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By Petre Stelian Nita

In small steelmaking shops, in foundries and forging plants, there are not too many option to recycle the basic slags, which are not suitable for many purposes of recycling, because of their low chemical and structural stability. A solution of an adequate recycling is a direct recycling in EAF. Several quality requirements, physico-chemical properties and proportions of slags must be analysed. The progress in this fields permites to establish an adequate proportion of recycled slag, based on enough exact computation of the related property. For oxydizing slag, obtained during melting and in the first part of decarburization operation, the problem of phosphoms contents can be analysed using the phosphate capacity (C PO34-). For reducing periods, during deoxidization operation, desulphurization also occurs and the problem of the sulphur contents can be analysed using the sulphur and sulphide capacities ( Cs / Cs) Between this two complex thermodynamic indicators of the slags. a direct relation is established, using thermodynamic aspects, resulting from the equilibrium constants for dephosphorization and desulphurization process and also, using the optical basicity of slags, computable from the chemical analysis of the slags. On this basis starting from the steel quality requirements. adequate strategies can be established in order to obtain high rates of recycling (between 50-80%) of steelmaking slags. Important cost savings are obtained through this procedure, based on the correct amounts of the fresh lime, iron ore and fluidizers. Keywords: Slag, Properties, Recycling

Jan 1, 2003

By B. T. Brady

Laboratory measurements by the Bureau of Mines indicate that failure in dry rock specimens measuring approximately 13 cm in length is preceded by tilt anomalies lasting a few milliseconds. The tilt behavior is qualitatively similar to that reported to precede earthquakes. Test results suggest that the time duration of this tilt anomaly for laboratory specimens of this length is independent of rock type, in agreement with theoretical predictions and other experimental data on rock failures including earthquakes.

Jan 1, 1975

By A. D. K. Laird, John A. Putnam

This paper describes the application of x-ray theory to design procedures in connection with fluid saturation determinations during fluid flow experiments with porous media. A reliable and rapid method for calibrating the x-ray apparatuy is described. Extension of the method to fluid saturation determinations in three-fluid systems is described. INTRODUCTION In rerearch on oil production problems a method is required which will give quickly the quantity of each component of a fluid flow system present at any cross-section of a porous medium. The sample of porous medium under investigation is usually referred to as a core. The ratio of the volume of one component to the total fluid volume is defined as the saturation of the porous medium by that component. This ratio is generally given as per cent saturation. Some means of measuring saturation which have received consideration include: electrical conductivity of the fluids;1,2 emissions from radioactive tracers dissolved in the fluids; the radioactivity of silver caused by reflection of neutrons from hydrogen atoms in the fluids;' the attenuation of a microwave beam. the diminution and phase shift of ultrasonic wave trains.4,5 and the reduction in intensity of x-ray beams in passing through the fluids. X-rays have already been used with some success. Since every material has a different power to absorb x-rays, the reduction in intensity of an x-ray beam as it passes through a core depends on the fluids present. The strength of the emergent beam can be found by converting its energy into a measurable form such as heat or ionic current. or by its effect on a photographic plate or fluorescent screen. The beam strengths could be interpreted as quantities of known fluids in the core if, previously, these beam strengths had been identified with a known combination of the same fluids. With some fluid cornbinations it might be desirable to dissolve powerful x-ray absorbing materials in one or more of the fluids, to increase the differences in the beam strengths for various fluid saturations. Boyer, Morgan and Muskat6 have described a method of measuring two component fluid saturation. One component was air or water; the other. minerat seal oil in which was dissolved 25 per cent by weight of iodobenzene to increase its absorbing power. The x-ray source was a tungsten target tube operated at 43 kv potential. The beam emerging from the core was measured as ionic current flowing across an air-filled ionization chamber by means of an amplifying circuit and galvanometer. Another portion of the beam from the x-ray tube was passed through a metal plate and measured in another ionization chamber. This portion, called the monitor beam, was used as an indication of the performance of the x-ray tube. The galvanometer readings were calibrated against air-oil core saturations, gravimetrically determined. The method was apparently established by experimental means. In the present investigation the available theory of x-radia-tion was surveyed with a view to extending the usefulness of the method and to developing design procedures for its application to measurement of fluid saturation in porous media. Application of the theory permits prediction of relative meter readings to be expected for any combination of porous matrix, various saturating fluids and auxiliary filtering media. It is thus possible to calibrate the equipment in terms of fluid saturation by an indirect but rapid technique. The results of calculations based on x-ray theory indicate. and results of the saturation calibration technique confirm. that a valid measurement of the saturation of the core can be made for any two components and in some cases for three components. THEORY The strength of an x-ray beam, after it has passed through a distance. 1, of matter of density, p, and mass absorption coefficient, µ at a given wavelength, A, may be expressed by the absorption formula I = I0 e ...........(1) where I, represents the intensity of the incident x-ray beam and I is the intensity of the emergent beam. The expression e is called the transmission factor of the material. The variation of I,, with wavelength depends upon the materials through which the x-ray beam has previously passed and upon the spectral distribution of energy at the source of the x-radiation. A group of curves. called spectra. which show the variation of intensity with wavelength and x-ray tube voltage are given in Fig. 1. These curves represent the general radiation from a tungsten target tube. When the tube voltage is greater than 69.3 kv, the characteristic radiation of the tungsten is emitted and is superposed on the general radiation. At a given voltage the minimum wavelength A,,,,, at which energy can be emitted by an x-ray tube is given by the formula 12,340 xml. = ——..........(2) volts where A,.,,.. is in Angstrom units. The wavelength at which the spectra have maximum intensity a1so decreases with increasing x-ray tube voltaue. The area under each curve represents to an arbitrarv scale the total energy emerging from the x-ray tube for that voltage. The variation of µ with wavelength has been determined for many substances and may be found in such references as those by Compton and Allison7 and by Hodgman.8 The phenomenon of absorption is composed chiefly of the capture of photons by the atoms of the absorbing material with associated displacement of electrons, and of the scattering, or the deflection, of the photons by the atoms. Curves of these mass absorption coefficients show jump discontinuities. or absorption edges. at wavelengths which are short enough for the photons,

Jan 1, 1951

By John A. Putnam, A. D. K. Laird

This paper describes the application of x-ray theory to design procedures in connection with fluid saturation determinations during fluid flow experiments with porous media. A reliable and rapid method for calibrating the x-ray apparatuy is described. Extension of the method to fluid saturation determinations in three-fluid systems is described. INTRODUCTION In rerearch on oil production problems a method is required which will give quickly the quantity of each component of a fluid flow system present at any cross-section of a porous medium. The sample of porous medium under investigation is usually referred to as a core. The ratio of the volume of one component to the total fluid volume is defined as the saturation of the porous medium by that component. This ratio is generally given as per cent saturation. Some means of measuring saturation which have received consideration include: electrical conductivity of the fluids;1,2 emissions from radioactive tracers dissolved in the fluids; the radioactivity of silver caused by reflection of neutrons from hydrogen atoms in the fluids;' the attenuation of a microwave beam. the diminution and phase shift of ultrasonic wave trains.4,5 and the reduction in intensity of x-ray beams in passing through the fluids. X-rays have already been used with some success. Since every material has a different power to absorb x-rays, the reduction in intensity of an x-ray beam as it passes through a core depends on the fluids present. The strength of the emergent beam can be found by converting its energy into a measurable form such as heat or ionic current. or by its effect on a photographic plate or fluorescent screen. The beam strengths could be interpreted as quantities of known fluids in the core if, previously, these beam strengths had been identified with a known combination of the same fluids. With some fluid cornbinations it might be desirable to dissolve powerful x-ray absorbing materials in one or more of the fluids, to increase the differences in the beam strengths for various fluid saturations. Boyer, Morgan and Muskat6 have described a method of measuring two component fluid saturation. One component was air or water; the other. minerat seal oil in which was dissolved 25 per cent by weight of iodobenzene to increase its absorbing power. The x-ray source was a tungsten target tube operated at 43 kv potential. The beam emerging from the core was measured as ionic current flowing across an air-filled ionization chamber by means of an amplifying circuit and galvanometer. Another portion of the beam from the x-ray tube was passed through a metal plate and measured in another ionization chamber. This portion, called the monitor beam, was used as an indication of the performance of the x-ray tube. The galvanometer readings were calibrated against air-oil core saturations, gravimetrically determined. The method was apparently established by experimental means. In the present investigation the available theory of x-radia-tion was surveyed with a view to extending the usefulness of the method and to developing design procedures for its application to measurement of fluid saturation in porous media. Application of the theory permits prediction of relative meter readings to be expected for any combination of porous matrix, various saturating fluids and auxiliary filtering media. It is thus possible to calibrate the equipment in terms of fluid saturation by an indirect but rapid technique. The results of calculations based on x-ray theory indicate. and results of the saturation calibration technique confirm. that a valid measurement of the saturation of the core can be made for any two components and in some cases for three components. THEORY The strength of an x-ray beam, after it has passed through a distance. 1, of matter of density, p, and mass absorption coefficient, µ at a given wavelength, A, may be expressed by the absorption formula I = I0 e ...........(1) where I, represents the intensity of the incident x-ray beam and I is the intensity of the emergent beam. The expression e is called the transmission factor of the material. The variation of I,, with wavelength depends upon the materials through which the x-ray beam has previously passed and upon the spectral distribution of energy at the source of the x-radiation. A group of curves. called spectra. which show the variation of intensity with wavelength and x-ray tube voltage are given in Fig. 1. These curves represent the general radiation from a tungsten target tube. When the tube voltage is greater than 69.3 kv, the characteristic radiation of the tungsten is emitted and is superposed on the general radiation. At a given voltage the minimum wavelength A,,,,, at which energy can be emitted by an x-ray tube is given by the formula 12,340 xml. = ——..........(2) volts where A,.,,.. is in Angstrom units. The wavelength at which the spectra have maximum intensity a1so decreases with increasing x-ray tube voltaue. The area under each curve represents to an arbitrarv scale the total energy emerging from the x-ray tube for that voltage. The variation of µ with wavelength has been determined for many substances and may be found in such references as those by Compton and Allison7 and by Hodgman.8 The phenomenon of absorption is composed chiefly of the capture of photons by the atoms of the absorbing material with associated displacement of electrons, and of the scattering, or the deflection, of the photons by the atoms. Curves of these mass absorption coefficients show jump discontinuities. or absorption edges. at wavelengths which are short enough for the photons,

Jan 1, 1951

By David J. Forrester

Light metals, most commonly aluminum, magnesium and titanium, and alloys containing them, are used in many industrial applications where lightness, hardness, ductility and resistance to corrosion are needed. However, these metals and their alloys can be potential ignition sources in underground coal mines. There have been documented cases in the past where coal mine explosions have been attributed to firedamp/coal dust ignitions involving light metals or their alloys. When light metals and their alloys are brought into contact with oxygen bearing material, such as iron oxide (rust) in the presence of heat, then a "thermite" reaction can occur. This source of heat can be generated from frictional contact or from merely a glancing blow. This paper outlines the hazards associated with light alloys, how to address the hazard and regulatory aspects.

May 1, 2001

By A. T. Churchman

The deformation modes of rhenium have been identified as those typical of the hexagonal metals, titanium, zirconium, and beryllium whose c/a ratios, in common with rhenium, are less than ideal for close packing. Slip is observed on (1010), (1011), and (0001) planes and twinning on (1121), (1122), and (1012) planes. The very high rate of work hardening is believed to be associated with intersecting partial dislocations on two (1010) systems which can combine to form sessile barriers. If the stacking fault energy is low, as postulated by Seeger, these barriers should be strong and not easily bypassed by cross slipping. Such an explanation could also account for the very small temperature dependence of the yield stress which was observed. RHENIUM is interesting scientifically as a member of the group of high melting point hexagonal metals: titanium, beryllium, and zirconium with a c/a ratio less than that for ideal close packing. Unlike them, however, it work hardens at a very high rate. This rate is greater and continues to a much higher degree of deformation than for nickel, normally considered to have a high rate of work hardening. This paper presents experimental observations on the modes of deformation of rhenium and, by comparison with other hexagonal metals, some speculation on the cause of the high work hardening. MATERIALS Johnson, Matthey rhenium powder of both 99.9 pct and 99.5 pct purity, see Table I, was compacted at 10 tons per sq in., part sintered at 1350°C in vacuo, and finally arc melted in a "gettered" argon atmosphere arc furnace to produce small buttons. Little difference was observed in the as-cast hardness or working down behavior of the two purities suggesting that either silicon and potassium do not have a significant effect on the working properties of rhenium or they were lost during arc melting. SPECIMEN PREPARATION The cast structure was broken up by cold-rolling with inter-stage annealing at 1600o or 1800°C in a vacuum high-frequency furnace using a tungsten susceptor. Strip for tensile testing was taken from two thicknesses of material 0.011 and 0.064 in. The former with intermediate anneals at 1800°C had a grain size of 900 grains per sq mm, while the latter with inter-stage annealing at 1600°C had a grain size of 3600 grains per sq mm. A coarse grain size was obtained by secondary recrystallization in a half button cold-worked by 30 pct reduction. Annealing times of from half an hour to several hours at 2200° to 2600°C in a "gettered" argon atmosphere arc furnace1 resulted in grains of up to 2 mm diam.

Jan 1, 1961

By G. E. Keller

In connection with the work of Committee D5, Coal and Coke, of the American Society for Testing and Materials in developing new standards and improving old standards, series of tests were made to check the variance of sample preparation and analysis of American coals. Table I in the "Tentative Method of Preparing Coal Samples for Analysis - 02013-62T" is rather complicated, and the tests were designed to develop data for the simplification of this table. An allowance of 20% of the total variance of sampling and analysis for the sample preparation and analysis steps was used. Also, instead of coals being grouped into ash ranges, they were grouped as washed and raw (unwashed) coals. As a result of these tests, a simplified Table I for Tentative Standard 02013 has been proposed. A standard test for laboratories to check their variance of sample preparation and analysis has been developed. Committee D5 on Coal and Coke of the American Society for Testing and Materials has been making a study of all standards applying to coal for the purpose of improving and bringing them up to date and for breaking some of the existing standards covering a number of tests into single standards. As an illustration, sample preparation is now partly covered in ASTM Designation D492-48, Sampling Coals Classified According to Ash Content, and partly in ASTM Designation D271-58, Laboratory Sampling and Analysis of Coal and Coke. The latter contains, in addition to parts of sample preparation, methods for determining Moisture, Ash, Volatile Matter, etc. Although revision of sampling methods and sample preparation methods are now assigned separately, it is possible that they may end up as one standard. One of the first new Tentative Standards developed as the result of these studies was ASTM Designation D2013, Tentative Method of Preparing Coal Samples for Analysis. Although this method is quite an im- provement over that in the old standards and gives very specific instructions, Table I (attached) is quite complicated and rather hard to understand. In order to take advantage of reduced quantities or weights, it is necessary to know the ash content within rather narrow limits before sample preparation and no distinction is made as to whether the coal is cleaned or uncleaned. No limits of accuracy are assigned to the sample preparation and analysis. The total over-all accuracy of sampling, preparation and ash determination as given in D492-48 has been specified for commercial sampling procedure as follows: "This procedure is intended for an accuracy such that if a large number of samples were taken from a single lot of coal, the test results in 95 out of 100 cases would fall within ? 10 per cent of the average ash content of the sample." Although Appendix 11, Method for Determining the Over-All Variance of Reduction and Analysis in the Tentative Methods for Mechanical Sampling of Coal, ASTM Designation D2234-63T, does give a method for determing the over-all accuracy of preparation and analysis expressed as variance and also the F test, it does not permit the determination of the variance at the various stages of reduction or of the ash determination. It was decided in 1961 to ask a number of laboratories to run a series of tests for the purpose of determining the variance at various stages of reduction and analysis with the view of simplifying Table I of the Tentative Standard D2013-62-T. This paper is a record of this series of tests with recommendations which resulted from the tests. At the same time and preceding these tests the International Organization for Standardization under Committee TC/27 WG 7 was studying the same problem. Tomlinson1 of England and Dr. paul2 of West Germany had made studies giving quite a bit of information. Also Schwerd and coryel13 published some information which was the main basis for the Mechanical Division provision in ASTM Tentative Standard D2013-62T, Table I. In checking with the various laboratories which offered to cooperate in these tests, none was found which used mechanical division through the entire preparation procedure. It was then decided to use riffles at all stages with the thought that if riffles gave satisfactory variances, approved mechanical

Jan 1, 1965

By V. Saltas

The present work investigates whether dielectric spectroscopy can be used to detect contamination, which may appear in a natural porous material, due to the spreading of pollution. For this purpose, dielectric and conductivity measurements, in the frequency range of 10mHz to 1MHz, were carried out in sandstone samples, partially filled or saturated with solutions of leachates, at different concentrations. The experimental results suggest that although the role of water is dominant to the measured electrical conductivity, variations of two orders of magnitude are observed due to the different concentrations of leachates, in partially filled sandstone samples. Experimental data are well fitted with a Havriliak?Negami dielectric relaxation function, superimposed with a conductivity term. The parameters of the fitting function have been correlated to the concentration of leachate in the sandstone samples and considerable changes have been observed at low leachate?s concentration.

Jan 1, 2005

By B. A. Kutlin, S. A. Ropeyko, N. A. Yurlova

"The aim of NPO RIVS research and practice activities is to minimize impact of the mineral processing plants (MPP) on environment by using new concentration methods, high-technology equipment, implementation of engineering solutions directed to reduce emission of polluting substances (PS) into atmosphere, application of low-waste technologies, decrease of water withdrawal from a surface water or groundwater source for process needs. In our studies environmental safety of mineral flotation is provided through technologies using highly selective chemicals, that leads not only to reducing reagent consumption, and production of saleable products of high content of extracted minerals, but also to reducing pollutant emissions, decreasing supply of surfactants (SAA) in natural geosystems, primarily, in ground and surface waters. Decrease of water withdrawal from a surface water or groundwater sources for process needs can be achieved by using closed circuits and waste water treatment for further use in process operations, recycled water conditioning to obtain optimum quality parameters for process operations of concentration. Concentration in water (wet processing), tailings dewatering and semidry and dry (filtration cake) stockpiling in tailing ponds, efficient dust-collecting systems contribute to pollutant emission reduction. Use of mineral wastes – concentration tailings as a source of valued components, facilitates efficient use of natural resources and reduces wastes and its impact on natural ecosystems due to smaller areas of damaged lands during waste products disposal. Process and engineering solutions of NPO RIVS that allow diminishing impact of MPP on natural environment (NE) have been implemented in mining and processing complexes of Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Kirghizia and Mongolia. Compliance with environmental safety requirements contributes to enhancement of mineral processing and sustainable mineral development.INTRODUCTION Mining and processing complexes have a significant impact on environment as a result of extraction and recovery of mineral resources, landscape changes, waste disposal and, as a consequence, pollution of soils, surface and underground water sources. Therefore, the aim of the operation of the mineral processing enterprises in its research and practical activities is to reduce impact on environment due to new beneficiation technologies, high-technology equipment, implementation of engineering solutions directed to reduce emissions of polluting substances (PS) into atmosphere, use of low-waste technologies, decrease of water withdrawal from a surface water or groundwater source for process needs. Compliance with the requirements of environmental safety encourages advancement of mineral processing technologies and sustainable mineral development. Concentration in water, tailings dewatering and semidry and dry (filtration cake) stockpiling in tailing ponds, efficient dust-collecting systems contribute to pollutant emission reduction. Use of mineral wastes – concentration tailings as a source of valued components, facilitates efficient use of natural resources and minimizes waste formation and its impact on natural ecosystems due to reduction of damaged land areas during waste disposal."

Jan 1, 2018

By M Miettinen

That microorganisms, both living and dead, and products derived from the organisms, can function as flotation agents and flocculation agents is abundantly clear. They can modify the surfaces of minerals. They can function as flotation collectors and as flotation depressants and activators. In many cases they or their products can function as specific flocculation agents. Problems that must be solved before such microorganisms or products from the organisms can be used in commercial operations include culturing the organisms at a cheap cost and reduction in dosages required for various separations. These tasks are formidable. However, the concept of using such natural materials in place of various chemical reagents that may be toxic is very attractive. An attempt is made to show some of the promise of microorganisms in mineral bioprocessing and to consider the problems that must be overcome before commercial application of the technology is realised.

Jan 1, 2005

A philosophy is presented that new graduates in mining and metallurgy should be equipped to use computers during their under- graduate courses, should be aware of the capabilities and costs of a wide range of computing equipment, and should receive sufficient stimulus to become involved in applying computers for the benefit of the mineral industry. A program is presented in which computer applications and "hands on" involvement with computers are integrated into the progressive stages of the undergraduate courses in Mining and Metallurgy. In this respect, the role of the computer is to assist the student by performing time consuming tasks, to demonstrate the industrial applications of computing, to extend the scope and complexity of the tutorial, assignment and project work which can be undertaken by the student, and to provide the essential first stepping stones toward continued useful involvement with computers during the graduate's working life.

Jan 1, 1977

By K. E. Lasaridi

Increasing soil organic matter was considered to be an important factor for the establishment of vegetative cover in abandoned quarries of perlite and bentonite in the island of Milos. For this reason, the feasibility of composting local organic wastes and by-products for use as a soil amendment was examined in this study. A mixture of organic wastes of vegetative origin and seaweed, in proportions that correspond to local material availability, was composted in laboratory scale reactors and the composting progress and compost quality were evaluated. Temperature, airflow and respiration rate were continuously monitored and various compost quality parameters, such as C/N ratio, nitrate nitrogen and seed germination were analysed. Addition of inorganic nitrogen was necessary for the biodegradation of the substrate, while the main problem for the compost utilisation was related to its high electrical conductivity, characteristic of seaweed containing mixtures, which further increased with nitrogen addition.

Jan 1, 2002

By Neill B. K, Fander H. W, Wong K, Dunlop G, O&apos

Commercial interest in refractory gold is increasing rapidly. This trend is supported by the work patterns of Amdel, where, apartfrom routine process- ing of free-milling and refractory ores, the majority of testing now includes biological and pressure oxidation studies to enhance gold recoveries. Central Mineralogical Services have examined, among other ores, an apparently unique type of refractory coating. A summary is given of experience at Optimet Laboratories, Pty., Limited. Research into nitric acid pre-oxidation, underway at the South Australian Institute of Technology since 1987, has shown significant improvements in gold recoveries, and in some cases, large reductions in reagent consump- tions. Three final-year student research projects were undertaken in 1990, jointly between the University of Adelaide and the S.A. Institute of Tech- nology. These projects involved biological pre-oxidation, pressure leaching, and Scanning Electron Microscope examination of refractory ores, and the resultant pre-oxidation and cyanidation products.

Jan 1, 1991

By H. Attia, S. Engin

This paper presents a practical approach for determining the optimal spindle speed and the depth of cut in a milling operation within the ever-increasing economic and technical constrains. Analytical modeling and experimental work has been carried out to predict chatter in such operations. The stability lobes determined from this analysis were then used as a constraint in the optimization of the cutting process. The optimal cutting conditions are determined for two different objectives: maximum metal removal rate and minimum cost per unit. It is demonstrated that this approach can be generalized to impose multi-level constrains, e.g., surface integrity and machining accuracy. The approach presented in this work was examined and validated on three NC milling machines. The productivity improvement, cost reduction, while respecting part quality requirements, is demonstrated.

Jan 1, 2006

By Rodger E. Denison

The Middle Ordovician Simpson Group in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma contains sandstones of unusual purity. These have been exploited as glass sands since 1913 (Ham, 1945). Where quarried, the sandstones are uncemented or weakly cemented, greatly facilitating mining and processing. The origin: sedimentary setting, and lack of cementation of these valuable sands has been the source of much discussion. The lowest of the sandstone units in the Simpson is at the base of the Oil Creek Formation. The basal Oil Creek sandstone is exposed in a series of accessible quarries north of the town of Mill Creek in Johnston County. Virtually all conclusions and generalizations concerning origin of the Simpson sandstones are based upon observations made in these quarries. The three Simpson sandstones overlying the Oil Creek share many of the same distinctive qualities, and there is an assumption that they share a common origin.

Jan 1, 1999

By J. Kemeny, K. Girdner, M. A. Lowery

A strategy for proactive blast planning to improve the postblast fragmentation size has been implemented at the Phelps Dodge Morenci Mine. This strategy was developed in specific phases that include stabilization of blasting practices, systematic changes in blast design and quantification of the size distribution of blasts. Implementing this new strategy would not be possible without an accurate method for quantifying the postblast fragment size distribution. The Split image processing system is now being used to assess fragmentation size using muck pile digital imaging taken on a daily basis and an online fragmentation analysis system installed at the primary crushers. Drilling and blasting variables and fragmentation size are entered into a database, spatially evaluated in a geographic information system and subsequently utilized for mine planning purposes. Using this strategy, significant improvements have been made in postblast fragmentation and continued improvements are expected in the next several years.

Jan 1, 2002

By Robert L. Lagace, Alfred G. Emslie

This report presents a mathematical model for the propagation of UHF radio waves in the large cross-section tunnels of a room and pillar limestone mine, and describes the analysis of a small amount of propagation data obtained in a limestone mine. The model and analysis is based on the waveguide mode theory developed earlier for the transmission of UHF waves in coal mine tunnels, with allowance for propagation losses due to refraction into the tunnel walls, to scattering by wall roughness, and to long range random tilt of the walls. Propagation around corners and through pillars is also examined based on a ray theory approach, together with the beneficial effects of placing reflectors at intersections to significantly reduce corner losses. The theory is found to be in fair agreement with the data; however, additional in-mine measurements are needed to provide a more conclusive test of the model.

Jan 1, 1979

By R. D. Stover, F. O. Shuck

The variation of binary-diffusion coefficients with composition in the liquid Bi-Sn system at 300°C was measured using the capillary-reservoir technique. The experimental coefficients did not exhibit a simple composition dependence. A number of tests were also made to determine the effect of variation of density with composition on convection within the capillaries. These tests indicate that the density changes arising from composition duferences may give rise to high diffusion coefficients unless care is taken to maintain a stable configuration. In recent years there has been considerable interest in diffusion in liquid metals. However, the bulk of the work done to date has involved measurements of self-diffusion or diffusion of dilute concentrations of "solute" metals. Because there are possible applications to liquid phase processing of metal alloys and since additional data may help to clarify the nature of diffusion in liquid metals, investigations of the concentration variation of diffusion coefficients in binary alloys have been undertaken. Of past studies only two have covered large ranges of binary composition. Niwa et al.' investigated the Pb-Sn, Bi-Pb, and Bi-Sn systems and Grace and Derge2 investigated the Bi-Pb system. Because of the discrepancy between the data of these investigators, it was deemed desirable to check the possibility of convection arising from the variation of density with composition. The capillary-reservoir technique of Anderson and saddington3 was chosen for the present investigation since it has been widely used for measurements involving dilute solute concentrations and it was the technique used by Grace and Derge.2 It was necessary, however, to modify the normal procedure of using a pure metal bath to avoid measurement of integral diffusion coefficients over large concentration ranges. The alloy system chosen for study was the Bi-Sn system for which there are some data available.' EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE In order to utilize the capillary-reservoir technique for measurements of diffusion coefficients as a function of composition, it was necessary to modify the normal procedure slightly. This modification consisted of using a reservoir composition which was only slightly different from that in the set of capillaries, in order that the integral coefficients measured might be taken over a small composition range and might thereby be assumed to approximate the differential coefficient at some average composition between that of the capillary and that of the bath. It was found that a composition difference of approximately 0.10 mass fraction provided a satisfactory compromise between a small increment in composition and reasonable accuracy in measuring changes of composition. The alloys were prepared from tin and bismuth of 99.999 pct purity. The materials were first cleaned of surface oxides, then weighed and melted to form a homogeneous alloy in a Pyrex filling apparatus. The capillaries used were of precision bore Pyrex tubing 1.000 *0.005 mm bore. Capillaries of various lengths (from 2.85 to 5.85 cm) were cut and sealed at one end by fusing a 3-mm Pyrex rod to the end. The capillaries were filled by inserting them into the filling chamber, evacuating the chamber, submerging the capillaries, and pressurizing the chamber with argon. Two sets of capillaries were prepared for each run. One set contained an alloy more dense than the bath alloy and one set a less dense alloy. This procedure was followed so that the effect of density difference on the measurement could be determined. After filling one set of capillaries, these were placed open end up in a capillary holder and transferred to the diffusion chamber which consisted of a Pyrex tube inserted into a graphite block. The second set of capillaries was then filled and placed into the diffusion chamber. The reservoir alloy, which had been melted in a separate crucible, then was poured carefully into the diffusion chamber. Sufficient reservoir alloy was used to cover all capillaries to a depth of several centimeters. All of these operations: capillary filling, melting of alloys, and diffusion anneal, were carried out in a fused-salt bath which maintained a temperature of 300"*1°C. All capillaries were permitted to diffuse for approximately 48 hr. At the end of the diffusion period the capillary holder was removed from the bath and

Jan 1, 1969

By Earl M. Frizzell, Ronald W. Utley

Introduction For the past several years the Bureau of Mines has undertaken research to develop alternative mine material haulage systems that will improve mine productivity, reduce haulage costs, increase mineral availability, and conserve energy. One basic concept being pursued is a means for crushing primary blasted rock to a size that can be reliably and economically moved on conveyors. During 1980, mine requirements for this equipment and the capability of existing technology to satisfy these requirements were assessed. The study continued into 1981 on the basis that satisfactory equipment for this purpose needed to be developed. The objective of the 1981 program was to perform an engineering design of such a system. A mine survey and equipment development study was conducted in cooperation with the open-pit mining industry by GATX through its subsidiaries, Fuller Co. (a crusher manufacturer) and GARD Inc. (GATX's research and development center), under contract to the USBM. Results of a mine survey in the copper, iron, and molybdenum industries indicated that a universal crusher system could be developed even though details might vary from mine to mine. The crushing characteristics, including tonnages desired, were similar in all surveyed mines. Most mines had similar views about the desirability and frequency of crusher movement. The perceived need for in-nit crushing varied between copper and iron mining. The copper mines felt a greater sense of urgency for introduction of such a system, probably because typically greater vertical haulage is found in copper mines than in the iron mines. All mine personnel surveyed were interested in portable crushers and almost universally preferred gyratory-type primary crushers. They preferred large crushers, citing inherent reliability and durability, and the machine's relative freedom from clogging. Large size minimizes the number of crushers and conveyors needed. Analysis of desired crusher system characteristics (Table 1) fixed the crusher size at 1.5 x 2.3 m (60 x 89 in.). The 1.5-m (60-in.) feed-opening dimension could accept the largest material normally fed to the crusher, and the 2.3-m (894n.) head diameter could fulfill the 3.63 kt/h (4,000 stph) capacity requirement. Selected System Description The comments and analyses discussed in the contract report led to the design and refinement of a movable crusher system. This system represents the consensus of more than 100 mine workers and almost 50 construction and engineering company personnel. It is supported by more than 50 years of experience in crusher manufacturing. Although many alternatives are available for any given system, and selections are likely to be dictated by varying site conditions, the selected system is believed to be appropriate for most projected requirements. Final design would be dictated by mine operators during evaluation for approved projects. Detail design of the feed and discharge systems were not included in the study because they are mine specific. The basic system (Fig. 1) consists of a 1.5 x 2.3-m (60 x 89-in.) gyratory crusher on a structural steel frame. The frame is used as an operating platform for the crusher and as a carriage to move the crusher. The control tower includes a crusher lubrication room, a hydraulic equipment room, a switch gear room, a room for the motor control center, and a control room for operating the crusher and maintaining the equipment. The auxiliary system consists of a hydraulic rock hammer and pedestal crane with 74-t (80-st) and 14-t (15-st) hooks. Figure 1 also shows stairs, railings, and a work platform. Feed and discharge arrangements are shown on Fig. 2. The system shown is for mildclimate applications. Additional enclosure and heating would be needed for extremely cold weather conditions. Crusher A 1.5 x 2.3-m (60 x 89-in.) gyra¬tory crusher was selected for this application. This size can handle the typical throughput of 3-3.63 kt/h (3,500-4,000 stph) desired by the mines and the 1.3-m (50-in.) material to be crushed without difficulty. The crusher is the heaviest

Jan 4, 1983

By G. E. Keller, G. D. Coe

Several methods have been devised for rapid determination of sulfur in coal using a high-temperature combustion furnace. The fundamental principles of the various methods are similar but the techniques vary widely. The method described herein is no different in principle from some of its predecessors but varies considerably in technique. Originally devised to overcome the low-accuracy criticism leveled against the others, the tube-furnace method has proved successful for limited applications. Work is being done to widen the applicability of the technique. Subsequent to the work of A. Vita1 in 1920, a number of investigators have published data dealing with the rapid determination of sulfur in coal using a high-temperature combustion furnace.2-5 These, together with several unpublished methods, involve wide differences in technique although they are all similar in principle. Investigation of typical details of procedure showed that poor precision or accuracy could be attributed to one or more of the following: 1) inadequate quantity of sample to be representative, 2) a delivery tube temperature too low to confine condensation to a washable area of the tube, 3) no provision for back washing the delivery tube, 4) incomplete absorption of the sulfur compounds due to inadequate bubbler, and 5) the false assumption that all of the sulfur is evolved as sulfur dixoide. The method herein discussed is no different in principle from some of its predecessors; the differences are in technique. Although the method is rapid—a determination can be completed in 5 min— accuracy has riot been sacrificed in order to achieve speed. MATERIALS AND EXPERIMENTAL WORK Fig. 1 shows the arrangement of the equipment. A metered volume of oxygen is passed through calcium chloride for removal of moisture, then through Ascarite for removal of carbon dioxide, and thence through a glass tee to the feed end of the combustion tube. Connected to the side arm of the glass tee is a rubber tube that is closed with a pinch clamp during combustion of a sample. The products of combustion are expelled through a Vycor bubbler, the end of which is submerged 3 cm below the surface of a 1 pct hydrogen peroxide solution contained in a 300 ml high-form beaker. At the completion of the 4-min combustion period the contents of the beaker are titrated to a yellow end point, using a methyl red indicator, with 0.05 N sodium hydroxide (or sodium tetraborate). The pinch clamp on the tube leading from the tee in the oxygen line is then opened and mouth suction applied to draw the hydrogen peroxide up into the bubbler past the ell, almost to the rubber tube connecting the bubbler to the combustion tube. This washing of the bubbler is repeated until no further acid reaction with the indicator is obtained. The hydrogen peroxide-sul-furic acid solution is then titrated to the final yellow end point. Test work conducted at the Robena Laboratory disclosed the following critical conditions that had important bearing on the precision of the method: Weight of Sample: Several series of tests wherein the sample weight ranged from 0.1 to 0.5 g of -60 mesh coal showed that the lowest variance (standard deviation squared) resulted from the use of 0.5-g samples; the variance was slightly greater when 0.3-g samples were used, and with less than a 0.3-g sample weight the variance increased rapidly with decrease in weight. Although the use of a 0.5-g sample invariably resulted in a very slight explosion as soon as the sample entered the hot zone of the combustion tube, this did not detract from the precision of the method. Temperatures: Mott and Wilkinson5 found that a combination of low temperature (1250°C) and low oxygen flow rate (less than 700 ml per min) tended to give high results due to formation of oxides of nitrogen. Although the method herein employs a much higher oxygen rate than 700 ml per min, as an additional precaution to assure accurate results, 1315°C (2400° F) is recommended as the most desirable furnace temperature. The temperature of the elbow of the bubbler should be at least 75°C to minimize condensation

Jan 1, 1961