Search Documents

By D. P. Caplice

On behalf of the Ontario Water Resources Commission, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to your Institute for presenting us with this opportunity to outline the regulatory control programme as it relates to the mining industry in the Province of Ontario. In Canada, and particularly in Ontario, we are blessed with an abundance of natural resources. Fresh water in the form of lakes and rivers covers nearly 17 per cent of the area of the Province. (Total area of the Province of Ontario is 412,582 square miles.) The mining industry, which had its beginning in the early 1800's with a small iron ore plant, has progressed with the major discoveries of nickel and copper in 1883, silver in 1903, gold in 1908, iron in 1939 and uranium in 1953, to the point where, in 1966, almost one billion dollars in mineral wealth was mined in Ontario. Water, in spite of its great abundance and with due respects that it may become a natural resource worthy of export in the foreseeable future, has become increasingly precious in Ontario, particularly in the more urban areas in the southern part of the Province.

Jan 1, 1968

By G. Q. Huang, Q. X. Yun, Z. Y. Gui

This paper provides a new approach to deal with control of ore-rock excavation by means of the optimal control theory-an important branch in cybernetics. In the optimal control theory, the elementary functions are state-transition function and objective function. According to the characteristics of mining planning and production, a set of formulation are established to cope with ore- rock excavation. The formulations include basic formula, anti-disturbance formula as well as other special formula. The new approach has been successfully used in several mines of China.

Jan 1, 1996

By Thys B. Johnson

This paper presents a new algorithm for solving the Controlled Flow Mine Ventilation Problem in an optimal manner - minimum power consumption. The use of booster fans and restrictions on the locations of ventilation regulators are dealt with in a straightforward manner. This new approach is based on a common Operations Research algorithm for which there are many fast computer programs available.

Jan 1, 1982

By Phil D. Newman, Robert J. Pine, Kevin Ross

The Stratoni Operations in northeastern Greece rely on a selective backfill method to exploit high-grade lead-zinc deposits. Underhand cut and fill often results in spans approaching 6-9 m (depending on the mining method employed) and a competent backfill is required to avoid dilution problems. Cement consumption represents a significant mining cost and through improving the control of the backfill batch preparation, the cement content could be greatly reduced without jeopardizing the grade control. A new distribution system was installed and a QAIQC system designed in cooperation with the operators to allow a wide range of backfill recipes, providing cost savings to the mine. A review of possible failure modes and the consequent strength required for the chosen mining method was also completed and indicated potentially significant cement content reductions. The calculations are supported by 12 years of experience at the mines which provides a valuable insight into the applicability of the approach developed.

Jan 1, 2001

By Ioannis Nicolaou

This paper demonstrates the method of approach for the optimization of such filters. This does not only incorporate the proven and simple recently developed equations for the calculation of the solids throughput, the residual moisture and gas throughput, but also introduces equations for the calculation of the specific product costs for both vacuum and hyperbaric filtration under consideration of the influences exerted by the filter compressor and a possible thermal drying. An easy-to-use method is offered which incorporates a special graphic representation concerning the plotting of the target parameters in dependence of the pressure difference with which the optimal process pressure difference can be established, independent of the specific cake permeability or product fineness. Finally, the optimization method is exemplarily demonstrated for a concrete application.

Jan 1, 1995

By Richard R. Klimpel

INTRODUCTION Previous papers by this author have discussed some of the difficulties involved with optimizing the performance of industrial flotation circuits, e.g. Klimpel (1988, 1989). The two major problems seem to be: 1) the inherent "systems" nature of the froth flotation process which leads to a great deal of self-compensation among the various operating options available and 2) the inherent variations in mineralogy, water chemistry, etc. that always seem to be present in industrial operations. In particular, the influence of reagent dosage has been emphasized in the above referenced work including an industrial system interaction denoted as the R/K trade-off, Klimpel (1984, 1987). Using a simple two parameter model for fitting time - recovery data, Klimpel (1980): [ ] where r is cumulative recovery at time t or at the t th cell, R is the long-term equilibrium recovery and K is the first-order rate of mass removal from the cell (time ), the definition of the R/K trade-off with increasing reagent dosage can be given as follows: at low dosages both R and K increase, at intermediate dosages R continues to increase but K starts to level out, and at high dosages, R may flatten out or still continue to increase but K starts to decrease, sometimes rather quickly. An illustration of this effect in a batch laboratory flotation cell is given in Figure 1. The purpose of this paper is to give a detailed plant illustration of this R/K trade-off phenomena with changing collector dosage which shows just how highly interactive the grindinglflotation system in sulfide mineral processing really is. This is one of about 20 plant level case studies that are being presented and evaluated in an upcoming book, Klimpel (1990). The particular study given here was completed in late 1979 on a copper ore of head grade 0.93% Cu. The frother being used was Dowfroth* 250 at a constant dosage of 0.15 g for each ton of solids feed to the rougher bank and the slurry pH was 10.2. The motivation of the study was to better understand the relationship of changes in feed rate (hence in particle size and state of liberation) with variations in collector dosage (potassium amyl xanthate). The major concern was to determine how much extra economic benefit could be gained by better utilizing the existing grinding mills and rougher bank consisting of eight identical cells. The remainder of the flotation circuit was also studied, including regrinding of rougher tails, but did not prove as critical as the rougher bank operation itself. It appeared from an overall economic viewpoint, the battle was being won or lost in the manner in which the rougher bank was being operated. This was not to minimize the roles of the scavenging and cleaning circuits but those portions of this particular circuit could be rather obviously operated to achieve maximum benefit given the specific output of the rougher bank. A special attempt was made to maintain constant ore type throughout the entire test program. Eight specific test conditions were evaluated including three different feed rates (and hence three different size distributions) to flotation. Tables 1 and 2 summarize the eight test conditions and overall recovery results at the end of the rougher bank for each test. A single test consisted of at least three consecutive eight-hour shifts operating at steady-state with composite cell lip samples taken over the final eight-hour shift. "Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company

Jan 1, 1990

By Jaroslav Vicek, Alois Adamus

In the Czech Republic nitrogen was first used for the fight against the mine fire in 1949 (Hajek,1969). In the years 1949¬1996 the consumption of nitrogen in the Ostrava-Karvina Coal Basin /OKB/ reached more than 220 mil. m-3. The main source of nitrogen in the OKB is a central pipeline now. Gas nitrogen is used for the prevention of spontaneous combustion in gobs of longwall faces. The nitrogen infusion technology (Froger,1985), often called "franca technology", has been applied in the Czech coal mines since 1982. The aspects of the nitrogen infusion technol¬ogy can be theoretically solved by the calculation of mixing two gas streams in the filtration space. Longwall faces are parts of the ventilation network of the coal mine. The intake airflow of the longwall face is divided into the airflow passing through the face and a part of air losses passing through the gob. Air leakages through the gob and nitrogen in¬jected into the gob mix there. There is the main problem to solve air leakages in the gob. Usually, the principles of the gob aerody¬namics were used by many authors (Glusberg,1988;Voracek, 1994; Sulkowski,1993; Michailov, 1995; Dziurzynski, 1995; Kolarczyk, 1995; Saghafi, 1995; Sedlaty, 1993) that are applied to our case as well.

Jan 1, 1997

By Mark W. Johns

The design or optimization of a carbon-in-pulp (CIP) plant requires the determination and setting of a number of parameters to ensure optimum economic performance. A number of these parameters are either fixed, a function of the pulp, interdepen­dent, affect other parameters or outputs, so only a limited number of degrees of freedom exist from a metallurgical point of view. The traditional CIP contactor employs a low carbon concen­tration, a low agitation intensity and a reasonably long pulp residence time. The pump cell contactor employs a high carbon concentration, a high agitation intensity and a reasonably short pulp residence time. The two philosophies are dipolar in nature and the question arises as to which configuration is the optimum configuration for a CIP plant. The carbon particle size is shown to have a small effect on the capital cost of a CIP plant. A decrease in the pulp residence time, an increase in the pulp density, an increase in the carbon residence time, an increase in the agitation intensity and an increase in the number of stages are shown to have a positive effect on the capital cost of a CIP plant. The pulp residence time, the pulp density and carbon particle size are shown to have a small effect on the operating cost of a CIP plant. An increase in the carbon residence time, a decrease in the agitation intensity and an increase in the number of stages are shown to have a positive effect on the operating cost of a CIP plant. The optimum CIP plant, therefore, employs a short pulp residence time, the traditional pulp density, a long carbon residence time, the traditional carbon particle size, the traditional agitation intensity, and the traditional number of stages. Neither the pump cell configuration nor the traditional CIP configurations match the optimum configuration.

Jan 1, 1995

By Ernest Koenigsberg

In 1961 Lerchs and Grossman presented a method, based on graph theory, to determine the optimum ultimate pit limits for an open-cast mine. At the same time they demonstrated a dynamic programming algorithm for the optimum pit limits for a two-dimensional open-cast mine. Since then many methods for determining optimum limits for three-dimensional mines have been programed, and even more have been reported in the literature. The methods include computer "simulation" of the manual methods used by engineers, the development of sets of conic sections and fitting to exclude overlap, integer linear programming (and its equivalent network flow model), and dynamic programming. Many of the methods do not guarantee optimal solutions but seem to satisfy the user. Other reported methods have never been applied, partly because they did not yield optimal solutions. We have developed a three-dimensional dynamic programming algorithm which requires a single pass through the data. Large problems can be solved on a small computer because only a small part of the data is required at any time. In this paper we will review the state of the art and to demonstrate the connection between linear programming (and network flow) models and the dynamic programming method.

Jan 1, 1982

The trend for using larger equipment in open pit mining to achieve cost effectiveness raises the question about the optimum economic point of scale in the current world of globalization. The present paper treats this question through the prism of a new methodology of assessing the impact of the size of production equipment on the economic outcomes of coal mining ventures. The methodology incorporates a production scheduling optimization model that implements both principles of mine planning, coal quality optimization and waste deferment. The implementation of the waste deferment principle dealing with the spatial and time aspects of the mine sequence arrangement allows the adequate modeling of the optimality of production equipment scale through the use of mine investment parameters, such as, purchase and ownership costs and discounted cash flows analysis. A case study is provided to illustrate the applicability of the new methodology.

Jan 1, 2004

By Yousef Ghorbani, Jafar Abdolahi Sharif, Fatemeh Kazemi, Ataallah Bahrami

Kinetic models are the most important tool for predicting and evaluating the performance of flotation circuits. Gilsonite is a natural fossil resource similar to an oil asphalt, high in asphaltenes. Here, in order to determine the kinetic order and flotation rate of a gilsonite sample, flotation experiments were carried out in both rougher and cleaner stages. Experiments were conducted using the combinations of oil–MIBC and gas oil–pine oil, with one test without collector and frother. Five kinetic models were applied to the data obtained from the flotation tests using MATLAB software. Statistical analysis showed that the results of the experiment with oil–MIBC were highly in compliance with all models. Kinetic constants (k) were calculated as 0.1548 (s−1 ) and 0.0450 (s−1 ) for rougher and cleaner stages, respectively. Rougher and cleaner tests without collector and frother also matched all models well (R2 > 0.98), with k values of 0.2163 (s−1 ) and 0.284 (s−1 ), respectively. The relationship between flotation rate constant, maximum combustible recovery, and particle size showed that the maximum flotation combustible recovery and flotation rate were obtained in the size range of −250 + 106 μm in the rougher and cleaner stages. The combustible recovery and flotation rate were higher in the rougher flotation process than in the cleaner stage.

By R. W. Sayers

The Duval Corporation porphyry copper deposits at Copper Canyon and Copper Basin, though widely separated, form an economic unit requiring integrated exploitation. Contrasts in mineralization, host rocks, and mode of occurrence present unique mining and milling problems. Mixed oxide-sulfide ore is treated in extensive dump leaching facilities in both areas. Complex copper-gold-silver ore is treated in a 4,000 tpd mill at Copper Canyon. In both areas, hypogene metallization occurs within large aureoles of metamorphism and hydrothermal alteration related to quartz monzonite intrusions of mid-Tertiary age. Supergene processes further altered the rocks and enriched the hypogene protore. At Copper Canyon, hypogene copper and iron sulfides with gold and silver occur in fractures, as partial replacement of favorable beds, and as disseminations in Paleozoic sedimentary rocks. The lower part of the Pennsylvanian Battle Formation was a particularly favorable host. Metallization occurs to a lesser extent in quartz monzonite. Metal zoning is well developed. The deposits at Copper Basin consist principally of supergene copper minerals in arenites of the Cambrian Harmony Formation. Oxidation of hypogene copper and iron sulfides in tactite zones has formed at least two commercial deposits; intersections of fractures with favorable beds exerted important ore controls.

Jan 1, 1968

By M. Springett

Organization of teams for rapid and effective evaluation of international mining properties requires special considerations beyond those needed for domestic activities. Experience, technical ability, a sense of perspective, humor and self-discipline are vital characteristics to look for in the selection of individuals for forming an efficient and productive team.

Jan 1, 1994

By John K. Adams

Phosphorus may be incorporated into sedimentary rocks in at least four different ways: (1) by the accumulation of detrital mineral fragments, (2) by the accumulation of phosphatic organic debris, (3) by diagenesis and (4) perhaps by the primary precipitation of calcium phosphate. Based-on the petrographic examination of Cretaceous and Tertiary sediments from the northern and central parts of the Atlantic Coastal Plain, Diagenesis is the most important of these mechanisms. Both syndiagenesis and epidiagenesis are required to explain the origin of all the diagenetic phosphate mineral species which occur in the northern and central parts of the coastal plain. Syndiagenesis produced much of the coastal plain's apatite. It was operative below the sediment-water interface while the substrate was being compacted. Compaction forced pore waters, which were enriched in phosphate by the decomposition of organic matter, upward through calcareous sediments. The PO43- radicle replaced the CO23- and calcareous nodules, pellets and shell fragments were converted to apatite. Epidiagenetic reactions occurred in the subaerial environment where downward percolating meteoric waters carried phosphate in solution to cites where cation activity was sufficiently high to form new minerals. Vivianite may form where ferrous iron is available and wavellite and variscite may form in the presence of aluminum rich minerals. Textural evidence suggests that many of the reactions were repeated. The present day appearance of apatite, vivianite, wavellite and variscite in the coastal plain may represent several generations of diagenesis.

Jan 1, 1972

By J. J. Renton

The iron disulphide minerals, pyrite and to a lesser extent marcasite, are ubiquitous to coal and coal associated rocks and are the source of nearly all the environmental problems associated with the mining, processing and utilization of coal. The iron disulphides as well as the other minerals in coal exhibit systematic spatial pat- terns of distribution on both regional and local scales and show predictable associations, most of which are determined by the geochemical-sedimentological controls under which they form. It is the purpose of this paper to discuss the geochemical-sedimentological conditions responsible for the formation of coal minerals with special emphasis on the formation of iron disulphides, to illustrate the regional and local patterns of mineral occurrence within coal, to present the microscopic associations of the iron disulphides and finally, to discuss the most important single environmental aspect of the iron disulphide content of coal and coal associated rocks; the production of acid mine drainage.

Jan 1, 1986

By Michael E. Berndt

Asbestos first became an issue to Minnesota?s iron industry when it was revealed that mineral fibers similar to those in Reserve Mining?s tailings were being found in drinking water for several communities that used Lake Superior as their primary water source. This discovery turned what had largely been an environmental court battle into a case concerning public health. The courts listened to much conflicting and uncertain scientific testimony on the size and distribution of the mineral fibers and on the potential health effects imposed by them. In April 1974, the plant was ordered to shut down by a federal judge but the company quickly appealed the decision. The appeals court granted a stay and ultimately ruled that the plant?s closure could not be justified based on the unknown health effects of the mineral fibers since the consequences of such an action would have immediate and severe social and economic impacts. The plant was allowed to continue operation, but ordered to abate emissions to air around the plant and to switch to a land-based tailings disposal system. Much of the scientific uncertainty and public concern over mineral fibers in Minnesota?s taconite industry remain today. ©2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Keywords: Minnesota; Iron ore; Taconite; Asbestos; Amphibole; Reserve Mining; Tailings; Mesabi Iron Range

Jan 1, 2007

By J. D. Christensen

In August 1987, we marked the tenth anniversary of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act. Anniversaries are supposed to be times of celebration, and I truly believe that we have something to celebrate on this anniversary. For, after ten years, there has been much progress in the implementation of the surface mining law.

Jan 1, 1988

By Douglas K. Maxwell

Critical components of any Carbon-In-Pulp or Carbon-In-Leach system are the carbon retention screens. One popular design of carbon retention screen is the "NKM" or "Nor-Kai" unit that was developed in South Africa based on units from there and Australia. OSNA Equipment has been manufacturing "NKM" style screens in North America since 1989. OSNA has sold approximately 200 individual NKM screens to date, equipping more than 20 gold leaching plants in the Americas and the Southwest Pacific.

Jan 1, 1996

By Randal J. Barnes

A system, such as a mine production system or a mine ventilation system which includes the movement of commodities or some material between decision points may, in many instances, be effectively modelled as a network. Mining has often been characterized as primarily a materials handling function. To a great extent this is true, even though it is an over simplification of all the activities involved in a mining operation. Accepting the materials handling characterization of a mining operation permits the extension of the characterization to a flow process. That is, the ore flows from the mining face through the mining phase (excavation & loading, hauling, dumping) through the milling phase (crushing, grinding, recovery) through the smelter phase and finally to marketing. With this concept it is possible to depict a mining operation as a simple network. For example consider an operation consisting of two mines (A and B) with mills at each mine (MA and MB) with the possibility open to treat ore from mine b at mill NB, but it is not feasible to treat mine B ore at MA. The product of both mills is sold.

Jan 1, 1983

By G. P. Hand

The graphite industry as a whole has gone through many changes over the years. Most of the graphite used in major applications since the turn of the century were basic natural or electrode by-product synthetic materials, processed using simple crushing, screening, or grinding techniques. In the mid 1970's new thermal technology was developed which changed the face of the .graphite industry, and opened up a panacea of new products and capabilities. Materials produced through this new technology have helped revolutionize new products and processes in industries including automotive, batteries, fuel cells, electronics, iron, lubricants and steel. This paper outlines the continued improvements in those industries as well as the as well as the outlook for new technology in this rapidly changing area.

Jan 1, 1997