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By F. Ntengwe

The Konkola Mine, a subsidiary of the Konkola Copper Mines Plc (KCM) which is owned by the Vedanta group of companies of India and Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Holding limited, is located at Chililabombwe in the northern extension of Zambia's Copperbelt province. In its operations, the mine has been experiencing problems in ascertaining the optimum degree of fineness and the operating density of the hydrocyclone overflow in order to achieve high flotation performance. It was believed that recovery of sulphide copper minerals from Konkola ore is a function of the fineness of the grind so that it might be an economical justification to modify the grinding plant in order to run at lower cyclone overflow densities than the case is now. In an effort to improve these operations, it was decided to carry out test work on various hydrocyclones of sizes 0.381 m, 0.4575 m and on 0.508 m. The later was found to give satisfactory results and was installed on the plant. Despite giving satisfactory results there was need to investigate further to establish the working densities and size. Increasing the density of cyclone overflow decreases the per cent passing 75 pm at least in the range 1080-1 150 g/l. Furthermore, hydrocyclones give better separation at low densities of feed and hence the efficiency is high at low feed densities. Circulating load increases with an increase in feed densities and an decrease in the grind. The flotation performance in both sulphide and oxide copper minerals rougher stages is enhanced with an increase in the degree of fineness of the grind, with an optimum being obtained at a density of 1 150 g/l and 81.4% passing 75 µm. Keywords Konkola mine, hydrocylone, optimum degree of fineness, sulphide copper minerals.

Jan 1, 2011

By E. Bakhtavar

There are many near-surface deposits with considerable vertical extent that have the potential to be mined by a combined method of open-pit and underground methods. In this regard, there is often a point called ?transition depth? where a decision has to be made whether to continue deepening the pit or change to underground methods. Recently, optimization of the transition from open-pit to underground operation has become an important challenge in mining engineering. Optimally, to model the transition problem on the basis of maximization of the profit from open-pit and underground mining, (0-1) integer programming has been used. In this method, block economic values of open-pit and underground methods should be imported to the transition model. A hypothetical example is presented in order to assess the model in detail.

Jan 1, 2012

By C G. Robinson, B. K. Loveday, J. C. Paynter

"A method of optimizing the design of a processing plant has been developed which minimizes capital and operating costs for average stripping ratios and ore characteristics. Models were developed to describe the operating characteristics and costs involved in various operations such as up-grading, leaching and solid-liquid separation.The options available in up-grading policy and the relation between the cut-off grade and the costs incurred subsequently in the treatment of the ore formed the basis of the optimization. To arrive at an optimum plant configuration and a set of operating parameters, the interrelation between grinding size, leaching temperature, leaching time, and various plant recycle options was investigated."

Jan 1, 2014

By T. Fraszczak, U. A. Peuker, T. Mütze, O. Ortlepp

Dolomite is a calcium carbonate sedimentary rock that can be found all over the world. In its calcined form it is employed for water treatment or as an additive in iron production. Calcined dolomite is produced at the Wünschendorfer Dolomitwerk GmbH in shaft furnaces (kilns). Because of an expansion of the mined deposit, significantly higher extraction costs were expected. Therefore, the existing upgrading processes for the kiln stone fraction had to be adapted and improved. This paper presents a process optimisation which allows for an increase of the yield of calcined dolomite by 10 % due to a redesign of the crusher circuit and by an additional 5 % due to a comprehensive characterisation of the kiln stone fraction itself. Here the interdependency between the pressure drop in the furnace during calcination and the size distribution of furnace stones was used to increase the amount of fine size fractions in the furnace feed without deterioration of the calcination process. Keywords: Dolomite, crushing circuits, kiln stone production, flowability, calcination

Jan 1, 2020

By D. G. Hulbert, I. K. Craig, S. P. Moult

This paper describes the application of a throughput-optimization strategy to a run-of-mine (ROM) mining circuit that is controlled by a multivariable controller. The objective of the optimization strategy is to maximize the ROM throughput at a specific product size. Results from long-term tests, which indicated how 'steady-state' optimization can be achieved, were used for the throughput optimization. This strategy increased the ROM throughput by 11,4 per cent. A mathematical relationship relating residue to grind can be used to calculate the economic benefits of stabilizing control. It was estimated that the throughput optimizer could result in an increase in gold production worth Rl,4 million per annum when waste rock is treated, and that stabilizing control could increase the treatment plants annual revenue by R150 000. If the extra milling capacity brought about by the optimizer is interpreted as a capital cost saving of 10 per cent on the price of a new mil, then a capital cost saving of RI million could result.

Jan 1, 1992

By S. Kauvosaari, M. Olofsson, O. Haavisto, M. Kosonen, J. Martikainen

The target in grinding circuit operation is usually to maximise the throughput and energy efficiency while keeping the product particle size on an optimal level for downstream operations. Furthermore, feed ore variations in size and hardness need to be compensated in order to stabilise the process. This is a challenging task for any circuit and requires good instrumentation, combined with careful control design. This study investigates the control of a two-stage iron ore grinding circuit with an AG and pebble mill at LKAB Kiruna KA3 concentrator in northern Sweden. A new control approach based on multivariable model predictive control (MPC) is designed, implemented and evaluated for the circuit. Additionally, advanced instrumentation including a volumetric charge measurement for grinding mills is utilised. The MPC control approach starts with step tests that are used to model the effect of manipulated variables (MVs) like feed rate, water addition and primary mill speed on controlled variables (CVs) such as final product particle size, power consumption and volumetric charge of the mills. In the control implementation phase, the models are then utilissed together with current process measurements and known operating limits to predict optimal future changes for the manipulated variables in order to reach the desired process output values. It is shown that the new control approach improves the stability of the circuit and reduces energy consumption. Keywords: Model predictive control, grinding, optimisation

Jan 1, 2020

By C. C. Birch

Due to grade estimation uncertainty, two statistical errors can occur. The Type I error is where material is classified as ore and mined, despite the true value being below the break-even grade. This material is dilution. The Type II error is where the material is estimated to be below the cut-off grade and is classified as waste, although the true grade is actually above the break-even grade. This material is not mined and is lost. The uncertainty was assumed to follow a normal distribution in a previous study. For this study, estimated block values are compared to those determined after mining (the best estimate of the true grade). This actual data from four mines shows that the uncertainty follows a Laplace. There is no single solution regarding adjusting the cut-off grade away from the break-even grade, considering estimation uncertainty, that could be applied to all gold mines. However, adjusting the cut-off grade downwards (up to 22% for one mine) is noted when optimizing the profit considering grade uncertainties. This type of adjustment could open up significant mining areas and extend the life of the mine.

Jul 2, 2022

This paper presents a quantitative approach to the problem of determining design capacity and field dimensions of underground coal mines using room- and-pillar mining systems. In evaluating these design variables, relationships among mining costs, number of production sections in mines, location of central shafts, mine field dimensions, section production, mine output, and cost of production losses due to underground man-traveling are analyzed. Thereby the unit cost of coal is expressed as a function of the design variables as well as input parameters such as seam angle, seam thickness, seam depth, underground traveling speed of men, mine recovery and plant recovery. The problem is then formulated as a nonlinear optimization model in terms of minimizing the unit cost of coal subject to a set of constraints and solved analytically for flat seams and numerically for inclined seams. Sensitivity analysis of the variables is also included in the paper.

Jan 1, 1987

By D. Mkhwanazi

The purpose of the project was to optimize load haul dump (LHD) machinery use as they were spending too much time doing what they should not be doing. During the investigation, the author found that the machine's actual availability was 86% and the utilization ranged between 30% and 42%. This shows that the availability of the machine has met its target. Therefore the main problem was with the LHD utilization and that is what the project focuses on. To satisfy the objectives, the author firstly studied the existing mining data like the key performance indicators (KPIs) in order to analyse the machine's availability and utilization; this is what gave direction to the problem. Secondly the author did a literature review on mines with similar problems. This gave the author ideas on what to look at in approaching such a situation. Thirdly, the author gathered information on what the LHDs are doing on a daily basis by doing a time study. This gave the author an idea of how long it took the LHDs to complete a specific task. The author also interviewed operators and their supervisors in order to find the best practice work. This helped in identifying the problem areas when comparing the best practice work with what the LHDs are actually doing. According to the project results, it was found that the LHDs are underutilized due to shortage of drivers and the long distances the LHDs have to travel for material loading and refuelling. The author recommended that the machine utilization should be improved by training more operators in order to eliminate the 'no operator' downtime; the cost arrangement of this recommendation is included in the report. The author also recommended that the travelling time should be reduced by using tractors instead of LHDs when long distances need to be travelled for material loading. Another recommendation for reducing travelling time was to bring the mobile fuel tank closer to a section; the cost arrangement for this recommendation is also included in the report. Keywords Optimizing, LHD utilization, LHD availability, key performance indicators (KPI), shortage of drivers, long distances, mobile fuel tanks.

Jan 1, 2011

By W. Barthel, B. A. Dippenaar, J. Malan

In its most basic form, the process of sintering is very simple, and has been in use since the turn of the previous century. However, while the basic process is simple, control of the process relies on a number of extremely complex interdependent process parameters and requires a thorough understanding of the effect of these parameters on production capacity and product quality. Further, as with many other processes, the process parameters and hence design details of visually similar installations are highly dependant on the specific feed materials. While the industry trend has been towards an increase of capacity in order to lower unit production cost, typically in Iron ore sintering plants, this approach is not always possible for other commodities because of the scale of operation. This paper seeks firstly to describe some design considerations of sinter plants; secondly, to report on results from testwork performed with a specific series Manganese ore blends; and last, to relate these results to the design of new small-scale Manganese ore sinter plants.

Jan 1, 2004

By M. Splaine, W. Davidson, D. C. Atkinson

Since 1964, Nchanga Consolidated Copper Mines, Ltd., has been developing and using production scheduling methods for optimizing its metallurgical operations in the short term (up to one year). Medium-range metallurgical planning has been possible only by successive evaluations of a single-year LP. A modified version of Rosenbrock's direct search technique has now been developed to allow multi-year optimization of both mining and metallurgy for medium-range planning. The modifications to the search technique have produced a marked increase in computational efficiency for this heavily constrained problem in many variables and the system is a usable planning tool, given a reasonably powerful computer. The plans are 'optimum' in the sense that they yield the maximum present value of the operations. Each of the resulting five-yearly mine plans forms the basis for further detailed metallurgical evaluation by the established production scheduling system.

By M. Splaine, W. Davison, D. C. Atkinson

"Since 1964, Nchanga Consolidated Copper Mines, Ltd., has been developing and using production scheduling methods for optimizing its metallurgical operations in the short term (up to one year). Medium-range metallurgical planning has been possible only by successive evaluations of a single-year L.P. A modified version of Rosenbrock's direct search technique has now been developed to allow multi-year optimization of both mining and metallurgy for medium-range planning. The modifications to the search technique have produced a marked increase in computational efffciency for this heavily constrained problem in many variables and the system is a usable planning tool, given a reasonably powerful computer. The plans are 'optimum' in the sense that they yield the maximum present value of the operations.Each of the resulting five-yearly mine plans forms the basis for further detailed metallurgical evaluation by the established production scheduling system."

Jan 1, 2014

By J. W. van der Merwe, A. M. Maleka, V. J. Matjeke

The 10.5–12.5% chromium, titanium-stabilized ferritic stainless steel (FSS) plates used to fabricate coal line jumbo wagons is susceptible to undesirable chromium depletion during welding with 309L electrodes. In this work, non-stabilized FSS plates were welded using 308L welding electrodes. The objective was to weld non-stabilized FSSs using gas-shielded metal arc welding without causing sensitization. The welding process was optimized by lowering the heat input. Sensitization was assessed by rigorous etching techniques and anodic polarization scans. In addition, the welds were subjected to tensile testing, and their fracture surfaces were examined for intergranular cracking. Non-stabilized FSS plates were successfully welded using gas metal arc welding.

Apr 5, 2023

By P. Mühlen, C. Nelson

Process control optimisation depends a lot on the availability of timely data from production to give operators a chance to make adjustments before potential process upsets or disruptions happen. A lot of data is already available with newer and updated machine technologies, but what about the process upsets coming from the raw materials that we use? They are natural products and therefore they are not of a stable composition or mineralogy. The production process depends on a certain chemical or mineralogical stability of the raw materials when they come to a roaster, kiln or sintering stage. Only then can the proposed reactions take place and the equipment be operated at stable temperatures. Laboratory analytical technologies have the limitation that they depend on representative samples and have a long time delay. Therefore online (real time) analysers are used nowadays in mining applications to obtain an early indication of the actual mined or to-be-processed ore. Most available technologies can only analyse inorganic content on an oxide or elemental level. Near infrared (NIR)- based online analysers can overcome that limitation and give a real time analysis of organic as well as inorganic composition, if required on a mineral level. The paper will present two case studies where the NIR online technology was successfully adapted.: a) Optimising refractory gold ore processing at the Goldstrike roaster operation b) Optimising the sinter process at a Japanese manufacturer. Keywords: Analyser, NIR, online, realtime, gold, roaster, iron ore, sinter, mineral phase analysis

Jan 1, 2020

By W. J. Kempson

As a result of the rising electrical energy costs in South Africa, a method was sought to reduce the overall electrical consumption of typical shaft systems. A typical shaft configuration was analysed and the primary energy consumers were identified. The ventilation fans for this system were found to consume 15% of the total energy of the shaft system. It was calculated that more than 50% of this energy is consumed by the shaft itself, more specifically, by the pressure losses that occur in the shaft as the ventilation air passes through it. In order to ensure that the theory being used for the evaluation of these shaft systems is accurate, a total of five shafts were instrumented and the actual pressure losses over the shafts plotted against time. These shafts were then analysed from a theoretical perspective. Finally, in order to ensure a thorough understanding of the behaviour of the ventilation air in shaft systems, the systems were simulated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques. There were significant discrepancies between the theoretical analysis and the CFD simulation during the initial comparisons. This discrepancy lessened as the complexity of the CFD models increased, until when the complete shaft was modelled using the full bunton sets, the pipes, and the flanges, the difference between the theoretical evaluation and the CFD simulation was small. This result demonstrates that the theory is insufficient and that the interrelated effect of the buntons and fittings has not been fully appreciated by current theory. The final phase of the work presented here was to evaluate the costeffectiveness of using different bunton shapes and shaft configurations. It is shown that the increase in the pressure losses and therefore the direct operating costs of the shaft can vary by as much as 80%, depending on the bunton configuration chosen. The placement of the piping in the shaft can increase the pressure losses, and therefore the direct operating costs of the shaft, by as much as 12%, depending on the placement of the piping in the shaft; this effect includes the use of flanges. The use of fairings on a large cage can reduce the resistance that the cage offers to the ventilation flow by as much as 30%. This, however, does not translate into a direct saving because as the cage moves through the shaft, the overall effect is transitory. These savings can be significant when the items highlighted in this work are applied correctly. Keywords shaft design, ventilation, energy consumption, modelling, CFD.

Dec 1, 2013

By F. T. Cawood, C. C. Birc

The South African mineral resource royalty system, initiated in 2010, employs a hybrid ad valorem approach tied to profitability ratios. This rate is then applied to the total revenue from mineral sales. In this article we explore how the profitability ratio in the mineral resource royalty formulae interacts with the gold tax formula as applied to South African gold mines, devising a strategy for cut-off grade optimization. The study focuses on nine narrow, tabular-reef (Witwatersrand) gold mines. The approach involves a mixed-integer cut-off grade optimizer utilizing Excel Solver, incorporating relevant royalty and income tax formulae. Different mineral resource royalty cost scenarios were examined. Ignoring these costs in the break-even analysis lowers the cut-off grade but slightly boosts profits compared to considering expected costs. The developed optimizer model, recognizing the profitability aspect of the mineral resource royalty and income tax formulae, yielded a 6% lower cut-off grade than the base case. This is significant for increasing mine life. While the profit differences are marginal (0.2% compared to the break-even base case), substantial improvements were noted: a 6% increase in stope tons above cut-off grade, and a 4% rise in total revenue. Enhanced resource utilization (3% extra gold kilograms) reduces necessary development and overall costs, allowing for a reduction in the cut-off grade and ultimately, more profit.

Aug 8, 2024

By P. R. Brenchley

Main ore pass systems should last the life of a mine, and too often expensive and hazardous remedial measures are required to repair a damaged ore pass in an attempt to extend its life. In order to maximize the life expectancy of all ore passes at Moab Khotsong, ?wearing blocks? and ?softer support? systems, combined with basic rock engineering principles, have been implemented. Failure of an ore pass can have severe financial implications, both indirectly because the ore pass cannot deliver the broken rock either from level to level or directly in the shaft ore pass system to the required level for tramming to take place, and directly due to the cost of the repair work that is required. Several factors need to betaken into consideration so that production interruptions are eliminated or minimized. Investigations of damaged ore passes at Moab Khotsong and surrounding mines revealed some interesting mechanisms of damage, and some innovative methods of reducing or eliminating the damage have been implemented at Moab Khotsong. The system design was based on 30 years, experience in main shaft rock passes. The design was to counteract scaling, hang-ups and dust problems associated with main rock passes, and the objective was to increase the life of rockpasses. These problems, including the initial design aspects to try and eliminate the repair measures, are discussed in detail.

Jan 1, 2006

By M. Dworzanowski

The difference in the magnetic properties of minerals is the basis for magnetic separation. All minerals can be generally classified as ferromagnetic (strongly magnetic), paramagnetic (weakly magnetic) or diamagnetic (non-magnetic). Magnetic separation can be conducted dry or wet. The majority of the applications of wet magnetic separation in the mining industry are based on the wet drum magnetic separator. The wet drum magnetic separator has been in use for over 50 years and its design is based on a rotating drum installed inside a tank. Inside the drum are stationary, permanent magnets arranged in an arc to provide the magnetic field. These magnets can be of the ceramic ferrite type providing a low intensity magnetic field or of the rare earth type providing a high intensity magnetic field.

Jan 1, 2010

By J. Zwartendyk, A. Azis

Optimizing the public gains from the exploitation of mineral resources By Dr A. AZIS and Dr J. ZWARTENDYK Every nation must decide how it should exploit its mineral resources so as to contribute most to its national objectives. It is argued that the present value of the future corporate income tax flow derived.from mineral exploitation may serve as a useful indicator in moving toward a taxation policy that would contribute optimally toward the greatest public benefit. The future stream of corporate income taxes depends largely on the mineral endowment, consisting of deposits now being mined, known unmined deposits, and unknown deposits. Unknown deposits may be estimated by geological inference. Both known and unknown deposits can be categorized according to grade and size, and divided into economic and uneconomic deposits on the basis of certain prices, costs, rate of return and taxation levels. Computer simulations can be run of discounted cash flow models at various taxation levels to showthe impact of taxation changes on future tax revenues.

By J. Zwartendyk, A. Azis

"Every nation must decide how it should exploit its mineral resources so as to contribute most to its national objectives. It is argued that the present value of the future corporate income tax flow derived from mineral exploitation may serve as a useful indicator in moving toward a taxation policy that would contribute optimally toward the greatest public benefit.The future stream of corporate income taxes depends largely on the mineral endowment, consisting of deposits now being mined, known unmined deposits, and unknown deposits.Unknown deposits may be estimated by geological inference. Both known and unknown deposits can be categorized according to grade and size, and divided into economic and uneconomic deposits on the basis of certain prices, costs, rate of return and taxation levels.Computer simulations can be run of discounted cash flow models at various taxation levels to show the impact of taxation changes on future tax revenues."

Jan 1, 2014