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By M. J. Laurila

On-line analyzers have made possible the use of Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) for local control applications in coal preparation plants. This includes FLC control of complete circuits such as heavy media vessels, cyclones and froth flotation. These circuits can be controlled in real time in a feedback control loop with an on-line analyzer. Control strategies can be readily developed using Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques which are first applied off-line in manual mode through the use of control charts and then this process is brought on-line using FLC in conjunction with an on-line analyzer to fully automate the circuit. This paper outlines the types of control strategies employed and presents examples of automatic verses manual control.

Jan 1, 1997

By C Munro, S Emery, M Flynn, K Tan

"AEROPHINE® 3418A Promoter is a well-known and widely used collector and is an industry standard for its excellent selectivity and efficacy in the processing of complex polymetallic sulfide ores, particularly those containing silver. Until now, however, it has not found widespread use in primary nickel flotation.In an effort to increase nickel recovery without compromising selectivity over iron sulfides, Western Areas Forrestania Nickel operation trialled the use of AEROPHINE® 3418A as a secondary collector at low dosage. A series of ON/OFF trials were conducted, with the finding that a very low dose of AEROPHINE® 3418A increased nickel recovery by 0.6 per cent compared to using xanthate alone.This paper provides a brief operational history and overview of the Forrestania operations, a description of the trial and an analysis of the results.Citation:Emery, S, Flynn, M, Tan, K and Munro, C, 2016. Aerophine® 3418A Promoter as a Secondary Collector to Boost Nickel Recovery at Forrestania Nickel Operations, in Proceedings 13th AusIMM Mill Operators’ Conference 2016, pp 145–148 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne)."

Oct 10, 2016

By T. Guler

Turkey has important celestite reserves in Sivas. These reserves have gypsum and/or calcite as gangue minerals. Celestite-calcite ore cannot be concentrated by gravity methods due to the low efficiency of gravity methods in fine sizes. Research was tried to concentrate celestite to a market grade by flotation. Parameters such as pH, particle size, dosage and types of collector and depressant were examined. Cyanamid A-845 and Na-oleate combination as collector, sodium silicate as depressant, and Aerofroth-65 as frother were found as the optimum flotation reagents. By applying 3-stage cleaning, a concentrate assaying 95,34 % SrS04 was obtained with 84,93 % recovery.

Jan 1, 1999

By David R. Delling

Tenneco is a large, diversified, energy-based company which has grown rapidly during its forty year life. We're the youngest corporation among Fortune's top 20 companies. Tenneco Minerals Company is the division of the Corporation responsible for nonfuel minerals exploration, development and operations. Tenneco Minerals Company is headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado. Exploration offices are in Colorado, Nevada, Alaska, and Perth, Australia. We currently operate two gold mines in Nevada and a large underground trona mine and soda ash processing plant in Wyoming. The latter has a capacity of 907 000 tonnes per year of soda ash and is the subject of my presentation today.

Jan 1, 1984

By Emily Wortman-Wunder

As the 2009 president of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc., I am pleased to present the 2009 issue of Transactions of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Vol. 326. A significant portion of the contribution that we as a society make is the publication of professional and technical papers that contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and information transfer. Communication within the mining community is the key to a successful society. Through the information-transfer mechanisms of books, magazines, meetings and electronic media, the technology exchange that is fundamental to the existence of the Society is accomplished. This technology exchange continues a tradition that dates back to the 1871 meeting of 22 mining engineers in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, that resulted in the founding of AIME; those individuals envisioned that these transaction volumes “would form a most valuable and greatly needed addition to our professional literature.” This volume certainly satisfies that intent. In keeping with SME’s tradition of promoting technological developments while honoring the past, the 2009 Transactions represents an important milestone. It is the last Transactions to appear as a bound volume. Future volumes will appear as e-books only, with some of the Transactions-only papers appearing online prior to the ebook (exactly what form the new Transactions will take is still in development). The decision to go to an all-digital format for this longstanding publication was a difficult one, but one which we hope will better serve the mining community, especially our international members. This 2009 Transactions of SME, Vol. 326, contains a total of 73 technical papers (510 pages), including all 23 papers (136 pages) that were published in 2009 in the Technical Papers Section of Mining Engineering magazine (Vol. 61) and all 32 papers (232 pages) that were published in 2009 in Minerals & Metallurgical Processing (Vol. 26). In addition, this volume contains 18 papers (142 pages) that are being published for the first time in this issue. The papers presented in this volume were written by some of the most distinguished professionals in the industry worldwide. All 73 technical papers were peer-reviewed and approved. The process of review and publication requires much hard work by authors, reviewers and publications staff. As the 2009 president of SME and on behalf of our members, I would like to extend our gratitude to all whose efforts contributed to the publication of this volume.

Jan 1, 2009

By PAUL L. DEAN

Industrial mineral deposits are widespread in Newfoundland and Labrador and a variety of commodities are produced. The province has the only pyrophyllite mine in Canada and also produces asbestos, gypsum, silica, barite, limestone, gemstones, cement and other structural materials. Large reserves of these and other industrial minerals are known and several deposits are likely future producers. Most producers are wellestablished and have large tonnages of ore reserves.

Jan 1, 1984

By A. R. Przybylek

A fluid bed dryer has been designed for a nonconventional application to upgrade the value of fine anthracite culm and silt recovered from culm banks and anthracite tailings pond beds. This material can be seen as large spoil piles scattered throughout the anthracite coal regions of Eastern Pennsylvania. Engineering of the system commenced in December of 1986 and at this writing start-up is scheduled for late October or early November of 1987. This paper will focus on generalities concerned With system design and operation, and qualify the differences from conventional fluid bed coal drying systems.

Jan 1, 1988

By Roy T. Sorensen

The Bureau of Mines has investigated the recovery of cell-grade alu-mina by RCI leaching of calcined kaolin in the alumina miniplant at its Boulder City (NV) Engineering Laboratory. Classification and thickening were used for separating aluminum chloride leach liquor from the siliceous residue generated in the acid leaching step of the clay-HCI process. Coarse solids were classified from fines at 115 mesh and countercurrently washed in three additional spiral classifiers. Fines were treated in a conventional five-thickener, countercurrent decantation circuit. When this method was applied to the solids-liquid separation of slurry from RCI leaching of minus lO-mesh calcined kaolin, 75 pct of the residue reported as classifier sands and 25 pct as thickener underflow. Predicted individual classifier and thickener area requirements were 6 and 25 ft2/tpd, respectively. Total thickener circuit flocculant requirement was 2.4 lb/ton solids. Aluminum chloride pregnant liquor was produced that analyzed 8.4 pct A1203 and contained more than 97 pct of the alumina in the liquid phase of the slurry. Bench-scale settling tests were used to correlate fines content of leach residue to thickener area and flocculant requirements.

Jan 1, 1983

By N Clarke, A Barros

Preconcentration of run-of-mine subgrade and marginal ore by screening has the potential to substantially improve the economics of mining, particularly for large, low-grade orebodies, and to reduce environmental impacts. It has recently been the subject of a major research effort by a joint public-private research body, CRCORE. Yet despite this, there appears to have been only one fully commercial installation, at Bougainville Copper Limited in the late 1980s. Two reasons for the limited application are that not all ores have suitable properties and the economics of all pre-concentration processes on low-grade materials are highly sensitive to the precise balance of mass and value recovery and to the pre-concentration process cost, including materials handling. These factors make it imperative to have good test data on the process response of feedstock across the orebody. Collecting that data presents major challenges, which differ for green and brownfields operations. This paper first discusses the approach to preliminary evaluation developed by CRCORE, which relies on testing of coarse rejects or drill chips available from exploration drilling programs. This method is an efficient first step in evaluating an orebody which is deemed geologically to be potentially amenable to screen upgrading, but it does have limitations and must be followed by larger scale work. A suite of methods have been developed by the authors as a result of test work since the 1990s on several projects, supplemented by published data, which aim to provide statistically robust data at lower cost than large scale bulk sampling tests. For greenfields projects, the upgrade response measured on material crushed to -53 mm has been found to correlate closely with ROM ore, with no scale-up required for material with upgrade responses in the range of commercial interest. Large diameter whole drill core, such as PQ, is expected to be suitable for this method. As drilling such core is costly, the aim should be to establish relationships between upgrade performance and proxy measurements such as multi-element chemical or hyperspectral analyses. This approach was successful at the Gramalote gold project in Colombia. The method is not applicable for ores with thick vein material comparable with the crush size, but such material is not suitable for upgrading by screening and would be eliminated by the preliminary testing. For brownfields projects where blasted material can be sampled, the upgrade response can be accurately measured by sampling only the finer fraction of the ore, selecting a top size which represents 30–50 per cent or more of the ROM size distribution. This is likely to be between 50 and 100 mm. The much finer size compared with the full ROM ore greatly reduces the sample mass required to achieve a given intrinsic sampling error and enables sample preparation to be undertaken with large-scale laboratory equipment rather than mobile crushing plant. The accuracy of the method can be improved by measuring the approximate mass of oversize rejected during sampling. Some ores do show a systematic deviation from the assumed model fit which results in this method slightly underestimating the upgrade response, and it would therefore still be recommended to take one or two full bulk samples to confirm results before a final investment decision.

Aug 24, 2022

By P Ring, B Cooper, C Carr, G Laing

The Nova Ni-Cu-Co Operation, located in the Fraser Range of Western Australia, commenced commercial production in July 2017 only five years after discovery. Owned by Independence Group NL (IGO), the operation has successfully ramped up over an accelerated schedule and currently deploying leading technologies. This paper begins with a description of the Nova Operation, and its journey to achieve full production in such a short time frame. It includes discussions on development and production design, selection of fixed plant infrastructure, and the features challenges of running a low-pressure primary ventilation circuit. The paper also discusses key technologies that have improved overall safety for the underground workforce, and improved operational efficiencies. Investigations continue into the implementation of further technological applications for safety and productivity enhancements. This paper also discusses the findings from a study into transitioning from a diesel to an all-electric underground mining fleet, based on a review of Nova if it were to be developed today with the current EV offerings. The study indicates compelling savings will be available to future mines when considering development design, project schedule, capital outlay and operational savings, and the ‘next Nova’ is expected to be all electric.

Mar 15, 2021

By Jian Zhou, Shuai Huang, Wenqin Xi, Kun Du

The deep oceans harbor a wide variety of mineral resources that are characterized by their abundance and high quality. Nations worldwide are actively pursuing the exploration and extraction of these resources. This paper provides a concise overview of the mineral resources found in the deep sea, highlighting the challenges associated with their exploitation. Furthermore, it presents a comprehensive analysis of the historical development of deep-sea mining technology and equipment, offering valuable insights into this field. By examining the current issues and obstacles faced in deep-sea mineral extraction, this study concludes that the future of deep-sea mining lies in the direction of automation, intelligence, and standardization. Additionally, it identifies the key technological advancements that need to be achieved in order to overcome the challenges associated with deep-sea mining.

Jan 5, 2024

By Edward Holloway

The basis for the selection of the ultimate pit for an open pit mining operation is generally opaque. Some form of value-based analysis will generally guide the final decision; however, the value will often gradually plateau whilst the ultimate pit size continues to increase. There is no established framework to guide specialists in the selection of the ultimate pit, with such decisions regularly made on a somewhat arbitrary basis. The key component that is missing from the analyses typically used to select the size of the ultimate pit is risk. Once risk is quantified within the analysis framework, the decision-making range is significantly reduced, and the process for selecting the ultimate pit becomes more consistent, replicable, and defensible. This paper provides an approach to including risk in the process used to select the ultimate pit.

Feb 21, 2024

By Edmund Newton

This paper is one of a series comprising the Mineral Industries Survey of the United States, which was begun in 1935. It describes the simple methods of mining and beneficiating manganese ore, in eastern Tennessee and compares these methods with those used elsewhere in the Appalachian region. The report contains general information on manganese to give a clearer understanding of the methods and costs of mining and. beneficiating manganese ore foam a widespread deposit, an in addition presents zone difficulties normally fond in these operations. The marketing, uses, and value of manganese ore are discussed as well as the amount of capital necessary for effective operation on given scale of production, and requirements are outlines for successful operation of manganese, property in this region.

Jan 1, 1941

The value of raw nonfuel mineral materials production totaled an estimated $19.7 billion in 1978. The record 1978 value exceeded by 13 percent the 1977 value of $17.5 billion. This raw mineral output was the basis for approximately $200 billion worth of processed materials of mineral origin. Output of both metals and nonmetals increased about $1 billion each, above comparable figures for 1977. Of the 22 metals produced quantitative output of 11 increased and the value of 13 increased. Among the 48 nonmetallic commodities produced, the quantities for 35 increased, and the values for 40 increased.

Jan 1, 1979

By M. H. Kline

The Cranberry magnetite deposits occur in pre-Cambrian granite-gneiss, in a belt extending from 3 miles southeast of Cranberry, N. C., to about 6 miles southwest of Magnetic City, Tenn. The belt forms a curve) elongated to the north, approximately 26 miles in length. The Bureau of Mines investigation has been confined to the eastern part of the belt, comprising the area from Fork Mountain, Avery County, N.C., to the Hcupscup Knob prospects in Carter County, Tenn. The deposits were worked at least us early as 1820. The Cranberry Iron & Coal Co. and its successors operated the Cranberry mine intermittently for about 50 years until 1930, when operations were abandoned.

Jan 1, 1948

By Thomas Fraser, M. G. Driessen

This report is one of a series written by members of the Solid Fuels Mission to Germany describing wartime developments in the mining , preparation, and utilization of coal . The mission was organized early in 1945 under the auspices of the Technical Industrial Intelligence Committee , which cooperated with a counterpart British Committee . Engineers from other allied countries cooperated in some of the investigations . The Solid Fuels Mission operated under the direction of a steering committee headed by Dr. C. J. Potter , deputy solid fuels administrator . The personnel of the mission consisted of H. F. Yancey , in charge , J. W. Buch , Thomas Fraser , L. L. Newman , and L. D. Schmidt , of the Bureau of Mines ; H. H. Lowry , Director of the Coal Research Laboratory , Carnegie Institute of Technology ; H. J. Rose , vice president and director of research , Bituminous Coal Research, Inc .; and F. H. Reed , chief chemist , Illinois Geological Survey . Over 50 reports were written by the members of the Solid Fuels Mission . These and microfilms of supporting data obtained in the course of the investigations are on file at the Bureau of Mines , Washington , D. C. where they are available for public examination . The Office of the Publication Board in the Department of Commerce is prepared to furnish photolith copies , photostats , or microfilm reproductions of all declassified reports . A Bibliography of Scientific and Industrial Reports is issued weekly by the Department of Commerce , Office of the Publication Board , and is sold by the Superintendent of Documents , Government Printing Office , Washington 25 , D. C. , on a subscription basis . An initial payment of 10 dollars will provide for approximately 9 months , and subscribers will be notified when additional remittance is necessary . All subscriptions will begin with volume 1 , No. 1 , unless ordered otherwise . The Bibliography covers all materials and subjects and gives instructions for obtaining the desired items . The reports of the Solid Fuels Mission relate to the following general subjects : Mining methods in the Ruhr district of Germany , with special reference to mechanical cutting and loading equipment , pneumatic packing , and Diesel mine locomotives ; activities of industrial research laboratories supported by the German coal and coke industry ; coal preparation in western Europe ; low-temperature carbonization processes ; metallurgical coke from weakly coking coals ; low- ash electrode carbon from coal ; new developments in the production of metallurgical coke and the utilization of gas and byproducts ; briquetting brown coal and bituminous coal without the use of binders ; recent engineering developments in gas turbines and steam generators , with special reference to use of coal ; German coal-fired heating and cooking stoves; and the commercial extraction of coal with solvents for production of synthetic liquid fuels or chemical products . Numerous reports on the activities of German synthetic - liquid -fuels plants and the plants for the production of synthesis gas from solid fuels are available in the same office as the Solid Fuels Reports . It is planned to publish in this series of Information Circulars the more important reports or combinations of reports prepared by the members of the Solid Fuels Mission . A similar series on synthetic - fuel activities is being prepared .

Nov 1, 1946

By White L. R, Boger D. V

The paper describes the surface chemistry and particle physics that control the fundamental flow properties (Theology) of mineral particle slurries. We further address, through a series of case studies, the design data that emerges from experimental studies of the flow properties of complex, high volume fraction mineral slurries. The case studies are drawn from mineral oxide concentrate processes, tailings dewatering operations and from filter cake production and management. The paper emphasises the essential links between design of process slurry handling systems and the control of the flow of such slurries by control of the pulp chemistry.

Jan 1, 1992

By E. A. Roux

As the first mine-to-metal zinc operation utilising atmospheric leaching, solvent extraction and electrowinning, Skorpion Zinc faces unique challenges and opportunities. One of these challenges is found in the solvent extraction circuit, in which di-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) is used as the organic extractant. Although D2EHPA is an excellent extractant for zinc, it suffers from the co-extraction of ferric iron, which is produced during leaching and by the corrosion of the grinding media. This situation is partially mitigated by iron precipitation in the neutralisation step prior to solvent extraction. Unfortunately, some ferric iron still reports to the solvent extraction process. This leads to a slow build up of iron in the organic phase. Chemical stripping is used to maintain the Fe concentration at an acceptable level. In this paper, the efficiency of the iron removal process is discussed.

Jan 1, 2006

By Wei Qu, Yongsheng Song, Xingyu Liu, Wenjuan Li, Shuang Liu, Guiying Zhou, Bowei Chen

The Pb,Sb,Zn multi-metal sulphide ore is processed in sequence of beneficiation of jamesonite, sphalerite . Due to relative large amount of collector (xanthate), activator (CuSO4) and regulator (lime) during different flotation stage, the flotation wastewater from sphalerite beneficiation stage can’t be directly recycled to the first lead flotation stage. In this paper, the flotation wastewater from sphalerite beneficiation stage was treated by Ozone and BAC technology, results showed that when the influent concentation of COD and copper ion were 850 mg/L, 10.48mg/L respectively, the Ozone and BAC technology could effectively treat such type of water. In the treated wastewater, the COD is 60mg/L, copper ion concentration is 0.023mg/L, pH is 7.0, which satisfy the need of Pb,Sb-Zn preferential floatation separation process. After recycle of the treated wastewater to Pb,Sb floatation circuit, qualified Pb,Sb concentrate and Zn concentrate were obtained.

Jan 1, 2014

By D. W. Frommer

Laboratory mineral-dressing investigations were conducted on talc-bearing samples from Arkansas and Texas under the Bureau of Mines program of examinations and surveys, which is concerned, in part, with the improvement of conservation and utilization of domestic mineral resources. Two of the soapstones in question were successfully upgraded by flotation, utilizing stage additions of a frother and an amine to promote their talc content. The process could enable the producers to meet more rigid specifications of higher priced talc commodities. INTRODUCTION Talc is an industrial mineral with distinctive properties, such as softness, smoothness, large surface area in relation to mass, chemical inertness, and good retention as a filler, that make it particularly valuable to a number of industries. Sales to 6 industries -ceramics, paint, insecticide, rubber, roofing, and paper -consumed 84 percent of the domestic production of talc, pyrophyllite, and ground soapstone in 1952. Mine production in that year totaled 600,908 tons. Sales of crude and ground material were 593,147 tons valued at $11,347,317.2/

Jan 1, 1956