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By Cherie M. Tilley

Dynatec Mining Contractors (Dynatec) entered into a contract with Barrick Goldstrike Mines (Barrick) to develop the deep gold ore reserves at the Meikle Mine north of Carlin, Nevada. The Ventilation and Production Shafts were started in early 1994 and were completed in December, 1995. The mine development and mine construction programs were completed in November, 1996. This paper describes the Meikle Mine development program.

Jan 1, 1997

By R. Codell, D. L. Hughson

The authors benchmarked the integrated finite-volume code MULTIFLO against the analytical solution of Philip et al. (1989) for cylindrical underground openings. They found that the numerical simulation of dripping threshold flux was consistently higher than the analytical solution for rectangular and unstructured grids. The magnitude of this error was proportional to the alpha parameter characterizing capillarity. This error may bias estimates of seepage into drifts for repository performance towards nonconservatism.

Jan 1, 2002

By Ernest Y. Baafi

The usual tasks performed by a mine store include .removal, replenishment, ordering and deletion of items and updating of stocks. A personal computer Mine Store Inventory Database System MIDSYS for monitoring stocks in such a store is presented. The system consists of series of relational databases developed in dBASE III+ environment. The system has three main modules comprising of a store management module, a display module and an employee-store operation module. The third module is useful in tracing movement of store goods. The MIDSYS is menu .driven with help functions at all levels.

Jan 1, 1992

By Raymond S. Shrode

Limestone and dolomite production is of significant importance to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Except for coal, more tons of limestone and dolomite are moved by the Railroad than any other mineral raw material. In the territory served by the Railroad, these materials are produced from every geologic system from Cambrian through Pennsylvanian. Some of the operations produce premium stone acceptable for high-specification steel and chemical use; at others, the stone finds application as aggregate materials and for cement manufacture. The Railroad is interested in seeing continued production from the operations it now serves, and in serving operations in a way mutually beneficial to the Railroad and to the producer. In working with producers, the importance of geologic knowledge in prospecting and development of deposits has been clearly recognized. In turn, knowledge of the economic and technological facets of production and consumption is needed for the geologists to participate with maximum efficiency.

Jan 1, 1966

By Weixing Wang, Zhenghe Xu

The paper applies the principles of the incompressible viscous fluid-flow to studying the movement of particles on shaking table and examines the separating process of tabling according to Bagnold's shearing theory. It is shown that, in addition to the periodic movement, the particles possess the uniform movement on the asymmetrical reciprocating table; the dilation of the particle layers on the table is periodically obtained; on the backward stroke, the particles in the bed are kept loose because the shearing dispersive pressure is of maximum: the differences between the light and heavy particles become greater when the length and frequency of the stroke are greater and the deck motion is more asymmetrical.

Jan 1, 1995

By Betty L. Gibbs

Mine planning and scheduling done with computer programs is possible only after extensive work has been completed to define the geologic extent of an ore body and an overall mine design. Mine planning methodology on computer can vary from computerized engineering tasks through systems which completely optimize a plan with little input from an engineer during the actual scheduling process. However, a strong emphasis is placed on producing practical mining sequences which may be "best" rather than "optimum". This section offers several viewpoints on the planning process using computers. Interactive planning and scheduling systems are attractive for many companies because they are easy for engineers to understand, and the results are acceptable. The engineer develops an open pit mine sequence by trial and error using interactive graphics. The results of this approach can usually be improved. A computer program can help an engineer make many trials in a short time period and provide a higher level of confidence that a "best" plan has been generated.

Jan 1, 1989

By A. I. Arol, I. Iwasaki

Clay minerals adversely affect the selective flocculation of iron ores. The effect of montmorillonite on a hematite-quartz mixture was studied. Montmorillonite, particularly in the presence of Ca++, caused indiscriminate dispersion of the pulp. Three possible mechanisms were postulated, namely, card-house structure formation, adsorption of dissolved species from montmorillonite, and montmorillonite- hematite interaction. It was determined that hetero- coagulation of montmorillonite on hematite was responsible for the behavior. Flocculation tests, montmorillonite abstraction tests, starch adsorption tests, zeta potential measurements, and surface analysis techniques were used to ascertain the montmorillonite-hematite interaction and to account for the manner in which it affected selective flocculation.

Jan 1, 1987

By P. E. Snoek, R. L. Gandhi, C. S. Miller

Slurry operations are an integral part of mineral processing. There is therefore reason to consider using slurry pipelines for long distance mineral transportation. This paper reviews the current state-of-the art of such systems and, in particular, the design factors which must be addressed. It also discusses the selection of major components such as pipe, pumps, valves and storage facilities. Finally, the major steps required to determine the economic feasibility of a slurry system are listed and the major advantages and disadvantages of slurry pipelines compared with other forms of land transport are summarized. SLURRY PIPELINES: GENERAL OVERVIEW Minerals Transported Long distance slurry pipelines have been successfully used for transporting coal, iron concentrate, copper concentrate, limestone and phosphate. Additionally, several tailings disposal pipelines of considerable size and length have been built, but these generally are not categorized as long distance commercial mineral transportation systems. Table 1 lists selected examples of commercial slurry pipelines.

Jan 1, 1986

By Chester R. Harris

With the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) on December 29, 1970 and the formation and growth of the OSHA Agency it spawned, public consciousness of occupational safety was raised. It became accepted that employees had the right to "a safe and healthful workplace". With the possibility of OSHA inspections, employ ers (particularly those with large workforces) began to give serious con sideration to engineering controls, safety programs, and training in a more uniform manner than previously.

Jan 1, 1991

By S. G. Haycocks, M. Karmis, C. Haycocks

Risk assessment is a primary factor in the decision to mine some near surface orebodies, such as limestone, by either surface or underground methods. Identification and quantification of risks demonstrate that environmental concerns are greater for surface operations than underground, and may include such factors as runoff, spoil piles, aesthetics, dust, and large site reclamation. Risk assessment also includes local public feeling towards surface and underground operations while considering the balance between environmental impacts and the economic effects of mining on the local community. A complete understanding of the risks involved permits a comprehensive and accurate comparison between the two mining alternatives.

Jan 1, 1992

By R. Hogg

The various sub-processes which, together, make up the unit operation of froth flotation all depend on the characteristics of the feed solids, the solution phase, the air bubbles and the mechanical/hydrodynamic action of the machine. Characterization is obviously necessary for evaluation and process control, but the relationships between characteristics and process response are often unclear. A model-based characterization scheme is proposed in which material and system characteristics are evaluated in the context of simplified models for the individual subprocesses. The general basis for such an approach is discussed using the process of particle attachment and the influence of mineral liberation as examples.

Jan 1, 1989

By R. L. Wolfrom, R. Hogg, S. Chander

A gravimetric method for measuring rates of capillary rise in powders was explored. Methods to improve reproducibility and consistency of the results were investigated. In particular, the effects of particle size and packing uniformity were addressed. Studies of the wetting behavior of both spherical glass beads and irregularly shaped synthetic graphite particles by various organic liquids were carried out. Standardized procedures for bed preparation will be described. The applicability of the Washburn equation for surface energy evaluation in such systems will be discussed. Key words: Wettability, Powders, Capillary rise, Surface chemistry

Jan 1, 2003

By Robert H. Merrill

The art of rock mechanics has been applied in various forms since early man first used caves for housing and fashioned rocks into weapons, tools, and utensils. The development of the science of rock mechanics has occurred in a slow but steady fashion due to the complexity of the materials, geometries, and loading conditions involved. It encompasses a great diversity of topics ranging from techniques for rock destruction to those required for rock strengthening or support, and as such enters daily into the life of the mining engineer. Although today rock mechanics can be confidently used in competent geologic structures, the degree of confidence diminishes as the structures become more complex and the number of geologic defects become more numerous. Even so, the principles still give a better estimate of the structural behavior of underground openings than ever before, and the persons responsible for design and control draw freely and often on the subject. For the most part, the civil engineer will spend more time and money on pre-design than the mining engi-

Jan 1, 1982

By Robert Cooke

This paper shows how technology developed to analyse stabilised slurries can be applied to paste flows. The rheological characterisation of paste mixtures using the generalised yield pseudoplastic rheological model is described. It is noted that the slump test does not provide a complete rheological characterisation of a paste. Methods for calculating pipeline pressure gradients for laminar and turbulent flow are presented. The minimum pressure gradient is an important consideration to ensure that solids do not settle on the pipe invert. Important points to be considered for a pipe loop test programme are noted. The usefulness of the pseudo shear diagram for scaling pipe loop test measurements is demonstrated. Issues to be considered for the design of paste reticulation systems are discussed.

Jan 1, 2001

By S. Tyson

The American Coal Ash Association, Inc. (ACAA) is an organization of producers and marketers of coal combustion byproducts. Since 1968, the goal of ACAA has been to gain recognition and acceptance of ccbs as an engineering material on par with competing virgin, processed and manufactured materials by advancing ccb uses that are technically sound, commercially competitive and environmentally safe. The use of ccbs is affected by local and regional factors including production rates, processing and handling costs, transportation costs, availability of competing materials, seasonal adjustments, and the experience of materials specifiers, design engineers, purchasing agents, contractors, legislators, regulators, and other professionals. An annual, survey of coal-burning electric utilities is conducted by ACAA to determine the quantities of ccbs produced and used in the USA. In 1993 approximately 88.5 million tons of ccbs were produced in the form of fly ash, bottom ash, boiler slag and byproduct from flue gas desulfurization (FGD). Approximately twenty-two percent of the combined production of these byproducts was used, while the remaining portion was deposited in disposal areas. The major markets for ccbs include cement and concrete products, structural fills, road-base layers, mineral filler in asphalt, grit for snow and ice control, blasting grit and roofing granules, grouting, coal mining applications, and waste solidification and stabilization.

Jan 1, 1995

By Michael Brittan

For several years, Independence Mining Co. (IMC) has routinely used oxygen fluid-bed roasting to pre-oxidize refractory gold ores ahead of conventional carbon-in-leach (CIL) processing. Oxygen serves jointly as the fluidizing medium and the combustion gas. This technology has proven to be reliable, environmentally sound and cost-effective. IMC is a subsidiary of the Minorco group. The company operates the Jerritt Canyon (a joint venture with FMC Gold) and Big Springs gold mines in the Independence mountain range north of Elko, NV. Ore bodies in the range contain characteristic refractory ore. It requires pre-oxidation ahead of conventional CIL processing. This article describes the technology developed specifically to treat these difficult ores.

Jan 1, 1995

By Florence Munter

This paper provides a discussion of the various federal and state laws governing water quality as related to mining operations. The specific laws addressed are the Clean Water Act, and the Arizona Mined Land Reclamation Act. Topics that will be addressed are mine water and process water discharges, storm water discharges, pollution prevention, dredge and fill, spill prevention control and countermeasure plan, and surface water protection. Proposed changes to the laws and regulations will be discussed. Compliance strategies will be suggested to prevent potential noncompliance and enforcement.

Jan 1, 1996

By A. Pavlides

The purpose of this study is to compare estimation methods for lignite reserves at the Amyndeo mine and to provide a map of the estimated thickness of the coal seams. The reserves are first estimated with the method of Voronoi diagrams, using a group of mirror points to close the polygons around the boundaries of the mine. The second estimation method is based on Ordinary Kriging using the Spartan variogram model. Finally, the reserves are estimated by the mean lignite thickness value of the drill-hole data Two data sets are investigated. The first one corresponds to an exhausted part of the mine. The derived reserves estimates are compared with the actual data obtained by the Public Power Corporation (PPC) to validate the analysis. The second data set extends over the entire mine, and it is used to derive an approximate estimate of the total lignite reserves. A geostatistical analysis of the total layer thickness is performed. An interpolated kriging map of the total thickness variation is produced accompanied by a map of the kriging uncertainty.

Jan 1, 2008

A Mineração da Trindade (Samitri) is a major Brazilian iron ore producer. Founded in 1939, privately owned Samitri operates six mines with a total production capacity of 14.5 Mt/a (16 million stpy). The mines are located in southeastern Brazil in the state of Minas Gerais. They are operating in the iron ore quadrangle, Brazil's primary iron ore-producing region. In addition to iron ore production, Samitri has the capability to produce 350 kt/a (386,000 stpy) of ferruginous manganese ore from two mines, also located in the iron ore quadrangle. Historically, about 70% of Samitri's production of lump ore, sinter feed and pellet feed is exported. Destinations include Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Germany, Trinidad and Tobago, China, Turkey and the United States. Alegria Mine In September 1989, Samitri started a new processing plant to treat itabirite, a low-grade iron ore. The goal of the plant was to produce sinter feed (coarse fraction) and pellet feed (fine fraction). Primary separation of sinter feed from pellet feed was accomplished with conventional vibrating screens making a 0.4-mm (40-mesh) cut. The screen oversize was stockpiled as sinter feed. The undersize was deslimed with hydrocyclones and upgraded by conventional froth flotation. Resulting pellet feed grades ranged from 3% to 3.5% Si02. A change in pellet feed requirements by Samarco Mineração SA, a Samitri subsidiary, called for Si02 levels below 1 % and increased production levels. Moreover, market demands called for a change in sinter feed size distributions. Unfortunately, lower pellet feed Si02 levels could not be achieved with the existing process. This was because of the presence of 35% +0.15 mm (+100 mesh) in flotation feed. Flowsheet development. Laboratory and pilot-plant studies conducted at Samitri's research facility found that to achieve lower Si02 levels, the +0.15 mm (+100 mesh) in flotation feed must be kept below 5% to 10%.

Jan 1, 1997

By Joachim H. Schubert, David G. Hulbert, Ian K. Craig, Roger G. D. Henning

This paper presents a stabilizing controller for flotation plants which uses a quasi-multivariable technique. The controller monitors all the levels in the plant, and by anticipating interactions between various parts of the plant, is able to stabilize the plant far more successfully than the normal plant control. Once stabilizing control has been achieved, optimization of the process becomes easier and more sustainable. An estimate of the improvement in metallurgical performance is made and a singular value analysis was conducted to verify that the multivariable algorithm will theoretically control better than a collection of individual PID loops. Metallurgical results are presented to show that the improvements are attainable in practice. Control by the Mintek algorithm was alternated with normal plant control, to show that the improvements are statistically significant.

Jan 1, 1995