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By Tiago Luis Anderson dos Santos Morais1 Oliveira

Em função da crise energética e do aquecimento global, faz-se necessário a utilização de novas fontes de energia como uso sustentável da matriz energética disponível. Do exposto, a CEMIG GT, a ONDATEC e a Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, investiram em um projeto no âmbito do Programa (P&D) Cemig/Aneel para geração de energia. O objetivo deste trabalho foi efetuar a avaliação do potencial energético dos efluentes gasosos (gases não condensáveis – GNC) e líquidos (Gases Condensáveis) de uma planta de pirólise de biomassa via micro-ondas para a produção de carvão vegetal. Para tanto, a ONDATEC construiu uma unidade piloto de produção de carvão vegetal (pirólise) por micro-ondas com capacidade de produção de 150 kg por hora. O processo de pirólise ocorreu em modo contínuo e em dois estágios, a secagem da biomassa e a pirólise propriamente dita, com a produção de carvão vegetal, gás de pirólise (GNC) e bio-óleo (GC). Em face dos resultados obtidos para o GC e o GNC, foi verificado um potencial de geração de 2,24 MWh de energia elétrica por tonelada de carvão produzido, que pode ser uma boa alternativa para desonerar a cadeia produtiva do carvão vegetal e do ferro gusa.

Sep 25, 2017

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is traditionally used in plant operation to separate feldspars from quartz. It acts during the conditioning step as a pH regulator and an activating agent providing an excellent selectivity. However, a corrosive chemical environment and the ecological impacts from the potential fluoride ion contamination are limiting factors to use this chemical agent at an industrial scale. Investigations of the amine-feldspar interactions in the absence and presence of non-linear long-chain alcohols were carried out on two ore samples. The presence of alcohol molecules led to form a closed packed layer only on the surface of feldspars. The highest order and packing at the feldspar surface were observed with a particular alkyl chain structure as Guerbert alcohols. A new flotation process was developed and tested at both lab and pilot scales on different feldspar ores. The Guerbert alcohols allow to perform a feldspar concentrate with very low content in quartz (2.3-3.5 %) and feldspars recovery from 78 to 81 % while the aliphatic isoalcohols show a more higher recovery level (88-89 %). New HF-free process is strongly dependent on the pH range (1.7-2.5) and sulphuric acid consumption during conditioning steps. Optimal amine/alcohol weight ratio is ranged between 0.8 and 1.0. The values below 0.8 decrease strongly the flotation selectivity and the quartz recovery within the feldspar concentrates is higher than that occurs with HF.

Sep 1, 2012

By Sara J. Davenport, Genevieve Morgis, J. J. Forbes

"This circular is part III of a series of papers reviewing the literature on air conditioning in mines, with particular reference to the health, safety, and efficiency of miners.4/ It deals with theoretical and practical methods of conditioning air in mines to correct or alleviate the health hazards described in parts I and II and discusses the results attained by some of the systems now in use in various-parts of the world.The principal conditions to be corrected or alleviated are the chemical qualities of mine air (especially when contaminated with toxic and noxious gases and dusts) and the physical qualities (abnormal mine temperatures and humidities) that emanate from various sources in underground workings. Air motion and barometric pressure are physical qualities also to be considered.From the standpoint of health, knowledge of the composition of the air, or atmosphere, in mines and other underground operations is of prime importance. Suitable control measures or plans of procedure to combat or eliminate the hazards from contaminants must be based upon accurate information obtained by the selection and use of proper methods of sampling and analyzing mine atmospheres (1).5/Conditioning air is one of the most essential factors to be considered in any underground workings, not only from the standpoint of health and safety but also with regard to efficiency and productivity. Without modern air-conditioning, the war's great demand upon the copper mines could hardly have been met, as the mechanical refrigeration cooled off sweltering holes in less than a month, whereas in the past it was standard practice to blow air through the tunnels for 3 years or so until they were cooled.This paper discusses methods of determining the chemical and physical qualities of mine air and their control. Briefly, the following points are presented:"

Oct 1, 1949

By M. Lonoff

Byproducts are more important to the copper mining companies than to the copper market. Copper ores frequently contain gold, silver, molybdenum, lead, zinc, and cobalt. With the increase in the prices of these metals copper mining has become more profitable. If byproduct prices remain high, additional firms will be attracted to the copper industry; the increased supply of copper will reduce the long-run copper price. However, this is unlikely to happen because the markets for the copper byproducts, especially molybdenum and cobalt, are small. Increased recovery from copper and other sources will depress the prices of these byproducts before the copper price is significantly affected. Should byproduct prices remain high, the copper market will both settle at a lower long-run price and be more unstable in the short run. Since changes in the copper price do not affect the entire earnings of a multi-metal mine, the copper price must fall further before such mines reduce output in the short run. Higher byproduct revenues will make copper supply less responsive to copper prices; shifts in copper demand will result in greater copper price fluctuations in the short run than they did before.

Jan 1, 1984

By T. Kontos

Rogers Group, Inc., is the nation's largest privately held aggregates producer (primarily producing crushed limestone and secondarily sand & gravel) and a major regional asphalt paving construction contractor. The company also has interests in building supplies and coal. Facilities are concentrated in five states in the central U.S. (Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama), with an additional location in Southwestern Virginia. At the request of its then CEO and with support from the company's ownership, Rogers embarked on a strategic planning program in late 1986 by retaining an outside management consulting firm. The ultimate goal of this program was to develop a self-sustaining strategic planning process to inject a strategic dimension into every manager's business thinking and to improve company performance. Since then, Rogers has internalized the outside consultants' strategic planning framework --initially, using it wholesale, and later, greatly streamlining and tailoring both the planning process and product to meet the specific needs of the company. Implementation of strategies developed from strategic planning has resulted in significant improvements throughout the organization. The latest product of the strategic planning effort is a company-wide (or, "corporate") strategic plan that carries the theme of "Market Leadership through Excellence". This paper provides a case study of successful corporate strategic planning by examining the evolution of strategic planning at Rogers and by summarizing the key elements of a sound planning process and product.

Jan 1, 1994

By Anthony A. Zoobkoff

Gotcha! ? What Did I Just Agree To? ? You can?t repeat or use anything you heard. ? Did you agree before you knew what you were going to be given, told or shown? ? If you knew what you were to be given, told or shown, would you have still agreed?

May 1, 2013

By J W. Dong, Y M. Li, J L. Tian, Z H. Jiang

Electroslag remelting is widely used to produce various special steels, mainly because of its ability to provide high cleanliness and excellent homogeneity of ingot. Undoubtedly an optimal slag plays a key role in removing inclusions and enhancing the mechanical properties of a specific special steel. In order to improve the metallurgical performance of the slag in electroslag refining of die steel, a variety of slags have already been developed using traditional trial-and-error methods. Nonetheless, these slags may not be inherently optimal for the specific requirements of actual die steel refining processes. In this work, we have designed a CaF2-CaO-Al2O3-SiO2-MgO quinary slag system using genetic algorithms method aiming to remove the existing large size inclusions (D and Ds type) in high quality die steel. The comprehensive effects of five components (CaF2, CaO, Al2O3, SiO2 and MgO) were studied based on existing fundamental theory. The slag composition was screened considering the parameters such as melting point, electrical conductivity, calcium ion concentration, and appropriate viscosity etc. Furthermore, the candidate optimal slag was applied in the industrial production of die steel by electroslag remelting method. The detection results indicate that majority large inclusions (D and Ds type) have been successfully removed, showing significant advantage to traditional slags. This result has demonstrated the genetic method to be efficient and reliable. In addition, depending on the personalised demand of other steel and alloys, this method allows for the adjustment of the screening frameworks and processes to develop the candidate optimal slags. This method has not been reported previously in the field of electroslag composition design, and compared with the traditional trial-and-error method, the new method will save a lot of time and experimental costs.

Jun 19, 2024

By Thomas P. Battle

Modern-day direct reduction of iron first developed as a small-scale, low capital and operating cost alternative to the blast furnace. Since commercialization of continuous DR technology in the late 1960s, the market for the products of direct reduction has grown to more than 74 million tonnes in 2012. The initial advantages of DR plants over BF facilities have grown over the years, for several reasons, including the increased size of DR modules, lower energy and emissions (particularly CO2), along with the flexibility to use a number of different reductants. The development of DR technology over the past forty years will be emphasized in this presentation, including recent developments that allow for even more direct sustainability comparisons with the iron blast furnace – and even combine the two technologies for improved synergies. Also briefly discussed will be the possibilities of using direct reduction for non-ferrous ores.

Jan 1, 2014

By Jamal Rostami, Manso Deen Sesay, Sydney Slouka, HUGH MILLER, Anshuman Mohanty, Midhat Sajad, Kun Zhang

The lack of progress in controlling pulmonary diseases such as pneumoconiosis cases in recent years necessitates additional studies on dust generation and the characterization of airborne dust. Studies are underway by a NIOSH-sponsored project to observe the characteristics of the dust generated by pick cutters under various wear levels. This research performed a full-scale linear-cutting-test matrix on eight coal samples with various bit penetrations, spacing, and wear conditions. The specific energy and resulting PSD (particle size distribution) of airborne dust and material left at the cutting surface were measured and analyzed. The dust concentration was determined using the NMAM (NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods) 0600 method. For fines, the PSD was characterized using Laser Diffraction, measuring percent channel and aerodynamic diameter, while Imagej, a virtual sieving application, was used for larger particles. The results show that for a new bit, as the cutting depth and spacing increase, the specific energy and dust generation decrease. The size and shape of the dust particles have been analyzed, and the observed trends are discussed in this paper.

Feb 1, 2025

By B Vietnieks, N Widmer, L White, E Tata, J Natukunda, D C. Ilouga, J P. Tyler

The Republic of Uganda aims to exploit its’ significant, un-developed iron ore resources to supply the required raw material for developing its’ iron and steel industry across all the stages of the supply chain. Large prospects of iron ore exists in Uganda in the eastern (Tororo) regions and southwestern (Kisoro-Kabale) regions of the country. The Kisoro-Kabale iron ore projects covers mineralisation in hematitic banded iron formation (itabirite) in the north-eastern Congo-Tanzania Craton; covering ten Iron ore prospects. The prospects include Kamena, Karukara, Nyamiringa, Kyanyamuzinda, Rugando, Katagata, Rwengongo, Kijuguta, Kihumuro and Katuna. High-grade hematite ore prospects in south-western Uganda have known grades ranging from 55 per cent to 68 per cent iron ore content with an exploration target estimated at over 500 million tonne (Mt). Small scale production of iron ore from the south-western regions provide raw material to existing steelmaking and direct reduction iron ore plants located in the Jinja and Iganga districts of eastern Uganda. Large quantities of iron ore and other steelmaking raw material, however, are required to be imported into Uganda due to the limited exploration and development of their own iron ore mining operations. A joint collaboration between the European Union (EU), the Department of the Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM), Ugandan Ministry of Mines in partnership with Australian drilling and mining consultancies, ADT Africa and Kalem Group as a EU funded project was undertaken during November 2022 and September 2023. Exploration and evaluation of the ten iron ore prospects in south-western Uganda was undertaken through geological mapping, drilling, assaying, and technical studies with the view to attract investment for the development of Uganda iron ore mining and steelmaking industry. The collaboration developed mineral exploration policy, guidelines and standards, an iron ore exploration manual, a geological data management policy, and to support the sustainable development of iron ore mining in Uganda through building the capacity of local Ugandan geology and mining personnel through the transfer of knowledge and expertise from experienced iron ore experts. The quantification of these resources is an important first step in assessing their economic potential and attracting mining investors. This paper presents an overview of the investigation program and the preliminary results as an important first step in attracting mining investors to this exciting new iron ore province.

Sep 18, 2023

By C. R. Fast

In order to evaluate the ability of a Hydrafrac treatment to effect a sustained increase in well production, data were accumulated on the first 65 wells in 26 fields treated by Stano-lind. Since these data were obtained from such a large number of fields, it is felt that individual well or reservoir characteristics do not affect the overall picture, as might be the case if the study were made in one field or one group of wells in a field. These data are tabulated in Table I and plotted on Figs. 1 and 2. An analysis of Fig. 1 shows that at the end of six months, 75 per cent, or 45, of 60 wells on which data were available showed a sustained production increase. At the end of two years, data were available on 25 wells. Of these, 15 wells, or 60 per cent, showed a sustained production increase. At the end of three years, 55 per cent, or 10, of 18 wells had a production rate greater at that time than before Hydrafrac treatment. The lack of information on additional wells at the end of the third year is primarily a result of the small number of treatments conducted in the early stages of field application

Jan 1, 1952

By M. Steyn

This article captures the intrinsic differences of thermal coal products, their utilization and their substitution characteristics. South Africa produces approximately 245 million tonnes of coal annually. Eskom consumes 46% (approximately 112 million tonnes), 26% (approximately 65 million tonnes) is exported, and SASOL Synthetic Fuels consumes 18% (approximately 44 million tonnes) and a further 9% (approximately 22 million tonnes) is consumed by domestic users in various different industries. Marketing theory contributes significantly to understanding the importance of technical product and quality appreciation and comprehension, encompassing elements of price, distribution, and promotion. Coal product specification is determined by the inherent geology of a resource and the number of complex actions to market the product to a specific consuming market. Sampling, analyses, beneficiation application, and an array of parameters contribute to matching thermal coal products to the value-in-use it provides to the different markets and its consuming industries. Coal producer shave come under increased scrutiny since South Africa has been experiencing electricity shortages since early 2008. General misunderstandings were declared on public forums and in the media by both legislators and the South African public since a perception developed that South African coal producers are exporting coal that could be utilized by Eskom.

Jan 1, 2010

By Richard Dawson

Presentation Outline? Northeast BC Coal Fields Overview and History ?New mines and projects in development ?Design Issues for steeply dipping footwall slopes ?Design issues for angle-of-repose waste rock dumps

May 1, 2006

By Robert B. Crookston

This paper presents a resume and status report: of mining technology appropriate to commercial oil shale development in the United States today. The nature and extent of oil shale in Colorado and Utah are discussed. A look at most of the prominent activities now underway emphasizes the questions "where are we now?" and "where are we going?" Various alternate mining methods are reviewed and a bibliography of oil shale mining is included.

Jan 1, 1980

By G Richmond, J R. Glen

Western Metals Mt Gordon Operation is a copper mine and processing plant situated 120 kilometres north of Mt Isa. The unique Mt Gordon copper process utilises a whole of ore acid/ferric pressure leach to produce copper cathode from the Esperanza massive sulfide copper orebody. Esperanza ore contains chalcocite, covellite and minor chalcopyrite hosted in a massive pyrite matrix. These ore stocks will be depleted in late 2003. Recently the process circuit has been upgraded to allow the treatment of lower grade Mammoth ores. These include the installation of a ball mill to complement the existing SAG mill, a single stage rougher flotation circuit and a tailings thickener. The leach bleed neutralisation plant was also upgraded at this time. Commissioning of these new circuits occurred in March 2003 and involved all the challenges of ensuring current production levels were successfully maintained while new process steps were incorporated into the whole circuit. This paper explains the background flow sheet of the patented Mt Gordon process and the reasoning behind the enhancements required for an already successful copper leaching circuit. Included are discussion of the influences of the new ores on individual process components such as comminution, leach chemistry and solid/liquid separation. Longer term ore processing options are also discussed.

Jan 1, 2003

This paper outlines the manner in which legislative control for tunnelling and allied operations has evolved, detailing Victorian experience. It examines the concept of mine managers as it relates to the industry and attemps to illustrate its benefits. The Victorian experience in relation to fatal and serious accidents is examined in detail, particularly in the allied art of trenching and examines the Krings system of trench lining support which is hoped will catalyse an increase of engineering expertise in this area. The paper concludes by demonstrating that safety awareness is not incompatible with production efficiency or economic viability.

Jan 1, 1981

By Hernan Fernandez, Khalid Saif F S Al- Khayareen, Volkan Salepciler, Jacek B. Stypulkowski

Wakrah and Wukair Drainage Tunnel, WWDT is 13 km long with a 4.5 m ID sewer water tunnel about 50 to 60 m below ground surface. Integral to the project are several adits with provisions for future connections as well as four work shafts, four intermediate access shafts, ancillary hydraulic structures, and an Odor Control Facility. The shaft depths range from 50 to 60 m. The project is constructed in aggressive ground with aggressive ground water. The construction activities require years of pumping and disposal of the ground water during tunneling operations as well as construction of permanent structures in shafts. Grouting of the corrosive rock mass in corrosive groundwater for the WWDT has been described in detail.

Jun 23, 2024

By Jorge Luis Barreto

A CBMM aplicou aços microligados ao nióbio de elevada resistência mecânica em caminhões basculantes que operam nas suas instalações de Araxá, com o objetivo de reduzir o peso das caçambas e obter maior desempenho com aumento da carga transportada, redução do consumo de combustível bem como das emissões de CO2. Também tinha o objetivo de eliminar as trincas de fadiga que ocorriam sobre os chassis desses equipamentos. Os caminhões já operam há 12 meses e o objetivo desse trabalho é apresentar os resultados obtidos até o momento. Com a aplicação dos aços de elevada resistência, foi possível desenvolver um novo desenho para sua estrutura e componentes. Houve uma redução de 25% da massa da caçamba o que proporcionou um aumento médio de carga transportada de 40,0t para 41,1t ou 2,7% por viagem, trazendo até o momento, economia de 3,00% no custo total de transporte e redução de consumo de combustível de 8,00%. Não houve trincas ou deformações no sobre chassis que apoiam as caçambas.

Aug 8, 2018

By Gillies A. D S, Supriyadi

The landed cost of coal to the international customer is a major parameter which determines market competitiveness. Rail, port and shipping charges represent 30 to 50 per cent of landed costs for Australian mines selling to Asia. This prop

Jan 1, 1994

By J. P. Ulery

As a result of several recent methane/dust ignitions in surface auger and highwall mines, the U.S. Bureau of Mines investigated the occurrence of methane gas at these operations. Three mine sites were visited in western Kentucky and one in western Pennsylvania to collect run-of-mine coal samples for gas content determination using the modified-direct-method (MOM). Results indicate the samples emitted small quantities of methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. Either methane or nitrogen was the predominant gas released. The same gases were released after crushing the samples for residual gas content; however, nitrogen was the primary component of this fraction. Total ~as contents ranged from less than 0.01 cm /g to 0.54 cm3/g. The hydrocarbon gases probably originated during coalification. Other gases may have originated partially as a byproduct of coalification and partially as a result of other, near-surface processes. The data suggest that although methane quantities are small, desorption could occur at near surface conditions prior to mining. The desorbed methane could accumulate as a free gas in fractures in the coal bed or roof rock. When these fractures are penetrated by the auger, methane could rapidly enter the whole atmosphere possibly creating explosive conditions.

Jan 1, 1994