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By Patrick Linzer, Lindsay Linzer

By its nature, seismology has been a data intensive field since the first digital computers were introduced in the 1950s. The first empirical models were developed in the same period and are still widely used today, for instance, the Gutenberg-Richter frequency-magnitude relationship (Gutenberg and Richter, 1956). Machine learning (ML) methods make it possible to redefine these empirical models using large datasets and examining considerably more parameters, where their significance to the problem being addressed is methodically and repeatably evaluated using robust statistical methods. In this paper we develop a simple logistic model for the short-term prediction of seismic events above a threshold magnitude from a mine’s event catalogue comprising more than a million events with 14 basic parameters from which a pool of over 830 derived parameters was developed, covering a series of 11 precursory time windows. The logistic model was fitted stepwise using SAS with α = 0.025 for both entry and acceptance. 25 variables from the pool met the acceptance criterion. The findings were surprising in that parameters a rock engineer or seismologist might have expected to be the most significant in the logistic model were not; instead, it was an increase in standard deviation of the immediately-prior seismic magnitudes that carried the most weight, followed by the average maximum source displacement and median apparent volume change. These findings make intuitive sense because the increasing scatter of the magnitude shows an increasing number of large events being recorded that could be indicative of instability in the system that could lead to large events. The model is rudimentary and enormous scope exists for more exploration in terms of data pre-processing, model types, and response variable definitions.

Apr 26, 2022

By Shamim A. Dar, & Samsuddin Khan, & K. F. Khan, Mohd Shuaib

The Late Paleocene–Middle Eocene phosphate nodules of Solan District of Himachal Pradesh belong to green facies of Subathu Formation of Sirmur group. Field observations indicate sporadic distribution of phosphatic nodules in the yellow brown to rusty brown, buff-colored bleach shales. Phosphatic nodules are dull earthy to dark grayish in color and break with sharp and conchoidal surfaces. Studies of phosphatic nodules using petrological microscope, X-ray diffractometry, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) attached with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) reveal that cryptocrystalline apatite (fluorapatite) is the dominant phosphate mineral. Silt sized silica is the dominant gangue, whereas pyrite and muscovite are present as minor gangue. The phosphate minerals occur as oolites, pellets, and cryptocrystalline apatite in the groundmass. Silica veins form a network replacing the original phosphatic matrix. Brown to brownish black color may be attributed by the organic matter in the phosphatic nodules. Completely phosphatized radiolaria and partially pyritized planktonic foraminifera are observed. There is corroboration of organic matter in the form of microbial filaments in the groundmass of apatite. The findings in the present investigation indicate that the different forms of the minerals, their texture, and distribution in the phosphatic nodules might be due to environmental vicissitudes in oxidizing to reducing conditions followed by replacement processes. Presence of microbial filaments may be due to the active role of microorganisms during the formation of these phosphatic nodules.

By S. G. Malghan

This paper describes uses of sodium sulfide in the flotation of oxide and sulfide minerals of copper, lead, and zinc. The activation and depression effects of sodium sulfide are of particular importance because of their applications with oxidized lead and copper ores. In spite of its industrial importance; however, the nature of the heterogenious reactions between sulfide ions in solution and the surface of oxidized minerals has not been fully understood. Hence, proposed mechanisms of the sulfide action in flotation, methods of measuring and monitoring of sodium sulfide in flotation pulps, and variables influencing the sulfide addition are analyzed. A review of recent studies shows that sodium sulfide addition to flotation pulps can be monitored and hence the optimum dosage controlled using the platinum and/or sulfide specific ion electrodes. The use of these electrodes for improved reproducibility of bench-scale experimental data and plant implementation of laboratory results is described.

Jan 1, 1985

By Douglas R. Cook

Our present and future needs for base and previous metals are not satisfied by the present rate of new viable discoveries. This deficiency can be met by increasing the number of competent exploration organizations and by doing a more effective job of prospecting. My principal purpose is to show that new discoveries can be increased by improving the use of exploration techniques in a concept-oriented exploration program. Exploration techniques are defined and classified. The effectiveness of many exploration groups can be improved by better definition of objectives and thorough planning of the exploration program. The role of objectives, planning, and the use of techniques are discussed within the scope of the exploration framework. Common pitfalls in the use of exploration data are identified such as: inconsistency of geologic measurements, negative use of data, indiscriminate use of geo-surveys, collection of irrelevant information, and the unrealistic desire for exploration panaceas. Suggestions for improving the use of techniques include the use of multiple-working hypotheses, improvements in the quality of exploration data, use of geology in the selection, planning and interpretation of geochemical and geophysical surveys, and the recognition of variables and limitations affecting the interpretation of exploration data. The critical role of geologic mapping by Federal and State agencies is mentioned for satisfying the continual exploration demand for better geologic maps and filling many gaps that currently exist. The importance of imaginative and qualified exploration personnel is discussed as well as the maximum utilization of their exploration creativity. The problem of integrating field studies, research and training at universities and research institutions is identified. The need for high-quality research in economic geology is emphasized especially the importance of reducing the steadily increasing gap between basic and applied research.

Jan 1, 1968

By B. F. Dickerson

STRATEGIC METALS! Recently, this money accented cry has been heard in such diverse locales as Mining company boardrooms, Banker's offices, Stockbroker's quarters, Swindler's dens and Congressional committee rooms. (In some cases, these locales are one and the same). Is the strategic metals rush for real? Should it be? Our paper attempts to give a very generalized view of the subject for a few metals, points to a few potential, but generally overlooked sources of these metals, and offers conclusions based on our studies.

Jan 1, 1981

By K. M. O’Connor

Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) is a pulse testing technique developed by the telecommunications and power industry for use in locating breaks in cables. Variations of this principle have been utilized in applications pertinent to closure and reclamation of coal operations. This paper focuses on applications of TDR technology in the mining industry including monitoring of slope movement, abandoned mine subsidence, ground water levels and subsurface LNAPLs, landfill cover performance, and consolidation of mine tailings. TDR technology has been particularly effective for remote automated monitoring, and alarm systems have been implemented for monitoring subsidence.

Jan 1, 2003

By Daniel A. Payne

For many years underground mining in the Sydney Coalfield has suffered from the effects of high horizontal stresses. It is only in the last 15 years that they have come to be recognized, understood, predicted and even avoided. This paper relates experiences in three coal mines in three different seams in the Sydney Coalfield. The effect of the direction of the principal horizontal stress on the direction of drivage of gate roads, access roadways and longwalls is described. Results of a monitoring program to measure the change of magnitude and direction of the principal horizontal stress in the gate roads as a result of longwall mining are also presented as well as the effect of the direction of principal horizontal stress on the shape of sandstone/gas outburst cavities.

Jan 1, 1998

By Shanming He, Jinliang Wang, Xiaoming Wang, Chunfa Liao

Large amounts of manganese-rich slag were generated from smelting low-grade manganese ore containing high iron and high phosphorus in electric furnace or blast furnace, which contain 25–40 mass% Mn. This paper describes an efficient hydrometallurgical process for the utilization of high manganese slag instead of conventional usage of pyrometallurgical route for manganese recovery. Pressure acid leaching of manganese-rich slag using air as pressurized gas is studied systematically. The effects of mass ratio of manganese-rich slag to pyrite, concentration of sulfuric acid, leaching temperature, partial air pressure, leaching time, and liquid-solid (L/S) ratio on the separation of manganese with other main impurity components were investigated comprehensively. Under the following optimal process conditions, weight of manganese-rich slag powder,100 g; mass ratio of manganese-rich slag to pyrite, 20:1; sulfuric acid concentration of 140 g/L; air pressure of 0.6 MPa; leaching temperature of 140 °C; leaching time of 1 h; L/S of 7:1; ore size of 75–80 μm; and stirring rate of 600 rpm, the extraction rate of Mn reached 94%, and the dissolution percentage of Si, Al, and Fe are as low as 2%, 6%, and 10%, respectively. The leaching slurry presented a good solid-liquid separation characteristic. The silicic acid formed during sulfuric acid leaching manganese silicates was converted to filterable dehydrated SiO2 particles which precipitated in the residue under the condition of higher temperature with higher pressure. The effect of adding pyrite may be to reduced iron ions and decreased the output of iron hydroxide colloid and also reduced MnO2 to manganese sulfate in sulfuric acid leaching. Thus the formation possibility of colloid such as silica gel and iron hydroxide was decreased, and higher yield of manganese sulfate could be achieved.

By Simon E. Rodriguez

This paper presents sulfur isotope data obtained for the deposits and country rocks of the Bailadores and Aroa Mining District, Venezuela. The study is a part of an extensive geochemical investigation of the mineralized belts that has as their aim the elucidation of the genesis of ores. The Bailadores deposits are located at about 600 Km. west-southwest of Caracas, or about 10 Km. southeast of the Town of Bailadores, Merida State (Fig. 1). The mine concession is held by the Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons (De Lima I, De Lima II and La Cascade areas). In a straight distance the mine is about 90 Km. southwest of Merida, the capital of Mérida State. From Mérida to Bailadores, through La Victoria and Tovar, it takes 3 hour by car. From Bailadores to the mine site it is about 40 minutes by jeep. The Aroa deposits are located at 4 Km. east of Aroa Village, Yaracuy State, about 220 Km. west of Caracas. It is 83 Km. from San Felipe, the capital of Yaracuy State to the mine (Fig.2). The mine is about 600 m above sea level, situated on the northern foot of the E-W trending Andes. The topography of the mine are shows a mature stage and is somewhat rugged. As the climate is warm and humid, the area is thicky covered with jungle.

Jan 1, 1974

By N. Kuroda

A realistic simulation model has been used for designing longwall mining, especially for solving operational problems. This paper describes background, development, validation and some applications of the simulation model for mining people who are unfamiliar with O.R. or computer technique, as a simple planning tool. The following items were established: logical analysis and algorithmic design for practical longwall mining, structure of hypothesis behavioral organism, input parameters, using practical knowledge and operational statistics of the mechanized longwall system experienced for many years.

Jan 1, 1982

By J. C. Draper

This subject was introduced last April in a paper presented in Birmingham, Alabama, by James E. Elkin, General Superintendent of Duquesne's Coal Department. This paper will cover some of the same data and in addition it will update and further describe our experience. Our Portal No. 3 was started in June 1965 with battery tractor-trailer face haulage. This mine is operating in the Sewickley seam in Dunkard Township, Greene County, in Southwestern Pennsylvania as shown on Fig. 1. The Warwick group of mines fronts on the Monongahela River and extends westward for some ten miles as shown on Fig. 2.

Jan 1, 1968

By A. Acar, E. T. Tuzcu, Y. O. Vural

"In order to sustain the operations in chromite processing plants, due to concentrate selling cost, plants are in need of optimization in terms of capacity and recovery increase. In this study, DAMA Engineering carried out a methodological study for the purpose after a detailed sampling campaign in a plant which is situated in one the main chromite zones in Turkey; 1 The current status of the plant was investigated quantitatively with the bottlenecks, Plant overall efficiency in terms of recovery, Efficiencies of the particular equipment (mill, screen, gravity circuit), 2 A new circuit was proposed with the available equipment, 3 The new circuit that is product of modeling and experimental effort, was evaluated quantitatively as if it is a running plant, After 4-5 months continuous effort, the capacity of the plant was almost doubled (37 tph to 70 tph) and the plant overall recovery was increased from 48% to 63% by grinding adjustments and additional shaking tables theoretically. It was shown that the plant may move into profit with the minimum amount investment using readily available system. INTRODUCTION TO THE CURRENT PLANT The objective of the study is to increase the capacity and recovery of the chromite plant owned by Kurmel Group, Akmetal Inc. The complete study is given elsewhere (DAMA, 2016). The plant is situated in one of the main chromite zones in Turkey; Aladag. The current capacity of the plant is around 35 tph and the overall recovery declared by plant engineer is around 47 %. The chromite plant mainly has 3 units; crushing, grinding and gravitational circuits. The crushing circuit has 3 stages; a jaw crusher, a secondary cone crusher and a tertiary cone crusher operating in closed circuit with a vibrating screen with the aperture size of 15mm. In grinding circuit, a rod mill (2.44 6m x 3.6) and a ball mill (2.13 x 2.3m) are used for primary and secondary grinding, respectively. Derrick screens are used for the size separation. Additionally, for the size classification of the system, hydrosizers are used and each size fraction is sent to the shaking table sets. The middling product of the tables is subjected to re-grinding with a ball mill with the dimensions of 2.1 x 2.9 m. The capacity and the recovery are affected by several bottle necks; hydrosizers’ pure classification, primary/secondary mill power vs capacity problems, re-grinding product’s high slime content and so on. These combined factors made the plant to run in low recovery and capacity. Hence, DAMA was asked to make a study to investigate current status of the plant and propose a new solution to increase capacity and recovery of the plant. The conceptual flowsheet of the circuit is given in Figure 1 below."

Jan 1, 2017

By Wendell R. Peters

Shallow underground voids resulting from early coal mining and other resource recovery activities over the past several decades are now being recognized as a significant cause of ground subsidence problems. Uncertain knowledge of abandoned coal mines also imposes potential hazards in current mining operations since water inundation or the release of methane gas is a serious hazard when mine excavation operations break into an abandoned mine. Requirements for detecting and mapping subversive man-made tunnels in previous work has led to the development of a surface- operated automatic earth resistivity survey system and associated computer data processing system for military applications. Field demonstration tests of this system have resulted in successful detection of tunnels at depth-to- diameter ratios greater than ten to one. Under the sponsorship of the Bureau of Mines, a similar high-resolution earth resistivity system was designed and constructed for use as a potential means of detecting coal mine workings. The hardware and software aspects of the new system are described together with applications of the method to the survey and mapping of abandoned coal mine workings. Field tests are presented showing the detection of both air-filled and water-filled mine workings.

Jan 1, 1981

By Jan Wolski

Increasing interest in the Bucket Wheel Excavator (BWE) technology calls for a universally understandable definition of suitable performance factors which would reflect the unique features of this technology. The importance of properly designed and calculated performance factors for the BWE systems cannot be overemphasised. They are used by all levels of management in any mining organization for a wide variety of purposes, in particular for budgeting, for selecting new equipment, for monitoring current equipment and for comparison with other operations.

Jan 1, 1984

By Y. B. He

The effect of the overflow to underflow (O/U) flowrate ratio of a dense medium cyclone on its performance is tested utilizing a 6" dense medium cyclone and density tracers. The results show that the O/U flowrate ratio is clearly correlated with the separation cut point D50, the separation efficiency Ep, the density differential 0, and short circuiting of the cyclone. Within certain limits, a higher O/U ratio results in a better separation efficiency, a higher D50 and an increased density differential. A lower O/U ratio, on the other hand, reduces the cut point shift and density differential. The phenomenon of short circuiting to the underflow, which is especially significant for fine particles, is directly connected with an excessively low O/U ratio.

Jan 1, 1992

By P. J. Ryan

Phelps Dodge’s Candelaria copper-gold mine is located 20 km (12miles) south of Copiapó in northern Chile’s Atacama province (Region III) (Fig. 1). The Candelaria Mine is about 800 km (500miles) north of Santiago and 75 km (47 miles) east of the Pacific Ocean. Its elevation is 600 m (1,970 ft) above sea level. The Copiapó River Valley is 6 km (4 miles) northeast of the mine site. It is the only major source of water in this arid region. The average rainfall is 14mm/a (0.5 in./year). During 1995, the mine produced 521.4 kt (574,800 st) of copper concentrate containing 150 kt (165,000 st) of salable copper and 3 t (98,800 oz) of gold. The 1995 unit cash cost was less than 50 cents/lb of copper. This makes Candelaria one the world’s lowest cost copper producers.

Jan 1, 1996

By E. C. Skinner

As the program says -we'll he talking about the expectations of the Management of an Industrial Mineral enterprise relative to the activities of geologists engaged in that enterprise. Industrial Minerals is such a large industry both in tons produced and in value of product -and of such diversity and complexity of participating enterprises, minerals and products that I doubt if anyone person can speak for the entire industry as to the expectations of management with respect to the geologist. I'm sure there are major differences in emphasis between segments of management as to the relative importance of the different aspects of the geologists' role in the scheme of things. However, we will try to generalize concerning what we consider to be important factors and to be more specific perhaps of some of the factors with which we have had direct assessable experience.

Jan 1, 1972

Silver bearing bulk sulfide concentrates from several Peruvian mines were autoclaved in a 19 liter (five gallon) laboratory autoclave in Lima, Peru. Cyanidation of autoclaved concentrates following a hot lime jarosite destruction step extracted over 98 percent of the silver and over 95 percent of the gold. Autoclave operating parameters such as time, temperature, pulp density and autoclaved solids recycle were investigated and reaction rates determined. The problems of excessive heat generation, silver solubility during autoclaving, and formation of pellets containing unreacted sulfides were addressed. The data presented will be used to design a continuous autoclave pilot plant to pro-vide reliable scale up data for a 50 -100 ton per day facility.

Jan 1, 1992

By J. Y. Kim

Lead ions originating from galena during processing of complex sulphide ores migrate to "cover" the surface of sphalerite and iron sulphide mineral particles, and cause poor selectivity in differential flotation. Generally in sulphide ore processing, the lead-activated minerals float in the Cu/Pb rougher circuit. Subsequently, surface lead complicates the zinc flotation circuit by lowering the concentrate grade due to the co-flotation of lead-activated iron sulphide minerals. The effect of lead in the differential flotation of sphalerite from Cu-Pb-Zn and Pb-Zn ores is discussed. Plant and laboratory test data are interpreted by determining the surface composition of individual grains of sphalerite and iron sulphide particles using two surface analytical techniques, Laser Ionization Mass Spectrometer (LIMS) and Time of Flight-Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (TOF-SIMS). Cationic and anionic species on the surface were analyzed to elucidate the phenomena.

Jan 1, 1995

By C. L. Pillar

In the capitalistic system the success of a mining enterprise is measured by the rate of return on the investment and the speed by which its redemption is achieved. Exploration in search of ore deposits often results in the emergence of the lean orebody which does not meet basic company requisites. At this point a decision must be made whether to place the orebody into production or postpone production pending more favourable market conditions. The wisdom of this decision, borne out by future results, demonstrates the quality of a company's management and is instrumental in the degree of financial success it achieves. The project feasibility report must show a rate of return on the capital invested that is attractive to the company, plus its full redemption in the desired period of time, in order to bring the property into production on a sound economic basis. Mining companies have demonstrated their ability to bring the profitability of a marginal property from a point that says "no go" to a point of "go" by substantial reduction of expenditure without adversely affecting production rate or cost. Here is where the real challenge exists for today's mining engineers and plant designers; they will have to develop better ideas and concepts: ideas that will still allow maximum production at reduced capital expenditure, This is the sound way marginal orebodies can be brought into production without inflationary increases in the price of their product.

Jan 1, 1969