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By Parker GJ

The financing of smaller resource projects has proven to be a difficult problem for promoters and financiers alike as very often such projects have not met the requirements of available financing methods and promoters have equally found it difficult to establish credibility, management and technical ability with potential financing sources. Solutions to the dilemma in which many of these projects find themselves are not readily apparent but will need to be found if the full potential of Australia's resources is to be realised. INTRODUCTION The growth of so called project financing in its present form is normally considered to be a phenomenon of very recent times, however, paradoxically there are references to what could be called financing in the old testament. To confuse the issue further financing small resource projects may not, and very often are not undertaken on a project financing basis. It is therefore quite apparent that one should be completely clear on:

Jan 1, 1982

The economic future of the Palmer Goldfield lies with both the gold mining and the tourist industries. An equitable solution to the competition between the two involves putting a dollar value on the historical evidence there for our Australian heritage.On 23 October 1986 the Queensland Government gazetted the Palmer River Reserves R16 of 16 200 hectares, in recognition of the competing land uses emerging in the region. The intention is that historically significant gold mining sites and relics will be preserved in situ with provision for continued gold exploration and mining.This paper explores and explains the administrative process of achieving a set of Management Guidelines for Rl6 within the Queensland political milieu. The result of that process is the achievement of some of the highest preservation standards in Australia, prohibiting surface disturbance of defined Category 1 sites, and no mining proposal has yet been refused approval.The Palmer Goldfield R16 experience is a major step in achieving a co-ordinated approach to both current mining and preservation of Queensland's mining heritage.

Jan 1, 1990

By N Ross, N Goldup

In recent years the heavy mineral mining industry has started to look more closely at the feasibility of mining moderate to high slimes deposits. During the initial stages of orebody evaluation the primary purpose of the pilot plant is to produce heavy mineral concentrate for metallurgical evaluation. Hence, generally little consideration is given to the disposal of the waste material (slimes and tailings). This paper suggests additional, simple, low-cost, tests that can easily be incorporated into an initial pilot plant operation. With this data a more definitive evaluation of available waste disposal options can be made during the early stages of the project. Thus, permitting better project focus and utilisation of resources. These tests include free settling of slimes, natural slimes drying and consolidation (undrained and drained), tailings stacking angles, and particle size distributions of input and waste streams, etc. The objective and method of each test is summarised, together with its relevance to possible waste disposal options. The results of this preliminary testwork can later be used to expand upon and define further tests for the second phase of pilot plant operations, which will enable a more definitive evaluation of a proposed waste disposal solution.

Jan 1, 2001

By Adhikari G. R, Raju N. M

The breaking of rock by explosives occurs so rapidly that the details of the phenomenon cannot he observed by the unaided eye. High resolution cameras and VCRs offer a means of slowing down the blasting action. A high resolution super video camera with digital zoom and a variable shutter speed was imported and used for the first time in India as a tool for blast optimisation studies at Malanjkhand Copper Project. Slow motion play-back revealed that the gases vented out through the fissures. The crest moved prior to the lower portion of the bench when initiated with detonating cord. The delay timing between the rows was not enough to provide sufficient relief and rock movement. This inadequate delay timing resulted in flyrock from the back rows. Stemming ejection was observed from practically all the holes. The muck profile was not satisfactory. A trial was carried out using 450 ms in hole delays and 25 nis surface delays. The front row holes were drilled based on the observations made from the laser profiling survey system. The video of the monitored blast showed that the rock started moving prior to the stemming ejection. It could be clearly seen that the entire block was completely initiated through the surface delays before the onset of the burden movement, thus eliminating any chance of misfires. Viewing blasts in high quality slow motion was useful to arrive at modified design parameters, resulting in uniform fragment size distribution and controlled rock movement.

Jan 1, 1995

By M Stewart, J Vann, S Dunham

Geometallurgy is an emerging, cross-disciplinary field that integrates spatial models of rock properties with time-based outcomes of mining and treatment processes. Geometallurgical variables include any rock property that has a positive or negative effect on the business. Some of the more critical geometallurgical variables include recovery, grindability, throughput, power consumption, mineralogy and content of deleterious materials. These variables drive project costs and revenues in a fundamental way and thus geometallurgy has potential to positively impact on the value of strategic and tactical decisions across many mining organisations. Geometallurgical models, like traditional grade-only models are based on samples collected from the mineralised and non-mineralised regions of the deposit. The nature of some non-grade variables, particularly those that are dependent on the ore treatment processes, requires special consideration during sampling and subsequent spatial modelling. Failing to objectively consider the characteristics of variables may seriously compromise the validity of the sample selection, sample treatment, data models and the subsequent decisions. In addition to addressing the vexed question of collecting an æunbiased and representativeÆ sample, the sampling and modelling approach must consider issues of scale, both geostatistical support and also the relationship between bench-scale data and operational-scale mineral processing performance. This paper proposes a framework (the Primary-Response framework) for the classification of geometallurgical variables. This framework is designed to assist with developing sampling approaches and identifying the most appropriate spatial modelling approach. The proposed framework can also help identify the risks associated with designing, sampling and modelling of both types of geometallurgical variables. The Primary-Response framework divides variables into two categories; primary variables and response variables. How a variable is classified in this framework depends on the degree to which the variable reflects either an intrinsic attribute of the rock (æprimaryÆ) or its response to measurement processes (æresponseÆ). Depending on the classification in this framework, appropriate sampling and modelling decisions can be made to minimise the risk associated with the incorrect treatment of the variable. In particular, the authors argue that for response variables, the approach taken to building spatial models may need to be different to conventional linear averaging approaches (for example kriging).

Jan 1, 2009

Increasing use has been made of engineer ing geology and hydrogeology in the development of the infrastructure for mining projects. The Geological Survey of the Department of Mines, the Department of Main Roads, the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission and private consulting organisations and mining companies, employ spec- ialist staff to carry out engineering geological and/or hydrogeological investigations. Such in- vestigations have been of assistance in recent mining developments in northern Queensland, in- cluding those in the Cloncurry - Mount lsa, Weipa, Greenvale and northern Borten Basin areas.

Jan 1, 1974

To meet the objectives of sustainable development, mining projects must be executed with minimal environmental risks and impacts. To allow proper actions to be taken, it is helpful if the environmental challenges associated with a mine development project can be predicted early during exploration activities. Signs of impending environmental problems like acid rock drainage and metal leaching are often revealed in the occurrence of natural acid drainage, formation of efflorescent salts and their associated ecological effects. Other subtle clues can be deduced from anomalous geochemistry, detailed textural features of mixed sulfide assemblages and miscellaneous environmental data sets covering the target areas of exploration. A more practical tool, however, is the development of comprehensive environmental ore deposit models containing relevant information on ore genesis, applicable mining, processing and waste management options and their environmental implications according to deposit type. Not only will such models facilitate communications among independent groups of personnel involved in a mining project to come up with schemes to ensure better environmental performance of the overall project, they will also facilitate decision-making if a mine development project should be pursued further or valuable resources be redirected to other more favourable targets.

Jan 1, 2003

Simulation and animation models have developed rapidly over the past decade. Even so, the current state-of-the-art can be viewed only as being in a state of continual development with improvements in both hardware and software constantly being

Jan 1, 1998

A unique opportunity is presented to Australia by recent developments in the Carpentaria and Mount Isa Mineral Province.Unique in two ways:The size, diversity and multiplicity of mineral finds in the region, and the continuing prospectivity.The approach being undertaken to accelerate development, increase the value generated for all stakeholders, and the value added in the region.

Jan 1, 1993

Thank you for asking me to address you. The topic may sound formidable. Those of you with determination to go somewhere in your careers will understand that by taking geoscience, mining and metallurgy courses as students, you are declaring your intere

Jan 1, 1994

In the 25 years since Broken Hill's 75th Anniversary which was marked by an Australasian Institute and Mining and Metallurgy Conference in Broken hill, there have been some significant changes in the role of mines inspectors. This paper updates the information given by the then Chief Inspector of Mines, J.H. Burford, to that 1968 Conference, with an emphasis being placed on mines inspection, although it also reflects changes to mining legislation and regulatory bodies.

Jan 1, 1983

By U E. Sibilski

A pilot plant evaluation of the Savmin process, for the purification of mine water was commissioned by Anglogold and conducted at the Stilfontein Gold Mine, Margaret Shaft at Stilfontein in the North West province of South Africa. The purpose of the project was to obtain the operating conditions and operating costs, to produce different qualities of product water, as well as design parameters for upscaling to an industrial plant. The project was undertaken by AngloGold and Mintek of South Africa.

Jan 1, 2003

Legislation for control of ventilation in New South Wales coal mines is contained in the Coal Mines Regulation Act, 1912, as amended. The standards set down in that Act were based on the needs of the industry at the turn of the century. Changes and additions to the original standards have been made to cater for mechaniz- ation of the industry and the introduction of modern developments such as the use of diesel equipment. Technological progress has been recognized by the requirement for monitoring of machines and return airways. The passing of the Coal Mines Regulation Act 1982 has ensured that there will be a revision and modernization of the regulations affecting day to day operations of the industry.

Jan 1, 1983

By Marsham B, Baker D. C

The expansion of New Broken Hill Consolidated Limited (NBHC) concentrator necessitated the installation of hydrocyclone classifiers where rake classifiers had previously been used. Commissioning of the circuit and optimisation of circuit performance has highlighted problems related to classification of sulphide minerals. Testwork initiated to solve these problems has been used to develop cyclone models which have been incorporated in a ccnputer control strategy for the grinding circuit as a whole. The modifications to the circuit during the commissioning phase and the control philosophy are outlined.

Jan 1, 1983

Mackenzie (1968, p. 167) inferred that amphibolitelayers grade into and may be correlated with footwall Potosi gneiss where it is thin under the thickest development of the "lead lode" in the New Broken Hill Consolidated mine, Broken Hill. This gradation from amphibolite to Potosi gneiss is tacitly assumed in many of the constructed crosssections of the southern end of the orebody, where amphibolite and Potosi gneiss, defined in hand specimen, are correlated in adjacent drill holes. The basis for such correlations is the observation that some amphibolites in drill core lighten in colour from black to grey along the core and grade into an unlayered rock containing conspicuous pink garnets, which resembles Potosi gneiss (for descriptions of Potosi gneiss see Andrews, 1922; Gustafson, BurreIl and Garretty, 1950; Carruthers and Pratten, 1961;\Ternon, 1969).Average chemical compositions of "footwall" Potosi gneiss and "upper" amphibolite (Hawkins...

Jan 1, 1972

By D MacKay, W J. Bruckard

One of the mining worldÆs greatest challenges is to effectively use consumables (ie reagents and grinding media) to maximise metallurgical response, while minimising operating costs. It is anticipated that this paper will provide a logical frame work within which this can be achieved. The current study, at PerilyaÆs Broken Hill concentrator in the lead primary grinding/roughing circuits, examines the dependency of collector adsorption on Eh. The data demonstrates clearly that under the right grinding chemistry the addition of a xanthate collector during grinding can improve galena flotation. Further, operating the ball mill under the desired grinding chemistry regime leads to significant reductions in collector consumption whilst maintaining the metallurgical benefit.

Jan 1, 2008

Modern, research-based approaches to mineral exploration are essential to the future maintenance of the mineral industry. These need to fully utilise the rapidly expanding growth of understanding of the evolution of the earth's crust, and be properly integrated with advances in understanding of chemical and physical processes involved in ore formation. BMR has a major role to play in supporting the growth and utilisation of this research base, as well as maintaining the national geological and geophysical bases which are essential both to tactical and strategic interests of Australia and of its mineral industry. The objective development of data-process modelling is one target of such strategic research based on a more integrated approach to research by BMR, mineral companies, CSIRO and the universities with emphasis given to promoting positive feedback during research activities. Examples of the success of strategic research in Australia and overseas are noted in the Text.

Jan 1, 1986

By A R. A Gomes

The Metropolitan Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) Initial System Project (ISP) - Underground Structures North, UGN, is the northern section of the blue line, which is the first stage of an underground mass transport rail system of 77 km to be implemented in the central area of Bangkok, Thailand. The UGN section (Huai Kwang - Bang Sue) consists of approximately 8 km of twin single track bored tunnels, nine underground stations and some short cut and cover tunnel sections. The paper focuses on the main issues involved in the structural design of the precast concrete lining, which is the definitive structural support of the bored tunnels. It includes an overview of the site and geotechnical conditions, specific properties of precast concrete linings, ground-structure modelling, approach for the assessment of load conditions and respective sectional forces and particulars of the detailing of the reinforcement and the segment testing program.

Jan 1, 1999

Large scale rhyolitic volcanism is an important process at some convergent plate margins because it leads to chemical differentiation of the upper.-crust and is responsible for the production of long lived near surface thermal anomalies; the Taupo Volcanic Zone is.a Quaternary example. The main features of the magmatic systems-of the zone. are the existence of large high level chambers containing homogeneous silicic magma which erupt at intervals of thousands to tens of thousands of years. Geochemical work on the deposits resulting from these eruptions has shown that with few exceptions the magmas have been remarkably uniform in their . composition throughout the history of the zone although individual batches with lifespans of the order of. one hundred thousand years can be recognised by subtle differences in trace element ratios. Basalt is a rare proportion of the rocks exposed at the surface but has played a major role as a medium for heat transfer and as an end member in chemical mixing processes.

Jan 1, 1987

By M Kuruppu

Large mining operations require a high percentage of the capital invested in mobile and fixed mining machinery. From an investment point of view this expenditure must be met by an equally high rate of return, thus the need for high plant and equipment reliability is of major importance. Equipment downtime is undesirable and very costly, resulting in lost production and revenue, which is of critical importance to successful mining operations. One of the solutions to this problem may be found in the form of competent computerised maintenance management software systems, which help to reduce the problem of breakdowns. These software assist the engineers for the management of service orders, resource allocation, progress monitoring as well as costing. They also facilitate the communication of targets and objectives among the service personnel. A computerised maintenance management software called MAINPAC was used to record and plan the activities of mobile equipment maintenance in a large mining operation in Western Australia. Among the details recorded were equipment data, service history, machine downtimes, previous maintenance, job planning and the resource required. This information further helped to analyse the maintenance efficiency, availability and the reliability of the equipment.

Jan 1, 2006