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By B. J. Moore

This publication contains analyses and related source data for 675 natural gas samples from wells and pipelines in 24 States and 5 foreign countries. The samples obtained and analyzed during calendar year 1980 are included in tables 1-4. Those samples included in tables 5-7 were collected during the years 1960 through 1979. However, permission to publish the analyses of those samples was not given until the past year when the operators were again contacted to seek release of the information. All of these samples were collected as a part of Bureau of Mines investigations of the occurrences of helium in natural gases of countries with free market economies. This survey has been conducted in the United States by the Bureau of Mines since 1917. In late 1965, the survey was expanded to include foreign gasfields. The analyses published herein were made by mass spectrometer and a special helium analysis apparatus, which are described in Bureau of Mines Bulletins 4862 and 576. The results of the investigation of the occurrences of helium are published annually to make the information available as soon as possible to the gas industry and the general public. Twenty-two previous publications have presented the results of 12,152 gas analyses made prior to 1980. The first three, Bulletins 486,' 576,5 and 617,6 contain analyses and related source data on 5,218 gas samples collected from 1917 through 1980. The other

Jan 1, 1981

By A. J. Farstad

Recent advances in microcomputer technology have opened the way for systems which can track the location of underground mining personnel from the surface. A computerized system has been designed which is capable of not only tracking the location of the miner but also of monitoring underground parameters, communicating between work stations and sounding alarms when underground conditions are judged to be unsafe. For the system described herein, the locations of the underground personnel are detected by a network of underground terminals which routinely emit RF pulses to interrogate miniature transponders worn by the miners. Each transponder is uniquely programmed to delay its response in such a way that the RF terminal can identify the individual transponders by the time slots in which the responding pulses are received. The underground terminals are then interrogated by the host computer on the surface which keeps a running account on underground mine conditions and personnel. The underground portion of the system is designed to operate even during mine emergencies, deriving its power from rechargeable battery supplies which are float charged during normal operation. Nine mines were visited on this program and the industry reaction to the system was generally favorable. By slanting the system design for daily use in the mine, the chance of its acceptance by the industry is enhanced. Furthermore its likelihood of being operational in the event of an emergency is significantly increased.

Jan 1, 1981

By Frederick C. Trutt

This report is intended as a reference for personnel interested in the computer anlaysis of coal-mine-electrical-power systems under either normal operating conditions or fault situations. The procedures developed for this purpose are described and implementation considerations are discussed with respect to the mine-power system. Considerations for choosing a solution technique and a number of examples are included. Procedures described include the Newton-Raphson iterative technique for the analysis of normal operation as well as a non-iterative Z-bus technique for analysis of unbalanced or balanced faults. During program development, strict attention has been given to the inclusion of core and/or time saving techniques such that these algorithms may be implemented on small as well as large computers. Program languages include FORTRAN IV for batch processing applications and APL or BASIC for interactive applications.

Jan 1, 1981

By R. A. Isberg

This report describes the design and implementation of UHF radio and closed-circuit television systems in the Black River room and pillar limestone mine near Butler, Pendleton County, Kentucky. Prior to designing the radio system, measurements of signal attenuation on 812 and 466 mHz were made in the slope tunnel and in the straight and level crosscuts in the mine. Two distributed antenna systems fed by two sets of base stations provide approximately 75o coverage of the mine. Passive reflectors are used for extending signals into intersecting crosscuts and two-way signal boosters will be used to extend signals to the perimeter and obstructed areas of the mine. Fourteen mine vehicles were equipped with mobile radios equipped with digital identification, alarm and status encoders. Fifteen portable transceivers also were used. Six closed-circuit television cameras provide surveillance of critical transfer points of the belt conveyor system, and the loading dock at the base of the slope and an ash disposal area in the mine. Two-way radio communication and closed-circuit television have saved considerable man. hours, increased production, reduced maintenance costs and enhanced safety. Innovative developments were the use of passive reflectors and two-way signal boosters for extending signals into intersecting crosscuts, development of lightweight signal margin measuring equipment, modifications of mobile digital encoders to automatically send status information from mine vehicles such as numbers of loads of ore delivered, hot engine, etc., and the use of CATV technology for multiplexing audio, digital and video signals onto coaxial cables from the surface to the mine.

Jan 1, 1981

By K. E. Robinson

Appendix A is an abridged extract of the report prepared by the Geotechnical and Structural Engineering Society of Idaho, and presents the results of their one-year study to evaluate the feasibility of disposing mill tailings by landfill construction. Appendix B describes the field and laboratory testing program completed by RDM to assess the effectiveness of a soil (slimes) liner as a means of seepage control to reduce the introduction of contaminants into the local ground water regime. Appendix C presents a summary of a thesis by Lawrence Martin on the analysis of the acid production potential of mill tailings, and the results of geotechnical testing of mill tailings completed by ROM. Appendix D describes potential landfill sites identified within the study area, the development of these sites to meet the present needs of the mining industry and the future requirements of the community is described. Appendix E summarizes the main legislation impacting on tailings disposal. Appendix F discusses the environmental and socio-economic factors that should be considered.

Jan 1, 1981

By George W. Toth

Uranium in situ leach mining has recently emerged as a viable alternative to conventional miring techniques. The cost implications of in situ mining are therefore of increasing interest to mining paracticioners as well as public officials. This report presents the results of an assessment of uranium in situ leach mining costs through the application of process engineering and discounted cash flow analysis procedures. A computerized wasting technique, termed a cost model, was developed through this effort to facilitate rapid cost analyses. Application of this cost model will generate mine life capital and operating costs as well as solve for economic production cost/lb. U308. Conversely rate of return may be determined subject to a known selling price. The data bases of the cost made! have been designed to reflect variations in Texas vs. Wyoming site applications. The results If applying the model under numerous ore deposit, operating, wellfield and extraction plant conditions for Texas and Wyoming are summarized in the report. Sensitivity analysis of changes in key project parameters have also been tested and reported.

Jan 1, 1981

By Michael L. Clar

This volume is an annotated bibliography of published literature pertaining to the occurrence and control of surface and groundwater in underground coal mines. This literature was used to develop Volume 1 of this report, which assesses the feasibility of water diversion and overburden dewatering for underground coal mines in the Appalachian Region. Each abstract is followed by subject descriptors. the abstracts are listed alphabetically by title and are numbered consecutively. These numbers are used in the subject index to help the reader locate the appropriate articles.

Jan 1, 1981

By J. Cseff

A variety of shaft and hoist equipment exists in the United States. Nearly all hoist systems are electrically driven. Machine elements which comprise the hoists and ancilliary equipment include bearings, shafting, drums, gear reducers, couplings, brakes, clutches, sheaves and electrical motors. Volume I, Systems Description, describes the various components encountered in most mine hoist and shaft installations, and brief descriptions of functions and constructions. Hoist ropes and balance ropes are specifically excluded from this report. Associated with the hoisting system is the headgear, shaft and equipment, loading/dumping facilities and the actual conveyances and their rope attachments. Volume II, Inspection and Maintenance Procedures, discusses scheduled Inspection and preventative maintenance in general terms. Preventive scheduled inspection and maintenance procedures assist in the smooth operation of mine hoisting plant, by the prevention of unscheduled or catastrophic equipment failure and its attendant downtime. Schedules and overall maintenance planning is required at the management level. Records and equipment logs must record inspection and maintenance, and unusual operations or incidents. A cross reference between MSHA regulations and various equipment components is included as part of the report. A discussion of the various non-destructive testing methods which may be applied to hoisting equipment is also included.

Jan 1, 1981

By Robert D. Perry

This report describes methods of reclaiming abandoned or inactive tailings ponds and dams. The investigated sites were selected tailings deposits adjacent to metal mines in the southwestern United States and the Pacific Northwest. The basic data developed for each site consisted of the following: a review of existing literature: a site visit that included sampling of the tailings and surrounding materials; laboratory and engineering studies; and development of reclamation plans. Laboratory tests determined the gold and silver content of each tailings deposit and the chemistry of the tailings and surrounding materials. Reclamation plans that include approximate costs were developed for five tailings deposit sites. These ranged in size from 52,000 to 103,000,000 tons. Our conclusions on the remining potential of each site are based on the tailings assay and other technical data. This study concludes that remining as a reclamation tool is feasible at certain sites. Included in this report is a remining program as part of the overall reclamation plan for two sites. Our preliminary results indicate that remining as a reclamation tool is feasible for only one of them.

Jan 1, 1981

U.S. Minerals Coordinating Council Advised. -The Critical Materials Act of 1981, H. R. 4281, introduced on July 27, would create a Council on Critical Materials in the White House Executive Office to oversee Federal materials programs involving $1 billion committed to research by 14 agencies, and to serve as the President's focal point to evaluate materials policy. It was introduced by Congressman Fuqua (D-Fla.) whose Committee on Science and Technology has over-sight over the implementation of P. L. 96-479, the National Materials and Minerals Policy, Research and Development Act of 1980. Bulgaria's Mineral Bank. -Recently Bulgaria established a mineral bank to facilitate receipt of foreign credits for exploiting Bulgaria's mineral raw materials. The bank has wide powers to enter into business arrangements with foreign creditors. Bulgaria's main interest in trading with the West is to import the technology for developing energy and mineral resources.

Jan 1, 1981

By Michael Radnor

The purpose of the study was to 1) examine the social and economic impacts of surface mine blasting in relation to variations in conditions of terrain and geology, population density and type, levels of ground motion and air blast; 2) consider technical, legal and government policy issues; and 3) examine the potential, nature and extent of surface mine blasting impacts and its regulations upon both communities and surface mining companies. Phase One designed the empirical research and technical analyses of Phase Two, focused upon surface coal mining and quarrying in the Eastern U.S. Several broad conclusions are evident: 1) blasting is not the major issue for communities or surface mine companies; 2) while the number of instances of severe cracking or annoyance are relatively small, the impact can be severe for individuals immediately involved; 3) blasting/drilling cost curves tend to rise significantly at intervals below 1.0 particle velocity, in/sec, dependent upon the size of a permit area and the size of a mine; and 4) the legal, complaint, cost and density analyses do not suggest the need for a general lowering of present regulations.

Jan 1, 1981

To improve communication among Government, industry, and academic researchers in the field of thermodynamics, the Federal Bureau of Mines sponsored a Workshop on Techniques for Measurement of Thermodynamic Properties in August 1979. Participants at the workshop presented 33 papers on the subjects of temperature measurement and control, general calorimetric techniques, low-temperature calorimetry, high-temperature calorimetry, galvanic cells, ionic solutions, and heterogeneous phase equilibria. A special invited lecture was presented by E. F. Westrum, Jr., on the resolution of lattice heat capacity. This Information Circular comprises the proceedings of the workshop and includes the texts of papers presented and discussion by attendees.

Jan 1, 1981

The selective placement of coal strip mine overburden is examined. Physical end chemical properties of spoil detrimental to revegetation and groundwater are detailed. The United States is divided into regions of similar problems. Five mining methods already used in the industry, that are capable of selectively handling; waste are examined in detail. Technical and economic comparisons are made for the systems when applied to realistic mine settings. The same analysis is conducted for five novel methods capable of selectively handling waste. Comparisons arc made between novel and existing methods. Suggestions for new and modified equipment are outlined. Recommendations for further research are provided.

Jan 1, 1981

By Shelby Z. Palya

"The Bureau of Mines was established in the public interest to conduct inquiries and scientific and technologic investigations concerning mining and the preparation, treatment, and utilization of mining-substances; to promote health and safety, in the mineral industries; to conserve Material resources , and prevent their waste; to further economic development; to increase efficiency in the mining, metallurgical, quarrying, and other Mineral industries; and to inquire into the economic conditions affecting those industries. The organic act of the Bureau, as amended by Congress and approved February 25, 1913, made it the province and duty of the Bureau to ""disseminate information concerning these subjects in such manner as will best carry out the purposes of this Act.""In accordance with this directive, the Bureau reports the findings of its research and investigations in its own series of publications and also in articles that appear in scientific, technical, and trade journals; in proceedings of conventions and seminars; in reference books; and in other non-Bureau publications. The number of these reports, the wide range of subjects they cover, and the variety of mediums in which they appear make the kind of list and index presented in this special publication both necessary and valuable. This issue describes reports and articles published during the period January 1, 1975, to December 31, 1979. It supplements the 50-year list of Bureau publications issued from July 1, 1910, to January 1, 1960; 2 the 50-year list, of articles by Bureau authors published outside the Bureau from July 1, 1910, to January 1, 1960; 3 the 5-year lists of publications and articles, from January 1, 1960, to December 31, 1964,, from January 1, .1965, to December 31, 1969,5 'and from January '1, 1970, to December 31, 1974; and the annual ,lists of Bureau publications and articles from January, 1 to December 31, 1975,7 from January 1, to December 31, 1976,8 from January 1 to December 31, 1977, and from January 1 to December 31, 1978."

Jan 1, 1981

By NEFE NONE

Possible New U.S. Half-Dollar. - Tile George Washington Commemorative Coin Act, H.R. 3133, was introduced in the House and approved by the House Banking Committee. It would allow the minting of at least 10 million commemorative silver half-dollars the size of the same coin produced before 1965. A companion bill, S. 1228, was introduced in the Senate. Taxes and the U.S. Minerals Industry. - The General Accounting Office completed a report to Congress on "Assessing the Impact of Federal and State Taxes On the Domestic Minerals Industry." the study presents a quantitative method to assess the effect of taxes on profitability, and suggests ways to use taxes or tax credits to help marginal mine operations and possibly to increase mineral production, Limited copies of the 139-page report are available free of charge from U.S. General Accounting Office, Documents Handling & Information Sevices Facility, P.O. Box 6015 Gaithersburg, Md. 20760.

Jan 1, 1981

U.S. Gold Commission Established. - The President, with the authorization of Congress, has named a gold commission made up of 17 individuals, most of them Government officials, to study U.S. policies related to the role of gold in domestic and international monetary systems and report its findings and recommendations to Congress. U.S. Lead Exposure Ruling. - On June 29, the Supreme Court upheld the Government's right to set lead exposure levels for employees at the workplace. The Court ruled in favor of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in a challenge by a group that alleged that OSHA had failed to conduct a cost-benefit analysis prior to issuance of the lead standards. It was the Court's contention that Congress did not require such an analysis when it empowered OSHA to establish workplace standards. The petition to the Court was made by the Lead Industries Association Inc., Battery Council International Inc" American Iron and Steel Institute, St. Joe Minerals Corp., and other lead mining and consuming firms.

Jan 1, 1981

By C. A. Geffen-Fowler

This report, sponsored by the Bureau of Mines, presents the results of an examination of the safety of the Blind Shaft Borer (BSB) shaft sinking system and an alternative modified BSB design concept in comparison to conventional shaft sinking technology. Detailed study of the two systems was also performed to identify and recommend design changes for optimum safety conditions. A comparison of the BSB systems with conventional shaft sinking was made on the basis of relative risk levels. Risk incorporates both the frequency and the potential consequence of accidents. A safety evaluation of the component operations of the two BSB systems was performed using a Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) methodology. The results of this analysis show generally that both BSS systems are safer than conventional shaft sinking. The potential risk of conventional shaft sinking operations could be reduced by over 30%, on the average, with the use of the original BSB system, and by an average of about 10% with the modified BSB. Design change recommendations to further improve the safety of these systems include a better fire suppression system, improved man haulage systems and more compact hydraulics. An operational safety manual was also developed for the modified BSB system.

Jan 1, 1981

By C. A. Geffen-Fowler

This report, sponsored by the Bureau of Mines, presents the results of an examination of the safety of the Blind Shaft Borer (BSB) shaft sinking system and an alternative modified BSB design concept in comparison to conventional shaft sinking technology. Detailed study of the two systems was also performed to identify and recommend design changes for optimum safety conditions. A comparison of the BSB systems with conventional shaft sinking was made on the basis of relative risk levels. Risk incorporates both the frequency and the potential consequence of accidents. A safety evaluation of the component operations of the two BSB systems was performed using a Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) methodology. The results of this analysis show generally that both BSB systems are safer than conventional shaft sinking. The potential risk of conventional shaft Sinking operations could be reduced by over 30%, on the average with the use of the original BSB system, and by an average of about 10% with the modified BSB. Design change recommendations to further improve the safety of these systems include a better fire suppression system, improved man haulage systems and more compact hydraulics. An operational safety manual was also developed for the modified BSB system.

Jan 1, 1981

By E. A. Mevissen

With the ever increasing consumption of mineral commodities, the vital question is not whether sufficient mineral quantities will be available, but rather can the known existing low grade resources be mined economically. Conventional conveyor systems are being used in some open pit mines to decrease haulage costs. n an effort, to take this concept one stop further, this contract study examines the use of a high angle conveying system in an open pit mine. It identifies available high angle conveying equipment and examines the haulage and crushing costs associated with both a conventional truck and shovel mining operation and a high angle conveyor operation. These costs analyses were performed on a hypothetical copper, taconite and phosphate mine. Information was gathered from a series of high angle conveying equipment and open pit mining operations in the U.S. Volume I includes a detailed review of the state-of-the-art in high angle conveying concepts, the, hypothetical mine development, and the cost analyses. Volume II includes the appendices.

Jan 1, 1981

By L. Ozdemir

An investigation was made to determine the mechanical properties of oil shale at elevated temperatures and confining pressures, the thermal properties at elevated temperatures, and to provide mathematical models for mine design for in situ oil shale retorting. A review of current activity in in situ retorting is included with a comprehensive list of references. Tests were run at temperatures from 20°C to 500°C and confining pressures to 1500 psi with shale of 10 to 30 gallons per ton. A major loss of strength occured in heating 140°C with a partial regain from 380°C to 500°C. Higher grade shale had lower compressive strength. Elastic properties showed large variations. Brazilian tensile strength showed a similar temperature sensitivity as the compressive strength. Equations were developed for each property in terms of grade, temperature and pressure. Thermal, electrical and acoustical properties showed anomalies through the temperature range. Creep is a major factor in overall deformation of heated shale. Oil shale was found to be an excellent insulator. Loss of pillar support area at 800 hours of heating would be about 10 percent. Good correlation was found between a finite element model using the developed properties and an in situ heater test.

Jan 1, 1981