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By Thomas R. Doyle

When you think of the state of Maine, you probably think of lobsters or lighthouses. The last thing you would think of is metallic mineral mining, and that is for good reason. According to the Maine Geological Survey?s website, ?no metals have been mined in Maine since 1977.? Moreover, Maine?s metallic mineral mining laws and rules, which were last rewritten in 1991, have effectively made mining in the Pine Tree State impossible. Statutory changes enacted in 2012, however, put Maine on a path to make metallic mineral mining part of the local economy in the near future. History of metallic mineral mining in Maine Currently, Maine is not a metallic mineral mining state, though that has not always been the case. The 1800s saw various mining operations in Maine, including what the Maine Geological Survey calls a ?mining boom? from 1879 to 1882, where mining of iron, silver, copper, lead and zinc expanded rapidly. Mining and mining activity in the more recent past, however, drove the debate before the state legislature when this issue was debated in 2012.

Jan 1, 2012

By John P. Capp

After World War II the Bureau of Mines studied methods of producing synthesis gas including a plan to gasify coal in place. Consequently, under a cooperative agreement with the Alabama Power Co., Bureau engineers directed a series of experiments that were carried out on the property of the Alabama Power Co. at Gorgas, Ala. The purpose of underground gasification of coal, regardless of method used, is to obtain the energy contained in the fuel for use on the surface, without mining in the usual sense of the term. Underground gasification can be described as (1) a process where coal, in place, is consumed by partial combustion with air, oxygen, steam, or any combination of these to produce a low calorific value gas (80 to 300 Btu per cu ft) or (2) a complete combustion process in which air is used to produce a gas containing carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and considerable thermal energy.

Jan 1, 1963

By Larry G. Stolarczyk

This report deals with information regarding a new Medium Frequency (MF) Wireless Communication System for underground mines. This new telecommunication system works on low loss electromagnetic wave propagation modes which allow it to provide quality radio communications almost anywhere in a mine. Tests show the MF system can provide improved safety and managerial control, increased productivity, better organizational team-work and reduced maintenance cost; furthermore, MF's unique design allows for easy installation at a minimum cost. This paper covers the following: 1) MF design plan, 2) Overview of mine radio communications systems, 3) Preparations needed for designing an MF system, 4) MF equipment, 5) MF installation, 6) MF design considerations, 7) MF design specifications, and 8) Recommendations dealing with MF system. Experiments in four mines are illustrated to demonstrate the success and viability of the MF system. The mines range from small (500 tons/day) to large (67,000 tons/day) capacity and represent several different mining methods. The MF Wireless Communication System represents an advancement in mining communication and the groundwork for other advanced mine systems.

Jan 1, 1984

By L. Tejeda, J. R. Donald, R. Parra, J. Duran, P. H. Lauzon

"Crucible slag tests were employed to evaluate different refractory brick classes for the Cerro Matoso electric furnace. Comprehensive analysis was conducted to evaluate the crucible erosion and characterize any slag/refractory reaction products.The classes of refractories investigated were:•,tar-impregnated magnesia;•,rebonded fused grain magnesia-chrome;•,direct bonded magnesia-chrome;•,alumina-chrome;•,picrochromite; and•,magnesia-alumina (spinel).It was concluded that tar-impregnated MgO bricks were the most suitable for the slag chemistry and furnace environment according to corrosion and infiltration resistance. A picrochromite (MgCr2O4) brick performed exceptionally well with regards to erosion resistance, however, the slag infiltrated extensively through the brick pores. Alumina-chrome, direct bonded magnesia-chromite, and spinel (magnesia-alumina) bricks were evaluated as not suitable for use in the furnace."

Jan 1, 1999

By Jack L. Henry

The monocarbide region of the ternary system U-C-O has been investigated at 1,700° C as the first phase of a more extensive study of a portion of the four-component system U-C-O-N. An area bounded by the following compositional limits in atomic percent was studied: U, 44 to 55; C, 30 to 60; 0, 0.2 to 20. Compacts composed of mixtures of uranium, graphite, and uranium dioxide powders were sintered at 1,700° C under an equilibrium pressure of carbon monoxide to produce uranium oxycarbide specimens having a variety of compositions. Sintered specimens were evaluated by X-ray, chemical analysis, and ceramographic techniques. Solid-solution boundaries and phase relations have been established, and the effects of composition on the lattice parameter as well as the decomposition pressure have been investigated. Oxygen can be substituted for carbon in stoichiometric uranium monocarbide to the extent of about 17 atomic percent at 1,700° C. The composition range of the oxycarbide solid solution extends from about 48 to 51 atomic percent uranium in the low oxygen region. Above 10 atomic percent oxygen the composition range narrows to less than 1 atomic percent uranium. Carbon monoxide exists as a gaseous phase in equilibrium with all compositions which contain oxygen. Five separate phase fields were found bounding the solid-solution area. Other phases within this portion of the system include uranium, uranium dioxide, uranium dicarbide, and uranium sesquicarbide. Decomposition pressures of oxycarbide compositions at 1,700° C have been found to vary from a few microns for stoichiometric and uranium-rich compositions to 35 torr for carbon-oxygen-rich specimens. Lattice parameters were found to depend upon the U to C + 0 ratio as well upon the extent of substitution of oxygen into the stoichiometric monocarbide lattice.

Jan 1, 1967

By Matheus Teixeira Fraga

É comum o uso de modelos matemáticos no intuito de prever a qualidade do coque, sendo a maioria dos modelos atualmente disponíveis baseada nas propriedades dos carvões. Para este trabalho foram feitas misturas binárias e ternárias de carvões com variados teores de matéria volátil, a fim de se produzir coque em escala laboratorial. A reatividade ao CO2 em termobalança e resistência mecânica em tambores foi avaliada. Dois modelos para previsão de indicadores de qualidade do coque foram avaliados, o modelo aditivo e o modelo de interação. A partir da metodologia desenvolvida em laboratório foi possível produzir, avaliar e comparar coques feitos a partir de diferentes carvões e misturas. O modelo aditivo mostrou uma boa capacidade de prever a reatividade dos coques. No entanto, para os índices derivados dos testes de tambores os valores calculados mostram uma diferença importante em relação aos experimentais, indicando interação dos carvões no processo de carbonização. Nos resultados do modelo de interações, os valores calculados para reatividade e resistência mecânica, se comparados com os resultados do modelo aditivo, mostraram uma melhora na capacidade de previsão da qualidade do coque. O modelo de interações se apresenta como uma ferramenta interessante na seleção e mistura de carvões.

Aug 17, 2017

By P. E. Cavanagh

Introduction A comprehensive study of the economics of processes for smelting iron ores has been made by the Ontario Research Foundation on behalf of the Ontario Research Commission. This survey has included investigations of all processes in commercial use, and proposed processes which are still in the experimental stage. The two main objects of this work were to discover (l) whether any known processes would be particularly suited to present and future Canadian conditions, and (2) whether any new process would be of assistance in solving the present scrap shortage in Canada. The future prospects of the Canadian iron smelting industry have changed radically in the past ten years. For nearly twenty years before 1939 no iron ore was mined in Canada. The ore used was imported, mainly from the United States and Newfoundland. The economics of iron blast-furnace smelting always force the location of blast furnaces near the source of coal for making high-grade metallurgical coke, and near the market for iron and steel, rather than near the iron ore. Blast-furnace installations in Canada are confined to the north shores of the Great Lakes with ready access to United States coal and ore and the major Canadian markets, and to Nova Scotia near the coalfields of that Province. This distribution of primary smelting capacity naturally results in relatively high prices for iron and steel in the West, the North, and in Quebec.

Jan 1, 1948

By John P. Capp

After World War II the Bureau of Mines studied methods of producing synthesis gas including a plan to gasify coal in place. Consequently, under a cooperative agreement with the Alabama Power Co., Bureau engineers directed a series of experiments that were carried out on the property of the Alabama Power Co. at Gorgas, Ala. The purpose of underground gasification of coal, regardless of method used, is to obtain the energy contained in the fuel for use on the surface, without mining in the usual sense of the term. Underground gasification can be described as (1) a process where coal, in place, is consumed by partial combustion with air, oxygen, steam, or any combination of these to produce a low calorific value gas (80 to 300 Btu per cu ft) or (2) a complete combustion process in which air is used to produce a gas containing carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and considerable thermal energy.

Jan 1, 1963

Many mining operations are uncertain of what costs they should be achieving. The majority of cost estimates are based on historical costs that have added contingency factors. Historical costs are a valuable source of information but a more precise costing method is necessary. There are several alternative methods for predicting costs. A methodology which provides the best indication of the achievable costs is one using a standard inventory list and a bill of quantities. The model is termed a Basic Principles model and addresses basic design principles and engineering constraints.

Jan 1, 1990

By T. L. Joseph

The Bureau of Mines gas been studying the blast furnace for a number of years and has published detailed reports on various phases of its investigations. Inquiries frequently received for information of a more general character than that given in the detailed reports have promoted the preparation of an information circular to cover in a general way the important features of the Bureau of Mines blast-furnace investigations. SHAPE AND DIMENSIONS OF FURNACE The modern blast furnace approximate a refractory-lined steel cylinder about 90 feet in height and 25 feet in diameter. It actually consists of a number of cylinders and truncated cones superimposed upon each other. The shape and dimensions of a modern furnace are shown in figure 1. The bottom section, commonly referred to as the hearth or crucible, is a cylindrical section about 12 feet high. Liquid metal and slag collect in this part of the furnace and are withdrawn at regular intervals; iron is removed at a level about 2 feet above the bottom of the furnace and slag at a level about 5 feet higher. Depending upon on the size of tie furnace, 40,000 to 75,000 cubic feet of preheated air per minute is introduced through from 10 to 16 tuyeres equally spaced around the periphery of the hearth.

Jan 1, 1934

By Staff

The goal of the U.S. Bureau of Mines diesel engine research program is to reduce exhaust emissions from diesel-powered equipment used in underground mines. This research has led to significant advances in aerosol measurement and to the development of more effective emission controls. This Information Circular contains reports of some of the presentations made at the Bureau's Information and Technology Transfer Seminar on Diesels in Underground Mines given in Minneapolis, MN, on September 29-30, 1992. The seminar emphasized the measurement and control of diesel particulate matter emissions. Topics covered include a discussion of the health issues associated with the use of diesel equipment underground, an overview of regulations, measurement techniques for diesel exhaust aerosol, levels of diesel exhaust pollutants found in mines, and modern emission controls. An appendix is included that contains a report describing the capabilities of the Bureau's diesel emissions research laboratory, two papers describing the effects of engine maintenance or: emissions, a paper describing the monitoring of carbon dioxide in mine air as an indicator of air quality, a glossary, and a list of abbreviations and acronyms.

Jan 1, 1992

By Mark Springett

The problems inherent in sampling low- grade deposits have long been recognized. As economic grades become lower with increasing metals prices and improvements in recovery technology then the previously difficult sampling problem has consequently become even more demanding. The breakdown of the sample process and error is illustrated by describing in the remainder of the paper some sampling practices that have been utilized on mining and exploration properties and by describing some problems that have been encountered, providing a series of cautionary tales to those involved in any aspect of mine or exploration sampling.

Jan 1, 1983

By H. Sasao, Y. Obara, A. Hirata

In the upper part of the planned location of the portal of a highway tunnel, there was a steep rock cliff with several unstable rock blocks. It seemed that the risk of those rock blocks to fall was very high. The cut-out to stabilize the rock cliff was monitored with various measuring instruments to prevent the sudden fall of the rock blocks. This paper discusses the measurement of acoustic emission and interpretation of its result during excavation of the rock cliff. We calculated displacements by integrating the accelerogram twice in terms of time, and demonstrated that slight displacements can be calculated from the measured AEs. Dans la partie supérieure de l’emplacement prévu pour le portail d’un tunnel autoroutier, il y avait un escarpement rocheux raide avec plusieurs blocs rocheux instables. Le risque de chute de ces blocs semblait très élevé. Lors de la coupe pour stabiliser l’escarpement rocheux, le suivi a été effectué avec différents instruments de mesure pour éviter la chute brutale des blocs rocheux. Cette thèse présente les mesures d’émission acoustique (EA) et l’interprétation de leurs résultats pendant l’excavation de l’escarpement rocheux. Nous avons calculé des déplacements en intégrant l’accélérogramme deux fois par rapport au temps, et montré que de petits déplacements sont calculables à partir des EA mesurées. Im oberen Teil des geplanten Ortes des Stollenmundes eines Autobahntunnels gab es einen steilen Felsen mit mehreren instabilen Felsenblöcken. Die Gefahr schien sehr groß zu sein, dass diese Felsenblöcke einstürzen können. Beim Abbau um die Stabilisierung des Felsens wurde das Monitoring mit verschiedenen Messinstrumenten zusammengestellt, um den plötzlichen Verfall der Felsenblöcke zu verhindern. Das vorliegende Papier diskutiert die Akustische Emission und die Auslegung deren Ergebnisse während des Abbaus des Felsens. Wir berechneten die Verschiebungen durch zweimalige Integrierung der Accelerogrammen in Bezug auf die Zeit. Die dargestellten kleinen Verschiebungen können aus den gemessten akustischen Emissionen berechnet werden.

Jan 1, 2003

By E. Yigit

Hydrometallurgical production of zinc from concentrates is generally carried out by H2SO4 leaching. For the smooth operation of this process, some harmful components must be removed from the leach solution before the electrolysis stage; MgO is one of these compounds. Zinc concentrate samples from the Mount Isa mines were used in leaching tests. Leaching tests with an aqueous solution of H2SO4 and SO2 gas were carried out at various temperatures, pH levels and leaching durations. While duration and the pH value of the solution were effective parameters in H2SO4 leaching, temperature and pH were more effective in SO2 leaching for the removal of MgCO3 and CaCO3. Removal of MgCO3 and CaCO3 was generally achieved at low pH values. The results show that SO2 gas can be a good alternative to sulfuric acid in the leaching of MgCO3 and CaCO3

Jan 1, 2010

By Huang Qiming

The CISDI-GreenEAF innovatively applies the top-side-chute for charging for improving the cold zone of electric-arc furnace (EAF) requiring preheating scrap. It can greatly reduce the operating power consumption during EAF melting by combined use of fume for preheating scrap. The enclosed charging mode and specially-designed structure contribute to less emission of dust and fume during charging while enhancing the metal yield. Thanks to the extraordinary fume temperature control at scrap preheating procedure and fume quenching technology as developed by CISDI, for restraining the regeneration of dioxin.

Oct 30, 2017

By Jamie D. McEwan

To cater for the future introduction of 12 car trains, London Blackfriars railway station is being extended from the north end to span across the River Thames. Following the demolition of existing buildings, a number of challenges had to be overcome including working adjacent to a live railway line, above live London Underground tracks and working in small restricted spaces. Trains entering and exiting two lines of track at the bridge's north end of track meant that access was difficult due to the location and proximity to existing infrastructure. The site was very much constrained and congested and there were also a series of works in place to maintain passenger flows so as not to inconvenience the travelling public. The site had been developed many times in the past resulting in a number of obstructions that would require removal during the piling work including old brickwork, reinforced concrete, redundant railway sleepers and track and existing concrete and timber piles. A number of solutions had to be devised to overcome these obstructions. Piling works were undertaken during the day and at night to meet programme.

Jan 1, 2011

By Doyle A. Ellerbruch

An FM-CW microwave system was investigated for measuring coal layer thickness. Measurements were made in three different mines near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, near Fairview, West Virginia, and near Coffeen, Illinois. Microwave frequencies in the range 1-2 GHz were used to measure samples up to 55 cm thick. All samples were backed with a naturally occurring shale. Measurements were also made on coal and shale samples compounded in the laboratory at the Bureau of Mines Pittsburgh Mining and Safety Research Center near Bruceton, Pennsylvania. The results indicate that layer thickness can be determined in most cases, although large anomalies may, in some cases, produce misleading results. Many anomalies that were detected with the FM-CW system were verified visually by drilling into the coal layer. The dielectric constant of coal apparently varies significantly within a coal seam. The form of the output signals from the FM-CW system seem to simplify the data interpretation and analysis process as compared to the manually swept microwave system used previously. It appears that this technique has the potential of measuring changes in the dielectric constant of a coal seam and providing an output that can be used for real-time corrections in layer thickness; measurement.

Jan 1, 1976

What is your assessment of the status of the mining industry as we see some evidence of an economic recovery? I am optimistic about the short and midterm prospects for the industry and, hence, for the professionals in the industry that constitute the majority of the SME membership. All who will read this interview recognize that the quality of life we enjoy today is largely a result of our achievements in the mining and minerals processing sectors. I believe that the sustainability of that quality of life and the aspirations of other sectors of the global community to attain that same lifestyle will significantly depend on the continued successes of these industries. Looking at some of the traditional economic indicators, we see predictions of continued increases in gold prices during the next 12 months as a new round of quantitative easing keeps real interest rates low and drives excess capital flows from countries with trade surpluses - who have traditionally parked their money in U.S. government bonds - into other investable assets, such as gold. On the fuel side of the industry, we have during the last decade seen a steady rise in the cost of coal, and some of the recent spot prices have seen dramatic increases. Some suggest that coal prices may rise sooner than anyone expects, as global reserves are revised downward. This is based on the hypothesis that some of the main coal-producing countries are overestimating supplies and that coal prices could start rising far sooner than anyone thinks - with obvious serious implications for energy policy. Those forecasters note that, for the past couple of decades, global supply has been dropping at a faster rate than consumption.

Jan 1, 2011

By R. Unger, L. Mallett

The use of virtual reality (VR) technologies to train miners is an evolving area in research and development. In July 2006, representatives of 14 international organizations met to discuss current VR-related efforts and explore ways to employ VR in the future. This paper gives an overview of the various approaches presented at the meeting and discusses directions for future implementation. An example of a training package that teaches mine map-reading skills is presented. The meeting was the first step to building collaborations for furthering VR applications for mining. Planning has begun for a 2008 meeting open to broader participation.

Jan 1, 2007

By Markus Reuter, Antoinette van Schaik

In this paper the link between process metallurgy, classical minerals processing, product centric recycling and urban/landfill mining is discussed. The depth that has to be achieved in urban mining and recycling must glean from the wealth of theoretical knowledge and insight that have been developed in the past in minerals and metallurgical processing. This background learns that recycling demands a product centric approach, which considers simultaneously the multi-material interactions in man-made complex ‘minerals’. Fast innovation in recycling and urban mining can be achieved by further evolving from this well developed basis, evolving the techniques and tools that have been developed over the years. This basis has already been used for many years to design, operate and control industrial plants for metal production. This has been the basis for Design for Recycling rules for End-of-Life products. Using, among others, the UNEP Metal Recycling report as a basis (authors are respectively Lead and Main authors of report), it is demonstrated that a common theoretical basis as developed in metallurgy and minerals processing can help much to level the playing field between primary processing, secondary processing, recycling, and urban/landfill mining and product design hence enhancing resource efficiency. Thus various scales of detail link product design with metallurgical process design and its fundamentals.

Jan 1, 2014