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By K. Brady

Making progress on sustainable development will require greater attention to the management of materials produced from mine exploration through use to reuse, recovery and recycling. Material stewardship is a concept that embodies the range of activities required for optimal and appropriate use of minerals and metals in society. The following paper provides an overview of some recent initiatives that promote the stewardship of minerals and metals in society. The initiatives described are being conducted by organisations ? the International Zinc Association, the Canadian Copper & Brass Development Association and the International Council on Mining & Metals. These associations illustrate stewardship activities at three different levels: - an international association representing companies that produce a range of minerals and metals; - an international commodity association; and - a regional association. For each initiative, information is presented on its development, scope and outlook. This paper draws heavily from work of the associations but the viewpoints are the responsibility of the authors.

Jan 1, 2007

By John R. Coulson

Each State and the Federal Government was surveyed for existing certification requirements, the industry yes surveyed for the needs for training blasters, and the training that was available. Recommendations for training and certification for blasters were made.

Jan 1, 1980

By B. M. Harra, O&apos

Zinc smelting is frequently termed a backward art. The term is hardly true, for great progress has been made in recent years in the design and in the thermal efficiency of the retort furnace, in the quality of retorts, in the recovery of zinc, and in the ability to treat more impure and complex ores. The fact remains, however, that the peculiar physical and chemical properties of zinc have delayed such immense advances-large smelting units, high recovery, low-unit costs, and ability to treat low-grade ores-as have been made in the metallurgy of lead and copper. In current retort-smelting practice, the ores, if carbonates, are calcined to remove carbon dioxide; or, if sulphides, are roasted to remove sulphur. The sulphur must be eliminated as completely as possible, usually to less than 1 per cent. This means that the roast must be continued for a long time at a high temperature, with resulting high cost and small capacity per furnace. The roasted ore is mixed with about 50 per cent of its weight of reducer, which may be fine coke, anthracite, or nonbituminous coal. This mixture is charged into horizontal fire-clay retorts. The retorts used in this country are about 8 inches in internal diameter by 4 feet in length and hold 50 or 60 pounds of ore. The diameter of the retort is limited by the time required for the heat to penetrate to the center of the charge; the length by the strength of the retort, which at the high temperature employed can not support the weight of the charge if the span is more than about 50 inches. The retorts are heated externally by coal, natural gas, or producer gas to a temperature of 1,200° C. or more. The zinc oxide is reduced to zinc, which is volatile at this temperature, and passes into a conical fire-clay condenser attached to one end of the retort, where it condenses to liquid zinc and is removed. Twenty-four hours are required for distillation, and because of the low heat conductivity of the retort walls and of the ore charge itself, the heat efficiency even of the most modern regenerative furnaces is only about 12 per cent. The retorts have a short life, 30 to 60 days, at the high temperature required; zinc

Jan 1, 1923

By Q. X. Yun

This paper provides a new approach to optimize the production planning in underground mines by means of evolutionary algorithms. Firstly, genetic algorithm is used to reach the global optimization in planning. Then, evolutionary programming is employed to obtain the partial optimization for each year. The application proves that the new approach is reasonable and useful. Keywords: Evolutionary algorithm, Genetic algorithm, Evolutionary programming, Optimization, Mining engineering.

Jan 1, 2003

By Luana de Sousa Santos

O setor Petróleo e Gás Natural vem tendo enormes gastos com as paradas de manutenção. Estes gastos estão relacionados à degradação sofrida por seus equipamentos de refino devido à corrosão. Uma possível solução seria a utilização de novas ligas de aço inoxidável ferrítico com elevados percentuais de molibdênio, o que teoricamente favoreceria um aumento da resistência à corrosão. No entanto, pelo fato dessas ligas serem aplicadas na condição como soldada mudanças microestruturais significativas podem ser geradas, além de considerar o fato da solda das ligas em estudo ser realizada com material dissimilar, e a diferença existente entre o metal de adição e a região afetada pelo calor (ZAC) pode propiciar ao surgimento do fenômeno eletroquímico conhecido como pilha galvânica. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o comportamento corrosivo na solda dissimilar de duas novas ligas de aço inoxidável ferrítico com diferentes teores de cromo e um elevado teor de molibdênio, ambas com adição de superliga de níquel, verificando a influência da pilha. O resultado da soldagem foi avaliado através de exames metalográficos e ensaios eletroquímicos. As micrografias do metal de adição utilizado na soldagem das ligas mostraram que o mesmo possui uma microestrutura dendrítica e os gráficos obtidos dos ensaios de Polarização Potenciodinâmica Cíclica não reproduziram para as ligas soldadas, o que foi melhor analisado observando os resultados dos ensaios de forma separada, para as regiões que constituem a solda das ligas, o metal de adição e ZAC. Sendo possível verificar a existência de uma maior resistência a corrosão no metal de adição.

Aug 8, 2018

By K. Ihara, R. Akiyoshi, Y. Takaki, S. Kang, H. Shishido

"Tensile tests and scanning electron microscopy-electron backscattered diffraction (SEM-EBSD) analysis were performed in an Al-Mg-Si alloy to clarify the effect of annealing and cold-rolling reduction on the texture formation. The hot-rolled specimens were cold-rolled with the reduction of 58-75%(CR1), followed by annealing at 773 K for 5 min(IA). The secondary cold-rolling(CR2)for the IA specimens with the reduction of 33–66%, followed by the solution heat treatment(ST), were performed. Focusing on the CR1 and CR2 specimens, the average r-values increased with higher primary and lower secondary cold-rolling reduction, respectively. This was considered to be due to the increase of r-values measured in the direction of 45 degree with respect to rolling direction, caused by the formation of the ß-fiber components (Brass {011}<211>, Copper {112}<111> and S {123}<634>) with high density. Based on the texture analysis of annealed specimens it was suggested that the high density of the ß-fiber components after IA and the small amount of stored strain energy of CR2 introduced by the lower cold-rolling reduction remained the ?-fiber components even after solution treatment.INTRODUCTION Al-Mg-Si alloys have been applied to automobile body applications, due to their excellent paint-bake hardening (age-hardening) and corrosion resistance compared to other aluminum alloy. On the other hand, the mechanical properties and deep drawability of Al-Mg-Si alloys are inferior to those of steels. Thus, it is important to improve the mechanical properties and deep drawability in order to expand the application components. One of the best methods to improve the deep drawability is to increase the Lankford coefficient (r-value). Previous studies reported that the increase of the average r-value ( ) improves the deep drawability. The relationship between the r-value and texture of the alloy is also well known. Inoue et al. reported that the ß-fiber components, such as Brass ({011}<211>), Copper ({112}<111>) and S ({123}<634>), increase the r-value measured in the direction of 45o with respect to the rolling direction. r"

Jan 1, 2018

By P. Danson, D. A. White, S. Bashir

Composite ion exchange materials made of SnO2, TiO2 and MnO2 can be used to remove radioactive contaminants from nuclear waste streams. In several cases their selectivity and capacity are enhanced by mixing hydrous silica into the matrix. MnO2-SiO2 materials are especially useful for a number of reasons, such as their selection of heavy elements over caesium. Distribution constants and determinations of exchange capacities show that in many instances the properties of the composites are better than those of the oxides alone, while the presence of a chelating agent has been found to reduce the uptake of nuclides considerably. Methods are being developed for the bulk manufacture of the materials. Further work on sorption mechanisms is required to explain anomalous results, particularly the variation in exchange capacity for different elements and the ability of the oxides to sorb colloidal material in alkaline solution.

Jan 8, 1992

By G. Bourque

One of the design criteria for the Mount Wright facilities was to incorporate the latest proven automation techniques and devices for the new crushing, grinding and concentrating plant. The heart of the centralized control system is a Fox 1 process computer, located in the central control room in the administration building. The entire operation, i.e. crushing, conveying, storing, grinding and concentrating, is monitored and controlled, through the process computer , by one operator via a CRT console. In case of computer failure, the control is automatically, and without process interruption, transferred to manual back-up panels. One of the newest management tools, the process computer is programmed to collect and automatically print out shift. daily and monthly reports on tonnage, metallurgy and equipment operating time, for better planning of operations and preventative maintenance.

Jan 1, 1977

By P. Sauriol

This work addresses the design challenges and demonstrates the capabilities of a novel water transfer factor measurement apparatus. Several measurement concepts were screened on the basis of their water transfer factor accuracy using Monte-Carlo generated virtual experiments. The most promising measurement concept was assembled and tested to assess its actual measurement accuracy. For these concept validation experiments, the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell was simulated by adjusting the water injection rate to corresponding levels. Combining the anode and cathode measurements, the water transfer factor accuracy was typically better than 0.01. Real-time measurements of the water transfer factor on both anode and cathode sides of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell were achieved. The anode and cathode side measurements were in good agreement with each other; however the anode side measurements were generally more reproducible. A parametric study showed that stream humidification plays an important part in the water transfer across the membrane electrode assembly. Finally the water transfer factor along the channel of a 300cm2 co-current fuel cell was obtained by using a series of six 50cm2 sub cells. The results were in good agreement with predictions from a recently proposed model.

Jan 1, 2005

The revised estimate of coal production in January 1977, is 39 million tons -- down 12 mi 11 ion tons compared with production in January of last year, largely as a consequence of the snow storms and cold. The major coal-hauling railroads operating in Eastern and Midwestern States reported to the Bureau of Mines that they loaded approximately the same number of cars for the week ended February 5, as in the preceding week. The Bureau of Mines estimates that U.S. coal production for the week ending February 5, 1977, was approximately 8.5 million tons, or nearly 3.5 million tons less than production for the corresponding week in 1976. Coal production from January 1 - February 5, 1977, was approximately 47.8 mi 11 ion tons compared with production of 63.5 million tons for the corresponding period in 1976. As of the first week in February, river and truck shipments of coal in the Eastern U.S. were about one-half of the normal traffic. Despite the freezing weather and ice and snow conditions of rivers and highways and reduced rail shipments, there was reportedly little or no shortage in coal supply to consumers. Inventories at electric utility plants and steel company coke plants at the beginning of the severe weather were sufficient in most cases for at least 30 days" operations. There have been no reports of coal shortages at other industrial plants.

Jan 1, 1977

By A. C. Fieldner

ONE of the important functions of the Bureau of Mines is the, analysis of coal from every coal-mining State and Alaska. These analyses are being published for use of Government officials and the public. In connection with analytical data showing composition and quality of coals of the States, consumers, Producers, and the general public will be interested in a brief description of the geologic structure of the coal basins, typical mining conditions in the several districts, and the principal economic data of the industry. These publications have therefore heel) designed to include such features to present concisely the principal facts regarding occurrence, reserves, duality, characteristics, production, and uses of coals of each producing State.

Jan 1, 1952

By C. Xiao, F. Mohamm, A. Borsoi

"Nitrogen compounds produced by cyanide destruction and/or blasting are often a cause of concern for environmental compliance and at times, for water re-use in metallurgical circuits. Natural attenuation in tailings ponds and wetlands is not always sufficient to ensure compliance and/or achievement of overall water management objectives. This paper provides a general overview of active treatment methods for nitrogen management followed by an investigation of selective adsorption combined with electro-oxidation as the potential treatment method for thiocyanate. Results from bench scale treatability study are presented. The concept of holistic assessment of nitrogen management at mine sites using Risk Adjusted Life Cycle Cost is introduced and discussed in the context of gold mining operations using sodium cyanide.INTRODUCTION Unlike metals, nitrogen compounds present in mine waters originate entirely from anthropogenic sources rather than mineral deposits. Table 1 summarizes the main sources of nitrogen compounds reporting to mine wastewater.The best management practice related to the use of ANFO involves minimizing contact between ANFO and water, control and monitoring of blasting to reduce the occurrence of misfires, and reducing the consumption of blasting reagents for a given ore body. The most common practice for the management of NaCN is the incorporation of cyanide destruction in the metallurgical flowsheet and the use of tailings impoundments and holding ponds for natural attenuation of cyanide destruction residues such as NH4-N and CNO. At most mine sites there is no active management of NO3-N and SCN in wastewater. While current practices have produced satisfactory results, new enhanced methods to manage nitrogen compounds at mines are needed due to: 1) Increased scrutiny over the adverse effects of nitrogen compounds released into the environment; 2) New effluent standards; and 3) The shift away from wet tailings towards dry stack systems resulting in diminished natural attenuation and dilution of nitrogen residues prior to effluent discharge or water re-use in mineral processing."

Jan 1, 2017

By JIACHENG XIE, XUEWEN WANG, QINGBAO BAO, ZEWEN YAN

The general application of memory cutting technology to shearers is improving the intelligence of the working face, but it has its limitations. It is only suitable for conditions where the environment of coal seam is changing slowly. It compensates for the cutting height by changing the fuselage attitude, and frequently adjusts the height to control the learning cutting trajectory, but due to the problems of shearer control and height adjustment accuracy, it cannot adapt to and compensate for the change of cutting height in a timely manner, resulting in poor cutting accuracy. This study puts forward a virtual memory cutting method based on prediction of the shape of the armored face conveyor (AFC). The integrated key technologies include generation of virtual teaching cutting curve, height adjustment strategy of front and rear drums, cutting

This paper will review some of the work conducted in the past at the Dynamic Effects Laboratory to examine the use of stress waves and fracture mechanics in understanding dynamic fracture and fragmentation in blasting applications. Along the way, we will use photoelasticity and high speed photography to better understand the mechanisms of fracture and fragmentation.

Jan 1, 2015

By D. Odendaal, S. Bharat, R. D. Cromarty

The aim of this investigation was to determine the effect of high-temperature heat treatment on the electrical resistivity of charcoal. Samples of two different wood types (eucalyptus and black wattle) were pyrolised in a retort at a temperature of 700°C and the resulting charcoals heat-treated in an induction furnace at temperatures from 800°C to 1800°C and residence times from 60 to 120 minutes. After cooling, the resistivities of the samples were measured at room temperature using the four-point probe technique. It was found that as the heat treatment temperature increased the electrical resistivity of the charcoal decreased, approaching an asymptotic value at higher temperatures. Longer residence times decreased the resistivity, but this effect was not pronounced.

Oct 3, 2023

By A. O. Dufresne

WITHOUT transportation, mining would be quite impossible. Any person familiar with the operation of a mine knows full well that from the minute ore is blasted, it is kept moving until it reaches the treatment plant. In the mill, by means of conveyors and elevators, the ore is brought from receiving bins to one machine after another until finally its valuable mineral is separated from the gangue. The finished product must then be shipped -either by boat, rail, or motor trucks to industrial centres, where it undergoes further treatment and transformation into finished commercial goods. Everybody appreciates that the winning of an or-e includes, amongst various operations, the moving of large quantities of material of generally low value. Transportation, therefore, must be considered One of the most important factors in the economics of mining. My assignment, this afternoon, is not to treat of that phase of transportation as it directly affects mining operations, but rather to consider some of the aspects of overland transportation and its influence in bringing about the development of mining camps in Canada. I shall take the liberty of rapidly surveying conditions facing prospectors, mine developers and operators from the time a region is still in a pre-pioneering stage until such time as a mine starts shipping its concentrates.

Jan 1, 1956

Weekly Capacity ? Current Schedule Rate (198.5 tonnes / hour) X Skip Time (112.7 hours) X Effectiveness (85%) = Weekly Capacity (19,015 tonnes) Capacity Conclusions - Existing hoists optimized are best option for Fraser Morgan (>20M + schedule for other). - Peak will have to be managed. - Critical to have equipment & infrastructure in best possible condition to ensure reliability.

Feb 1, 2008

By M. Fan, H. E. Wyslouzil, J. Kohmeunch

Eriez HydroFloat(TM) separators and Canadian Process Technologies (CPT) flotation columns have been developed to overcome the limitations of traditional flotation cells in recovering coarse and fine particles, respectively. The flotation column can effectively separate 30-5 µm phosphate. Several industrial-scale HydroFloat separators have been installed in phosphate and potash beneficiation plants. Industrial-scale ultra-coarse (+850 µm) phosphate separation results suggest that a more-than 40% BonePhosphate- of-Lime (BPL) recovery increase and a 37% collector consumption reduction can be achieved. The paper describes the applications of Eriez HydroFloat separators to coarse particle separation and the CPT flotation column to fine/ultrafine particle flotation.

Jan 1, 2009

Blastserve, ISEE’s Listserve is being replaced by our new Blasters Forum-online, an exclusive member benefit. Our goal is to provide an ISEE forum for you to network with your peers and exchange technical information and get answers to your technical questions. This forum is unique in the fact that only ISEE members are permitted to review or post on the site. Over time you will be able review the discussion history and use the archived discussion as a valuable resource for trends in the industry. The following are a sample of the discussions that too place recently on Blastserve

Jan 1, 2013

By S. B. Robertson, D. R. Dolinar, G. E. Hinshaw, G. M. Molinda, D. M. Pappas

Rock falls in coal mines cause many injuries each year. Most of these injuries are not caused by major roof collapses, but from falls of smaller rocks from the immediate top or roof skin. Even though safety professionals and mine operators strive to reduce these types of injuries, there has not been a substantial decrease in the rock fall injury rate over the past decade. Various surface controls are used in mines to control the roof skin. One control that has proven to be very effective is roof screening. Roof screen effectively controls roof skin and provides a high roof surface coverage. Although many mines are reluctant to use screen for primary skin control because of the additional costs of time and materials, others are having great success at controlling both the costs and surface rock. In this study, injury data are presented that show a dramatic reduction in roof skin injuries when screening is used. Much of this success is due to the protection from falling rock that the operators receive from roof screen. Five case studies in which roof screen was used are presented along with the associated costs of materials, impact on bolting advance rates, and potential ergonomic risks. The effects of roof screening on skin control and safety are also included. Finally, this paper provides information about best practices and features of roof bolting machines that affect production and safety.