as a partial flow pipeline during average flows with the ability to pressurize itself and operate as a pressure pipeline under high flows, or clean itself out under sanding conditions. The system has exceeded design capacity and has had very little downtime. Polyethylene pipe was easily and inexpensively installed and has exhibited superior abrasion resistance characteristics.

Jan 1, 1978

By William Kent

A MOST startling and as yet unexplained, failure of steel boilerplates, in two different sets of boilers, is reported in a paper by Arthur J. Maginnis, published in the London Engineer, December 11th, 1885, and reprinted in the American Engineer, January 14th, 1386. The facts of the case, as condensed from Mr. Maginnis's paper and from a number of letters in the subsequent issues of the Engineer, are as follows: 1. The material used for two different sets of boilers on two different steamers, each set consisting of three circular boilers with horizontal steam-chests, passed all tests required by the Board of Trade

Jan 1, 1886

AS you have seen, I have hitherto demonstrated to you the methods for bringing to their proper and pure bodies all metals of any kind of ore that you have found and mined. If these did not now serve human needs all these operations with so much expense and labor would have been profitless and in vain. Therefore I recognize that it is necessary in speaking to touch upon all their operations and to teach you to ma& use of the metals according to the works needed. There are, for instance, some metals that would serve poorly for certain works when reduced to their fineness and perfection. Also, many artificers, in order to avoid expense, are content with having a larger quantity of metals and do not care so much about their perfection. For this reason they willingly accept mixtures of one metal with another, for example, of silver or copper with gold, of copper with silver, and likewise of tin or lead with copper. Tin is accompanied by lead to avoid spoiling its nature completely. All this, however, is done with a definite proportion by weight and not by chance. These admixtures, as I have told you in another place, are called in gold, carats, and in silver, leghe. This, in fact, means nothing but the association of one metal with another, indeed, a soiling of their purity and fineness, to which they have been brought with so much hard effort and labor. But now leaving this discussion, I shall tell you in the present book as briefly as I can, in order, first of the alloying of gold with silver or copper, and then of that of silver with copper.

Jan 1, 1942

By Guy R. Johnson

It is a common observation among those engaged in the ironbusiness, that the lower (i.e., the less graphitic) grades of pigiron show a rough face on the pig. As such irons are always low in silicon, the generally accepted belief is, that this rough face is due to the absence of silicon. Certain investigations, however, made by the writer on Embreville pig-iron, and extending over nearly a year's time, seem to indicate another cause, namely, the giving-off of included gases, particularly sulphurous oxide (SO2,). It is, of course, the tendency of such gases to rise through the iron, escaping into the air; and the more liquid the iron, and the longer it remains liquid, the greater the chance for such escape. The lower grades of iron, being always colder, tend to solidify early, and before the included gases can completely escape.

Jan 1, 1898

By H. L. Hollis

The paper read by Mr. George J. Snelus, in 1894, before the Iron and Steel Institute of Great Britain* so fully and ably described the Walrand-Leghisel process that there remains very little to add beyond recording some changes in practice, made since that date, and observed by the writer last summer, at several continental works, and the further fact that the process has now been for some time in successful operation in this country. Briefiy stated, the Walrand-LegBnisel process is an addition to the Bessemer operation, with the object of obtaining quiet and more fluid steel, and consequently sound castings and ingots. This is achieved by adding ferro-silicon at approximately the time of flame-drop in the ordinary Bessemer operation, and making an after-blow. The high calorific power of silicon is well known, and the rapid combustion of it immediately before

Jan 1, 1897

By Bertrand Robinson

Epitomized, there have been no innovations recently in crushing, but in grinding the trend has been towards larger units under more automatic control with an increased use of autogenous grinding. Crushing Portability of primary crushers to "follow the face" reduces material handling costs. The top size of crusher feed still establishes the size of the crusher; the feed opening should be 1 1/2 times the size of the largest feed. The maximum size of crusher product is 1 ½ times the open scale setting of a jaw or gyratory crusher. Practice dictates use of scalping screens ahead of any type of crusher when the feed contains 25% or more of product size. If required capacity is under 600-700 tph economics favor a double toggle crusher or an impactor. For larger capacities the gyratory crusher is favored.

Jan 1, 1970

Electrical requirements in surface mining can be divided into three categories: main substation, plant power, and pit distribution. A main substation may vary from a 500-kva transformer supplying 480-v power to motor-driven pumps and conveyors, to a 50,000-kva substation serving a large beneficiation plant or a large strip mining operation. Regard- less of size, it should be designed with the realization that a failure of the main substation will totally shut down the operation. Location of a main substation usually is a compromise between expense of running the incoming high-voltage transmission lines and the voltage drop of long secondary runs. Based on a geological survey for immediate and future areas of excavation, the main substation should be located as near to the center of load as possible.

Jan 10, 1967

By T. M. Drown, P. W. Shimer

The precipitation of phosphoric with titanic acid, by boiling an iron solution which had been reduced to the ferrous condition by sulpharetted hydrogen or sulphurous acid, was first noticed by E. H. Bogardus in 1874.* Since that time, as far as we are aware, not much has been published on the relation of these two acids to each other, and to silicic acid, in the ordinary course of analysis of iron ores. The following investigation may perhaps aid in clewing up some of the obscure points in the analysis of titaniferous ores. THE DETERMINATION OF PHOSPHORUS. From two to five grams of the finely powdered ore are weighed into a beaker and treated with about 50 c.c. of hydrochloric acid (sp. gr. 1.12), evaporated to dryness, and heated ih an air-bath for

Jan 1, 1882