{"title":"Transformation of the Australian mining industry and future prospects","authors":"H. Jang, E. Topal","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1786298","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1786298","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT The rapid industrialization in recent decades has enormously increased demands for energy and mineral resources. At the same time, economically viable resources near the surface have been nearly depleted, and the mining industry is facing new challenges of processing low-grade ore, increasing depth, climate changes, and rigorous social and environmental constraints. Furthermore, accountability for major social and sustainable development problems in the mining sector has imposed a further economic burden on mining companies. These challenges in the mining industry can be solved through technical improvements and the optimization of the entire mining value chain using advanced information and communication technologies (ICTs) and automation techniques. This paper presents future prospects of the mining industry by reviewing the sustainable development in mining, the global trend of mining innovations and initiatives of major mining companies, and some new mining technologies in Australia. Furthermore, future prospects and blueprints of the mining industry are suggested.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"9 1","pages":"120 - 134"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"79229165","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A hybrid paretosearch algorithm and goal attainment method for maximizing production and reducing blast-induced ground vibration: a blast design parameter selection approach","authors":"Clement Kweku Arthur, R. Kaunda","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1790262","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1790262","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT This study uses a hybrid paretosearch algorithm and goal attainment method to determine blast design parameters that will maximize production (total blasted volume) and minimize blast-induced ground vibration. Fifty-five (51) blast data collected at Quarry X in the Western US are used. A nonlinear and linear regression models are developed to serve as the objective function for the minimization of blast-induced ground vibration and maximization of production respectively. The blast design parameters are then determined using the hybrid optimization technique. The results obtained show that hole depths of 11.58 m, burden of 4.24 m, spacing of 4.88 m and stemming length of 3.61 m are the blast design parameter values that produce a minimum PPV within the interval of 0.51 and 38.1 mm/sec as stated in the Explosive regulation by the Colorado State Division of Oil and Public Safety for a total blast volume greater than 16,622 m3.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"35 1","pages":"151 - 158"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"84530113","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Gurmeet Shekhar, A. Gustafson, K. Jonsson, J. Martinsson, H. Schunnesson
{"title":"Development of an optimal draw control strategy for a sublevel caving operation at Malmberget mine","authors":"Gurmeet Shekhar, A. Gustafson, K. Jonsson, J. Martinsson, H. Schunnesson","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1775432","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1775432","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT This paper addresses the identification of the optimal draw control strategy for a sublevel caving (SLC) operation at Malmberget mine in Sweden. Two mathematical models, a probability model and an economic model, were created using five datasets: bucket weights, bucket grades, extraction ratio, mine economics parameters and production constraints. The probability model was used to generate a set of simulated bucket weights and corresponding bucket grades which acts as a ‘virtual mine’ environment. The economic model assesses the economic impact of loading at the draw point. Two approaches to draw control were tested using the ‘virtual mine’ created by the probability model. Based on the results of the simulation tests, an optimal draw control strategy is suggested for a field test at the mine. The new draw control strategy optimises further the loading operation at Malmberget mine. The paper shows a roadmap for optimising draw control strategy for SLC operations.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"157 1","pages":"104 - 112"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"77938426","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
P. Hartlieb, Luis Jordá Bordehore, Manuel Regueiro y González-Barros, Vítor Correia, J. Vidovič
{"title":"A comprehensive skills catalogue for the raw materials sector and the structure of raw materials education worldwide","authors":"P. Hartlieb, Luis Jordá Bordehore, Manuel Regueiro y González-Barros, Vítor Correia, J. Vidovič","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1770406","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1770406","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT The raw materials sector is undergoing significant structural changes. Skills required by emerging technologies and ever more challenging mineral deposits are changing quicker than todays’ workforce can update them. Education mainly focusses on “classical” raw materials related topics (geology, mining and mineral processing), whereas there are deficiencies in emerging and non-technical skills like communication and management. There is a strong need for both sides to understand the necessities and constraints of the respective other partner in this business. This paper generates a knowledge base for future analysis of raw materials education, identifying currently taught skills and the structure of higher education. A definition of skills, knowledge and teaching areas is presented, leading to a comprehensive “skills catalogue”. It builds the basis for an inventory of raw materials education worldwide.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"31 1","pages":"82 - 94"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"89908444","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Prediction of the height of caving and fracturing above an isolated longwall extraction panel","authors":"R. Seedsman","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1773124","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1773124","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT The height of collapse above a longwall extraction panel is simulated assuming a transversely isotropic continuum and an isotropic strength criterion. The transversely isotropic assumption allows consideration of the role of overburden conditions, specifically the spacing of bedding discontinuities. The shape and height of the collapse zone are like those produced in physical models and are consistent with subsidence measurements. The interaction between the disruption and break-through to the surface is examined using voussoir beam analysis. Break-through to the surface, which implies a fracture connection to the extraction level, may be associated with surface subsidence in excess of about 300 mm or a compressive strain in excess of about 4 mm/m.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"53 1","pages":"103 - 95"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75690012","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"An automated production targeting goal programming framework for oil sands mine planning considering organic rich solids","authors":"A. Maremi, E. Ben-Awuah, Y. Pourrahimian","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1749431","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1749431","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT In oil sands mining, bitumen and fines contents are used to predict ore processability. However, experimental results show that certain solid fractions known as Organic Rich Solids (ORS) negatively affect the overall bitumen recovery. A conceptual mine planning framework based on a goal programming model for oil sands production scheduling and waste management is presented. Bitumen recovery is additionally adjusted based on the ORS content. The model features automated production targeting (APT) and limited duration stockpiling constraints that optimize the annual production capacities. The model is implemented with two scenarios. Scenario 1 uses processing recovery calculated based on Alberta Energy Regulatory requirements while Scenario 2 uses processing recovery additionally adjusted based on ORS content. Results for Scenario 1 show a 3.46% overestimation of net present value compared to Scenario 2. The APT constraints provide planners a robust and efficient technique for determining annual production tonnages with minimum periodic variations.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"112 1","pages":"53 - 67"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"77578151","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Mass flow during fire experiments in a model-scale mine drift with longitudinal ventilation","authors":"R. Hansen","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1766302","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1766302","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Fires in underground mines may cause dangerous phenomena to mining personnel. One of these phenomena is the throttle effect, reducing the mass flow. This paper investigates the nature of the throttle effect. Data was provided from fire experiments in a model-scale mine drift. With an increasing heat release rate the reduction in the mass flow will increase. An increasing ventilation velocity may initially cause a reduction of the mass flow. With a further increase of the flow velocity the mitigating effect of the forced flow will increase. A dimensional analysis resulted in an equation where the mass flow reduction could be reasonably well described. It was found that the flow velocity had a weak effect on the mass flow reduction. Nevertheless, the flow velocity influence the initiation of the reduced mass flow. A full-scale flow velocity of 3.5 m/s was found to prevent the throttle effect for typical fires underground.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"49 1","pages":"68 - 81"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"86771806","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"On the question of original versus modified stability graph factors – a critical evaluation","authors":"Y. Madenova, Fidelis T. Suorineni","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1721996","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1721996","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT The Stability Graph has become an industry standard for open stope design. To date, there are two schools of thought on the use of the Original and Modified Stability Graph number factors. This paper is aimed at answering the question: Is there a difference between the Original and the modified stability number factors? To answer this question, a critical examination of the Extended Mathews and Modified Stability Graph databases was conducted to create a combined database of 316 datapoints. One version of the database was based on the original number factors, while a second was based on the modified factors. Logistic regression methods were applied to redefine the stope stability state boundaries. We concluded that differences between the stope stability states transition zones in the Stability Graphs are due to the differences in size of the databases rather than differences in the Original and Modified Stability Graph number factors.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"1 1","pages":"40 - 52"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"76208693","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Performance analysis of electric and diesel equipment for battery replacement of tethered LHD vehicles in underground mining","authors":"A. Nieto, Rich S. Schatz, Cihan Dogruoz","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2020.1720371","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2020.1720371","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Load Haul Dump (LHD) equipment, haulers, and locomotives are essential to both hard and soft rock mining. Key performance indicators were calculated for both diesel and electric LHDs using the data provided by a multinational mining company operating metal mines. Battery-powered vehicles, having both the advantage of low maintenance and no tether to haul, showed an improvement in uptime. The electric fleet was, on average, operational 11 h longer than diesel vehicles before they are pulled off for maintenance. The results from comparing diesel and electric equipment show that the best equipment would be a fusion of the reliability of electric vehicles and the mobility of diesel equipment, both being attributes of battery powered equipment. Battery-powered vehicles are constantly improving and will only increase their prowess over diesel equipment.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"504 1","pages":"22 - 29"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"87010473","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Cost-saving electrical energy consumption in underground ventilation by the use of ventilation on demand","authors":"Leandro de Vilhena Costa, José Margarida da Silva","doi":"10.1080/25726668.2019.1651581","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/25726668.2019.1651581","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Electricity is one of the biggest expenses associated with underground mining and ventilation often accounts for 50% of the total electricity use. Ventilation on demand is not widely used in Brazil, but the Ipueira, Cuiaba, and Corrego do Sitio I mines reported savings of 26%, 30%, and 21%, respectively, following its application. Frequency inverters are used to control the rotation of the main fans during shift changes. The Cuiaba mine has a control room and fans are monitored online using wireless scattered sensors. Data from field studies were compared to other foreign mines. The results showed that the application of this technique, even in an experimental way, can reduce electricity consumption significantly. Despite the energy savings that can be achieved by providing air only when/where it is needed, the costs of automation, software, and infrastructure mean that it is not practical to apply this technique at a more advanced level.","PeriodicalId":44166,"journal":{"name":"Mining Technology-Transactions of the Institutions of Mining and Metallurgy","volume":"54 1","pages":"1 - 8"},"PeriodicalIF":1.1,"publicationDate":"2020-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"79674648","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}