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The selection and implementation of the right technology for a project is critical to the future development of the resource industry. It is essential for companies to ensure ongoing competitive viability that where practical new or alternative technology be adopted. Analysis of historical data relating to development of resource-based process plants provides an enlightening insight into the key factors which influence their success or failure. The adoption of new technology does not guarantee the success of a project. The outcomes of this analysis have been used to develop some general guidelines and principles the author believes are useful in the selection and implementation of new or alternative technology in resource projects. This paper is available as a PowerPoint presentation only.

Jan 1, 2006

By Nixon J. C, Reynolds C

Three principal features of the ore at Captain's Flat, New South Wales, tend to complicate concentration of the valuable minerals, these being:1. The ore occurs in three more or less separate bodies which vary in texture and mineral ratios. Mining of constant proportions of the three sections, or adequate blending of the ore, is not fully effective, and consequently the flotation section is subjected to feedof varying texture.2. The mineral association in the heavily pyritic ore is extremely intimate. Composite particles exist even at 20 micron sizeI, and probably finer.3. The copper content of the ore averages_about 0,6%, which is high enough to justify recovery of the chalcopyrite in a separate concentrate. A review of the metallurgical history of the mine shows that this feature has been the cause of the several major changes in flowsheet of the flotation section since the commencement of milling.METALLURGICAL HISTORYThe mine started production in January 1939, at the rate of 250 tons per day of sulphide ore, assaying 0·68% Cu, 6·52% Pb, 10·8% Zn, and about 1 dwt. Au and 2 oz. Ag per ton.

Jan 1, 1952

Characterisation of Manganese Ores

Sep 13, 2010

Australia had been enjoying a market boom led by the mining sector and West Australian mines were leading the way to satisfy the massive demand for our natural resources, especially from China. However, the Apache gas explosion on Varanus Island, 97 km off the west coast, has clearly demonstrated how the unexpected can suddenly impact on profitability and investor confidence for the mining industry. Risk management with contingency planning can provide the most cost-effective solution to help ensure mining projects are successful. For this discussion we will focus primarily on contingency planning, CP for mining projects à and how to plan for the unexpected. The Apache gas explosion will be our example æUnexpected EventÆ. Insurance may provide financial compensation but it will not protect your reputation as a reliable supplier or prevent damage to investor confidence and future mine projects. However, contingency planning can provide real protection for mining projects à to survive the unexpected.

Jan 1, 2009

The theme of this paper is the development of-the project feasibility study which includes discussion of the work which is carried out in preparing the project feasibility study, the necessary evaluations and structures that are employed to ensure that not only does the feasibility study itself stand up to scrutiny and is sound, but also that the investment the company is proposing to develop, "the project", is an investment decision which will represent good returns to the company. This theme is particularly relevant when there are competing divisions within the company and only limited cash resources are available to make the correct investment decision. Thus various potential investments may be evaluated against each other to determine which project will be given the go ahead for development. This paper will particularly focus on the various investment analysis techniques that are used and discuss the work that is required in preparing the project feasibility study and specifically the interaction of the project team members and the thought process that must be undertaken to complete the project feasibility study. Finally comments will be made on tax planning issues particularly with respect to taxation of gold production to be introduced in January 1991. Some ideas are presented which may help and possibly improve the financial position of the projects being reviewed. Further, it is suggested that the thought process which goes with the financial engineering aspects of a resource project can be widened to take account of taxation issues and tax planning to ensure the rise of the project feasibility and hence the decision to proceed to development by the project sponsors.

Jan 1, 1990

By N Redwood, N Fowkes, A Bassom, S Durkin

"It is well known that from time-to-time a vehicle will interact with a bund or windrow and often the barrier is insufficient to safely arrest that vehicle. The result of such an incident is often catastrophic. Regulations around the requirement for edge protection near pit edges vary between jurisdictions. Generally in Australia regulations tend to be around placing the responsibility on the mine operator to provide ‘adequate’ or ‘appropriate’ edge protection. Guidelines often place a minimum height of bund at between half and two-thirds the diameter of the largest tyre on-site.Safescape has identified the opportunity to improve safety in open pit edge protection and is currently developing the Edge Protector (EP) product. The EP is designed to create a vertical front face to a conventional broken rock safety bund. The fundamental premise of the product is that by creating a vertical front face to the bund, trucks cannot easily drive up over the bund and instead have to push through the rock to get to the other side.In addition to providing a safer system for arresting vehicles, the vertical front face also means that extra space is made available in the haul road. This can either be used to facilitate larger trucks or when designing a new mine, with an increase in overall pit slope.This paper outlines the research and development of a new edge protection product. Discussion will include project objectives, economic incentive for mines to apply the system, mathematical analysis of the truck/bund interaction and physical testing of the product.Citation:Durkin, S, Fowkes, N, Redwood, N and Bassom, A, 2016. Innovative Approach to Open Pit Edge Protection, in Proceedings Ninth AusIMM Open Pit Operators' Conference 2016, pp 138–149 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne)."

Nov 15, 2016

By J. K. A. McLEOD

Address by the President of the Institute (Mr J K A McLeod) in presenting the Institute Medal to Howard Knox Warner, C.B.E. Address by Howard Knox Warner after accepting the award.

Jan 1, 1978

By McKee D. J

Much research is aimed at providing a revolutionary advance in technology that has the potential to render current mining and beneficiation problems obsolete. Such revolutionary advancements have been significant but few in number. Recent history shows that most improvement has been derived from a series of incremental improvements to the many processes that make up mining and beneficiation systems. Management approaches are changing to encourage this 'continuous improvement' and to support its implementation through the formal management of quality. This paper reviews some of the industry's priority R&D project areas and demonstrates that very significant opportunities are available to broaden the focus for improvement from individual processes to include the interaction between mining and mineral beneficiation systems.

Jan 1, 1994

By F Ramos

Conventional techniques for resource estimation generally involve the laborious analysis of variograms and the specification of parameters for covariance functions. In large deposits, construction of resource models and their update require significant amount of manual work, expert knowledge and time. In this paper we take a machine learning view to the problem of resource estimation. This is a non-parametric Bayesian method, leading to automatic parameter estimation (learning). Through Bayesian learning, the parameters of the model can be obtained by optimising a quantity known as the marginal likelihood. The main advantage of this approach over conventional maximum likelihood estimators is that the objective function incorporates the OccamÆs razor principle. This allows the comparison of different statistical models û for example, models designed with different covariance functions û and naturally penalises complexity, thus avoiding overfitting. Our technique presents significant flexibility for the definition of mean and covariance functions and permits the usage of more sophisticated models.The second contribution of this work is the formulation of a data fusion mechanism that continuously updates the resource model. As mining progresses, more information becomes available. For example, the hardness of the rocks can be measured while drilling blast holes, grades of ore and contaminants are obtained from cone logging. This information is in general available at a finer spatial resolution but can be more uncertain. The data fusion mechanism can seamlessly estimate the uncertainties of the different types of information and fuse them as new measurements are acquired. This procedure can significantly improve the quality of the resource model, defining new grounds for stochastic mine planning. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in estimating iron ore deposits by integrating information about different grades.

Sep 26, 2011

By Morgan W. M

It is not the primary object of this paper to treat with the scheme of prospecting in detail, but it is considered that a brief description of the broad lines is necessary so that the significance of the points to be discussed later may be appreciated.The finding of payable gold reefs on the Bendigo field resolves itself into a two-fold problem, firstly the location of quartz bodies, and secondly the location of gold shoots in such bodies. The country rock of the field has been folded and faulted, and the occurrence of known reefs is associated with the fold axes and the faulting. The "lines" of the field are the anticlinal axes, and practically all known reefs are at or near centre country. Very little work has been done on the synclines, which may have some potential value.Quartz has been introduced along the fracture systems, and gives rise to the three main types of reef met with on the field, namely, the "back," which is similar to a bedded quartz reef and is formed along a bedding plane fault; the "saddle," which forms at the crest of the anticline and has the typical shape from which it takes its name; and "spurs," which are irregular masses of quartz, making off reefs of the first two types.As the fracturing throughout the field is widespread and fairly intense, the first problem, that of finqing quartz, is comparatively simple, and any regular system of blocking out the ground will be productive of quartz bodies.*Field Superintendent, Bendigo Mines Ltd. Assistant Field Superintendent, Bendigo Mines Ltd.

Jan 1, 1936

Study on Rational Process Flow Sheet for Beneficiating Low-Grade Cu, Mo, Bi, S, W Polymetallic Ore

Sep 13, 2010

A variety of cement raw materials occur within the Cenozoic sequence in Northland. These form the basis of Golden Bay Cement's cement manufacturing operation at Portland, Whangarei. High grade limestone is taken from the Whangarei Limestone formation, which has been shown to have been sub-aerially weathered and developed mature karst features prior to deposition of the overlying allochthon sediments. In this instance, remobilisation of allochthon sediments following uplift and erosion is inferred. At Portland Quarry, argillaceous limestone is extracted from deformed thrust sheets in the allochthon sequence. Quarry operations have been designed to handle the steep asymmetric folds, thrust faults and fracture zones that affect the resource.

Jan 1, 1999

Mond gas-producer tar, and, in fact, all tars obtained from the retorting of coal where steam and air are admitted to the retort, are of entirely different chemical composition to the ordinary coal tar made in the gas or coke works. These tars contain none of, the aromatic hydrocarbons - benzene, toluene, naphthalene, and anthracene, sought after by the ordinary coal-tar refiner.The distillation of Mond tar shows it to consist of phenols of high molecular weight, unsaturated hydrocarbons of high gravity and low viscosity, paraffin wax, and resinous substances of whose composition little is known.The physical properties of Mond producer tar are also peculiar. It has a "short," granular texture when cold, which might be likened to candied honey. It "dries" (hardens) when exposed in thin layers to the air, and, for a coal tar, it cannot be considered sticky. This latterò property, combined with the short texture, prevents its being used successfully for road-making or macadamizing.The drying properties and the paraffin wax contained in: this tar cause it to hold up large percentages of water, probably in the form of emulsion. When containing as much as 10% to 15% moisture it appears to be quite dry.

Jan 1, 1918

By C Maloloy-on, S Morgan, M Deiparine, H Mackie

There is a strong focus in the mining industry to limit its impact on water quality and usage. This is even more evident in developing countries, where mining companies operate within local communities and have to be diligent not to affect them negatively. In mineral processing operations, the vast majority of water reclamation occurs at the tailings thickener area and tailings storage dam. It is often more effective to maximise water recovery at the tailings thickener before material transport to the tailings dam. Tailing dams are relatively inefficient, and experience a high degree of water loss due to evaporation, seepage and water retention. In addition, tailings dams present the biggest environmental liability for mineral resource projects, so it is beneficial to limit their size and loading.In the past, it was common for tailings thickener areas to have a significant footprint with several large diameter conventional thickeners, producing underflows of between 45-55% solids (w/w). At times, these multiple thickeners were difficult to operate, leading to inefficiencies in water recovery and quality. The development of High-Rate Thickeners (HRT) has resulted in improved settling properties and HRTs usually operate at significantly higher solids loadings (= 1.2 t/m2.h) when compared to conventional thickeners (= 0.1 t/m2.h). Subsequently, thickener diameters have reduced in size and HRT technology has become the preferred option for thickener circuit design in both new and existing operations. HRTs also produce higher water recoveries with increased underflow densities = 55% solids (w/w).The Carmen Copper Corporation (“Carmen Copper”) circuit upgrade is a recent example of these HRT benefits, where one, 39 m diameter, Outotec HRT treats the solids flow rate of five 76 m diameter conventional thickeners. This has allowed operations to increase dry plant tonnage by 50%, maintain key performance targets and provide a framework for further plant expansion. This paper details the sustainable approach to the Carmen Copper tailings thickener upgrade, where metallurgical performance, cost-effectiveness and environmental impact were key considerations.CITATION:Morgan, S, Mackie, H, Maloloy-on, C and Deiparine, M, 2015. Carmen Copper – a sustainable approach to tailings thickener upgrades, in Proceedings MetPlant 2015, pp 416–430 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Sep 7, 2015

Fine coal is defined as material with a maximum size of 1/2 in. Various methods for separate washing of such coal are discussed briefly because separate treatment can lead to a higher overall recovery of coal or to a product having a lower ash content.A felspar jig is discussed in detail because it is the method most recently adopted in Australia, and because it has the advantages of compactness, flexibility and automatic Gontrol, with minimum operator attention. This jig has a variety of adjustable controls to enable the desired results to be obtained from a wide range of coals and the general application of each control is discussed.The only separate treatment of fine coal in the Illawarra district is by felspar jigs on Bulli seam coal.INTRODUCTIONAll reasonably large Australian collieries now win coal by mechanical methods. but while mechanization leads to more economic production of high tonnages, it also changes the characteristics of the coal won. In particular there is an increased proportion of fines, and an increased ash and moisture content. However, specifications of coal for sale have become more stringent, and consumers now require coals in a definite size range with a lower and more uniform ash content, as well as with a low and uniform moisturecontent.These factors have led to the need to wash and grade run-of-mine coal at the pithead. In' plants where the whole of the run-of-mine coal is treated in a jig, some of the fine coal in the feed is beneficiated; the extent depending on factors such as the type of coal and the feed rate. However, for dense medium treatment, fine coal must first be screened out, and there may then be no washing of fine coal at all.

Jan 1, 1961

By Taylor R. G

This paper reports a biogeochemical study of the Siberia lode of the Herberton tin field. Soil near the orebody contained high levels of Fe, Cu, Pb, Sn, As, Mld Mn. Polycarpaea spirostylis and Indigofera dominii were associated with these high levels but several other species apparently could not tolerate them. The potential of these species as indicator plants is discussed.

Jan 1, 1975

Simple quotation of quantities of coal reserves neglects the relationship between qualities of coals and their efficient use. If exploitation of a deposit is contemplated, its life expectancy can be deduced only if its reserves are estimated according to the coal user's technological standards. A wide range in properties will satisfy a steaming coal, whereas a high vitrinite high rank coal would be preferred for coking and a low inertinite low rank coal for conversion. In competitive trading the buyer's commercial specification may require weighing against the producer's practical ideals, especially when beneficiation is critical. Differentiation of grades in quality of a deposit provides an intelligent understanding of the economic importance of the deposit. The Wongawilli seam of the New South Wales Southern Coalfield exemplifies the effect of quality criteria upon the extent of in situ, recoverable and marketable classes of economic reserves. Effective management of a deposit will result from simultaneous quotation of coal qualities and quantities in a statement of its reserves.

Jan 1, 1979

Project delivery in our current market is not as efficient as it could be. Industry at large (both client and consultant), is diligently following the engineer, procure, construct, manage (EPCM) or engineer, procure, construct (EPC) delivery models and not necessarily appreciating the underlying principles that make them the effective tools they were to start with. We often misinterpret project management with EPCM and end up with a literal and superficial interpretation instead of the disciplined risk reduction and business value capture exercise it is intended to be. One of these underlying principles is the project team as resource or commodity depending on which perspective we follow. Some of us understand this principle only too well and succumb to the temptation to take advantage of the imbalance in the understanding of EPCM by selling bodies and hours. Value and return on investment do not always come into the equation. The latecomers and aspirants are struggling with this as a barrier of entry into this lucrative market, since as we all know - people as commodity was becoming and still is a scarce resource. Clients are also waking up and asking why 1000 engineers on the floor are better than 100, when engineering design in all aspects of industry, new technology aside, is mature. Why is it that we start with a clean sheet of paper with every project or that neighbours in the same industry segment and location just happen to have completely unique conditions and circumstances that require totally original design (Local conditions aside)? The answers to this question appear when we explore the role of the project team and how it is structured. We will need to investigate team culture and levers for success. Then we will formulate a business case for a team to be able to follow traditional project management practices with EPCM delivery models but yet end up with an alternative look, feel and result. An outcome where more input is not necessarily better and the client and consultant both are aligned with success measured in dollars and a win-win outcome for both parties.

Jan 1, 2009

By S Hapugoda

Iron ore oxide and oxyhydroxide minerals such as haematite (eg various types of martite and microplaty haematite), different forms of goethite, magnetite, hydrohaematite and kenomagnetite were analysed using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) techniques, to determine the type and proportion of deleterious elements present and the chemistry of associated gangue minerals. The aim was to characterise elements potentially deleterious for agglomeration and steelmaking, eg sulfur, phosphorus, aluminium and silicon and correlate their distribution with mineral texture and association, to provide feedback on downstream processing performance and product quality.Examples of characteristic mineral associations are shown from various genetic styles of iron ores, including magnetite banded iron formation (BIF), BIF-derived martite-goethite and skarn-type magnetite ores.A number of examples are presented demonstrating the benefits of the use of combined techniques of reflected optical microscopy, SEM and EPMA data to reliably identify ore and gangue minerals and their associations in different types of iron ores.

Jul 11, 2011

Study on New Tungsten Beneficiation Technological Flow Sheet of Shizhuyuan Polymetallic Mine

Sep 13, 2010