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Probabilistic seismic hazard analyses (PSHA) have now gained wide acceptance in the development of design criteria for major projects. When used with regional criteria the procedures have also allowed the preparation of more rational seismic zoning maps. Seismic zoning maps using various levels of results from PSHA studies around the Pacific Rim now include Canada, Indonesia, New Zealand and the United States. Some Pacific Rim countries such as Chile where the seismic exposure is dominated by subduction events have no subdivision into separate zones.Approaches to risk based zoning are being considered in several Pacific Rim countries including Australia. Australian studies must face problems similar to parts of the Eastern United States where seismic activity is low with irregular and infrequent occurrences of moderately large earthquakes. The perception of the seismic exposure by both regulatory agencies and the public at large is different when considering areas of low seismicity. There is therefore a need to make different interpretations of the results of PSHA studies in these areas of low seismicity. The aim of this paper is to explore some of these differences by comparing the results from two site specific studies from areas with widely differing seismic activity rates.

Jan 1, 1990

By Nguyen T. T, Williams A. M, Siauw T. H

During the last 20 years the CSIRO Division of Manufacturing Technology, through its research and development program, has made a substantial contribution towards understanding the pressure die casting process. Much of this work focused on the hot chamber die casting of zinc, where the importance of achieving optimum flow of metal into the die cavity, combined with the correct thermal balance of the tool, is critical to the production of high quality castings. Having developed a fuller understanding of the heat and fluid flow occurring in the pressure die casting process, CSIRO sought to make this information available to the industry in a form where it could be readily used by die casting engineers. This led to the development of DMT-CASTFLOW and DMT-CASTHERM, two unique, PC-based, die design software packages. DMT-CASTFLOW provides facilities for designing running and gating systems while DMT-CASTHERM enables the die designer to optimise the cooling and/or heating requirements of the die. These two packages are now being sold internationally. This paper will describe some of the major features and benefits that can be derived by using DMT-CASTFLOW and DMT-CASTHERM panicularly in the design of zinc pressure die casting dies.

Jan 1, 1993

By Hayes P. C

The reduction of small, dense zinc oxide (ZnO) samples in CO/CO2, and CO/N2 gas mixtures has been investigated at temperatures between 900 and 1100¦C. The microstructural characterisation of the reacted and partially reduced samples was complemented with measurements of the rates of the reactions. The mechanisms and kinetics of reduction of zinc oxide were found to be dependent upon the CO partial pressure, the oxygen potential of the gas mixtures, temperature and degree of reduction.

Jan 1, 1991

By Egan J. R

Changes have recently been applied to the Sullivan Concentrator lead and zinc circuits to treat fine-grained ores which make-up the majority of ore reserves in the mine. Pilot plant testwork conducted in 1990 - 91 indicated that concentrate grades would be substantially improved by reducing the particle size (Pao) of the lead from 38 to 15 ¦m and the zinc from 45 to 24 ¦m. Circuit revisions involved installation of major new equipment including: two 600-kilowatt Vertimills for regrinding, a four metre diametre column flotation cell and a four metre diameter hyperbaric pressure filter for dewatering. Duties of the existing regrind mills were Reassigned.

Jan 1, 1993

The blasting process involves a complex interaction of a delayed sequence of moving sources of seismic energy which produce nonlinear behaviour near the blast holes. A deterministic description of this nonlinear behaviour represents a formidable problem. The modelling of blast vibrations remote from the blast source may use some of the primary features of the blast design such as charge type, charge weight and initiation sequence. Such modelling of blast vibrations usually assumes linear behaviour remote from the blast holes. Site specific charge weight scaling laws may be used to predict the blast vibration levels with relatively poor accuracy. An important ingredient which is missing from charge weight scaling laws is the seismic source wavelet emanating from each blast hole. The present paper considers some approaches which may be used to determine a suitable source wavelet. The wavelets are suitable for use in the region where linearity may be assumed. In that region, it is possible to model the attenuation and scattering of the seismic wave as it propagates from the blast source to the measurement location.

Jan 1, 1990

By Huntington J. F, Green A. A

The quality of a photointerpreter's anno- tation of an image may be displayed by writing maps in which the pixels are shaded according to the number of times a pixel was seen to be on a feature. The map of grey tones is more valuable, if, for each grey level, a measure of quality is determined, which is the probability that a feature exists in a pixel of a given grey tone. From repeated annotations (at least four) of the same image by a single observer, it is possible to formulate a perception model which describes stochastic processes in the observer. From that model, it is possible to assign estimates of data quality for each observer to each grey tone. For two observers on the same scene, the 'mean' method of quantifying the grey levels is to assign a value equal to the mean of the ii,:lities for each of the two observers separately. For this example, the grey tones arr thus quantified at probability levels of 0.70, 0.80, 0.90 and 0.95.

Jan 1, 1977

By Brinkmann J. R

In the narrow stopes of South African gold mines, rockbreaking is carried out by drilling and blasting with safety fuse and igniter cord being used as the initiation system. The fuse/gniter cord system is used primarily because of its low cost, however several limitations of this method include: inaccurate delay time, unreliable firing, inflexible application to varied configurations, and the absence of dynamic interaction between holes. Alternative initiation systems that incorporate millisecond timing are being developed to overcome the limitations of fuse(tgniter cord systems. Current investigations by the Stoping Technology Division of the Chamber of Mines Research Organization (COMRO) into the effects of millisecond initiation are being conducted at a deep test site. Experimental blasts using various millisecond delays and the independent firing of holes with fuse/igniter cord are being studied in order to quantify the influence of delay time on the blasting process and to identify the best methods of applying millisecond initiation systems. The effect of design variables such as delay time, hole firing pattern, stemming, and panel layout are discussed. Blast results including throw distance and direction, muckpile profile and rock cleaning times are used in the discussion of different combinations of blasting variables.

Jan 1, 1990

By Stump NW

Until a year ago all isotope on-stream analysis utilised flow cells similar to those designed for conventional X-ray on-stream analysis. These systems incorporated a fairly complex sampling system necessary to present a representa- tive air-free sample of the main process to the flow cell. Maintenance costs and capital costs associated with flow cells and sampling systems have been generally high. Costs can be greatly reduced and reliability greatly increased, by using isotopes incorporated in immersible on-stream analysis probes which actually dip into the main process stream eliminating the need for sampling. A bonus of other advantages associated with immersible probes includes temperature stability and ease of calibration. This paper discusses details and results of the probe systems, justifica- tion for installing on-stream analysis, comparison of conventional X-ray and isotope techniques, and a brief survey of methods of analysis using radio- isotopes in on-stream elemental determinations.

Jan 1, 1971

By Richmond A

Like many industries the coal mining industry has, since the beginning of this century, undergone many changes. Technological advances and the increasing demand for fossil fuels have introduced new mining methods and techniques which allow the extraction of thicker and deeper coal seams at higher rates of production. Most new methods of mining (or for that matter any other processes) introduce problems which the engineers of the industry are expected to face and resolve. Unfortunately, spontaneous combustion has plagued the coal mining industry since the first attempts to mine coal, and is no doubt partly responsible for the reputation that coal mining is a hazardous industry. The financial loss and toll of human lives due to the occurrence of spontaneous combustion of coal in coal mines is enormous, if not incalculable. Its occurrence today is less likely to claim lives, due to both improved methods of working and in the detection of spontaneous combustion sites.

Jan 1, 1983

By Dunn P. G

The copper ore reserves at the Chuquicamata mine were re-estimated during March to June 1994, as part of a comprehensive audit of the mine's overall short- and long-term planning. The basic principles essential to all ore reserve estimates were implemented viz: 1. A detailed study of the geology, in this case particularly of the orientations of structural features of copper mineralisation and the subdivision of the orebody into geologically homogeneous sections, 2. the use of both drillhole and blasthole data sets, 3. statistical and geostatistical analyses of both data sets to model anisotropic spatial structures for all the geologically homogeneous sections, 4. block kriging using both data sets individually; and 5. a comprehensive validation of the block valuations to confirm the absence of global and conditional biases and to quantify the actual improvement achieved in the overall quality of the estimates compared to those executed on earlier techniques.

Jan 1, 1995

By Donald D

A number of standard tests are conventionally carried out to characterise strength properties of rock. The values of the parameters obtained are often affected by planes of weakness or defects in rock structure. For the purpose of mine design, the range in values or the class of the strength (obtained from a number of tests) is generally more important than a precise value (obtained from a single or limited number of tests). Research has been conducted to establish a relationship between an indentation index and the strength of the intact rock material from the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia. The Tamrock Raise Boring Index (RB-i) test, which is quick and easy to perform, was selected as the indentation test. The results show that, for heterogeneous, strong to very strong rock, there is a good correlation between the indentation index and the uniaxial compressive strength and tensile strength.

Jan 1, 1996

A new approach to resource estimation at the exploration stage is emerging, based on the application of simple software techniques. The techniques combine the power of interactive graphics with proven database, analysis and estimation tools. With effective use of these tools the geologist now has maximum chance of deriving a reliable structural and grade model from the limited exploration data. Unlike cutoff-based polygonal methods, the resultant geological model can immediately be used to evaluate any economic scenario.These modelling techniques are embodied in MINEX-3D, an Australian software system. With the emergence of the 386-based PC and high resolution (VGA or better) graphics, MINEX-3D makes the power of this new 'desktop geological modelling' accessible to most exploration geologists.

Jan 1, 1990

Commencing from a platform acknowledging the capability of the Russian mining industry in open cut and underground mining operations a revitalisation of the industry will depend on an assimilation of mining economics and on an opportunity for technical training of Russian mining industry professionals.Successful foreign investment in parallel with the reconstruction of the industry rests on an understanding of culture, history, internal controls under central planning, and external factors affecting mining development.

Jan 1, 1997

Thank you chairman, good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. In my talk this afternoon I intend to cover a brief history, some of the recent experiences and an overview of the McArthur River project.If we consider the themes of this forum, Obstacles and Opportunities, I can confidently say that in attempting to develop the McArthur River deposit Mount Isa Mines Limited (MIM) must have encountered almost every obstacle that can be imagined. However the large size and the high grade of the deposit has ensured an opportunity, from which it is very difficult to walk away from.The McArthur River Here's Your Chance (HYC) Deposit is located in the Northern Territory of Australia. It was discovered by Mount Isa Mines Limited geologists in 1955 and is one of the largest known sedimentary stratiform zinc-lead-silver deposits. The deposit has been the subject of numerous investigations and considerable expenditure culminating in a major feasibility study in 1979. There were a number of factors which prevented development, these being the size of the project, the fine grained mineralization, geographical location, market, social and capital cost. The latter had been estimated in the 1979 study to be $800 million at that time.

Jan 1, 1993

By Misra V. N, Spottiswood D. J

In recent years the column flotation process has gained worldwide acceptance for processing various types of minerals under different circuit configurations. In an age when real prices of many mineral commodities are in decline and mining and labour costs are rising in real terms, it is more important than ever that concentration processes be not only efficient but also cost-effective. The column flotation process can give better metallurgical performance as well as involve lower capital and operating costs compared to conventional mechanical cells.This paper reviews the literature on columns and the effects of various column parameters on performance of the column flotation process. The history and principles of operation of the column flotation process are briefly discussed by way of introduction.

Jan 1, 1995

By Martin T

High methane content of the medium volatile metallurgical coal mined from the Coal Basin mines causes very difficult mining conditions. Rapid desorption into the mine ventilation system limits coal production, requires huge fresh air quantities and creates mine safety problems. In workings deeper than 2000 ft (600m) gassy coal and heavy cover create outbursting conditions. Cross-measure methane drainage has reduced ventilation requirements on advancing faces, but degasifica- tion of virgin coal is needed to improve mining Conditions.

Jan 1, 1982

On-line radioisotope gauges determine information on the characteristics of ore to enable improved control of processing operations. In the metalliferous mineral industry, in-stream analysis systems based on radioisotope X-ray techniques determine concentrations of valuable minerals at various stages of the concentration process. In the coal industry, on-line gauges determine ash and moisture contents, and the specific energy of coal.In-stream analysis systems developed in Australia are installed in about 30 mineral concentrators. Their use has led to the increased recovery of valuable minerals, and the time taken to recover the cost of installation is usually several months. The savings to Australia resulting from use of these analysis systems is estimated to be more than $A 15 million per year.Australian experience in the training of mineral industry personnel shows that the most effective approach is to combine courses on nuclear techniques and control of processing operations. This is the basis of Australia's contribution to the minerals sub-project of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Industrial Project.

Jan 1, 1985

By Leahy G. J, Moxon N. T, Nicol S. K

Experimental work is described in which extremely dilute aurocyanide liquors are treated with novel surface-active complexing agents to produce a hydrophobic aurocyanide species. Subsequent aeration of these liquors causes accumulation of such species at the air-water interface and the aurocyanide complex is transferred to a froth concentrate. A detailed performance assessment of this process is made and this knowledge used in the design of a pilot plant facility. Early results indicate the feasibility of the selective recovery of aurocyanide ions from reclaimed residue dam water (approximately 0.2ppm Au) with upgrade ratios of the order 180:1. A further study was made applying ion flotation to the recovery of gold from a carbon-in-pulp (CIL) feed liquor (approximately 1.0ppm Au). The probable economics of this process compared to conventional CIL processing is also described. Successful development of countercurrent ion flotation for concentrating solids-free gold solutions may offer a lower cost alternative to existing gold ore processing technologies, or in more secondary applications such as concentrating dilute gold solutions or heap leach runoff. The technology may also have more generalised applications to other heavy metal process- Ing.

Jan 1, 1991

By Dight P. M

The challenge of narrow vein mining is to produce ore with as little dilution as possible, at the least cost -commensurate with the increasing degrees of safety being demanded for mine workers by the modem 'duty of care' legislation. Geotechnical factors play an important, if not overriding, role in these areas. The geotechnical factors cover the complex interaction over a period of time, between the in situ and induced rock stresses, rock structures, rock mass strength and the cable, rock bolt and other ground support members. In the Archaean schist belt areas where many of our narrow vein mines occur the pre-mining in situ rock stresses are commonly significantly higher than the overburden stresses. These are concentrated in areas beneath previous open pits and may be highly concentrated in the pillars and abutments of stopes on narrow veins. The presence of high in situ stresses may be suspected from the appearance of drill cores and underground development long before they become sufficiently concentrated by mining to cause damage or bursts. These initial indications are discussed and modem low cost methods of stress measurement are described. Practical and quick methods of analysing the stress redistribution around scopes and other underground excavations are now available and guidelines for interpreting them in terms of rockmass characteristics, stope stability and support requirements are developed with the object of increasing safety, whilst reducing overall costs and dilution.

Jan 1, 1993

By Sakai S, Suga S, Bisque RE

Soil gases were collected on activated charcoal, analyzed by computerized mass spectrometry and treated with multivariate statistical pattern recognition to determine the diagnostic geochemical signature associated with the Okuaizu Geothermal Field in Japan. From this a geothermal model was developed and compare to 175 "unknown" samples in a 250 m spaced grid over 30 1Qn2 mapping the areas with a matching geochemical character. Faults and fractures were generally located by the presence of high molecular weight components. Following the initial survey, the faults in two specific areas were precisely located by a second survey with samples at 10-30m spacing. Where earlier geochemical surveys had placed anomalies 1-2 Km northeast of the geothermal center, the fingerprint survey accurately mapped the system and detected several faulted zones. It was not misled by hot springs located away from the geothermal System.

Jan 1, 1987