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This report is the 21st in a series summarizing research and technologic work on coal and related investigations by the Federal Bureau of Mines - the Chard of the series published on a calendar-year basis 2/ Subject publica¬tions of the Bureau during 1956 are cited, and pertinent Bureau work is described briefly. The most effective method of conserving our important coal reserves is through improved technology of production and utilization. Associated problems form the program of the Bureau.3 4 5 6/ Potential production is depend¬ent on a knowledge of the quantity and quality of the reserves, and the Bureau continues to contribute information on this subject. Many problems are being studied that relate to improvements in current production, including mining methods and health and safety measures. Preparation of mined coal is necessary for its most efficient utilization. Preparation by conventional methods is being studied, as well as the development or new methods. Fundamental studies on the structure and properties of coal are necessary to insure full advantage of the special qualities of different coals. Controlling factors in the efficient use of coal in combustion, carbonization, gasification, and direct and indirect hydrogenation of coal are being studied continuously, and new processes are being investigated. The many advances in all these fields are discussed.

Jan 1, 1959

By N. H. J. Freire, D. Majuste

In this paper, the effects of some organic compounds on the current efficiency, cell voltage and specific energy consumption during nickel electrowinning, and on the deposit features (morphology, crystallographic orientation and nanohardness) were described. The organics tested here (extractant, diluent, flocculant, lubricating oil and acid mist suppressant) are currently used in industrial plants. The results indicated that only the flocculant and acid mist suppressant exhibit relevant negative impacts on the current efficiency and energy consumption. The current efficiency dropped from 93.6 % (organic-free solutions) to 86.0 % and to 92.8% in electrolytes containing 100 mg.L-1 of acid mist suppressant and flocculant, respectively. At this concentration, their addition to the electrolyte led to increases of the specific energy consumption in the order of 18 % (acid mist supressant) and 2 % (flocculant). Cyclic voltammetry showed that Ni nucleation occurs at more negative potentials at 50 and 100 mg.L-1 of these organics in the electrolyte, thus indicating an inhibition of the deposition process. The deposit quality decreased at the higher concentration of all organics, when more hydrogen pitting was observed. The acid mist suppressant caused delamination of the Ni deposit at 50 and 100 mg.L-1. The addition of 100 mg.L-1 of flocculant and acid mist suppressant to the electrolyte increased the nanohardness of the deposit around 31 and 72%, respectively. The increase in Ni deposit hardness may lead to a decrease in the material ductility, thereby affecting the stripping and cutting of Ni sheets. Our findings may be helpful since strong adverse effect of some organics that may be present in the electrolyte were identified, thus the industry can control and optimize the organic´s dosage in the corresponding operations.

Jan 1, 2016

By Grant R. Brown

This report presents the results of a study examining the relationship between supervisor characteristics and performance in underground coal mines, The specific objectives of the research include; document tasks performed by first-line supervisors during a normal shift; explain why supervisors carry out their duties as they do: identify salient characteristics of effective first-line supervisors; and formulate criteria for selecting and developing candidate supervisors. To accomplish the study objectives, on-site observation and data collection was carried out at 13 underground mines in Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. One hundred thirty-eight first-line supervisors were observed during a full work-shift and discussions with the supervisors and the mine superintendent were held during the course of the visit. The observational data from the study provide a detailed description of what supervisors to during their shift. The report begins with an introduction discussing the problem being studied and objectives of the research. The literature related to supervisor selection is then reviewed. The following section describes the research design including data collection procedures and statistical methodology used in the study. The next sections present the analysis of mine, section, crew, and supervisor characteristics. The report concludes with a discussion of the results of the study and recommendations concerning supervisor selection and development.

Jan 1, 1987

By AIME AIME

QUALITY and size do not ordinarily go hand in hand, but there is good evidence that both these attributes reached a new peak at the Annual Meeting of the Institute in New York just concluded. Certainly, the total attendance of 2500 was far above any yet attained, as might be expected with the recent rapid growth of Institute member- ship. General comment indicates that the quality of the papers also was notable, though not measurable by so definite a yardstick as attendance. During the meeting 49 technical sessions were held, at which more than 250 formal papers were presented. In addition, there were some thirty special meetings of committees, Divisions, and other Institute groups. In reporting the Annual Meeting eleven years ago the statement was made that "unless the Engineering Societies should build for themselves a new building it is probable that no meeting can be larger," and "the fifth floor, where a buffet lunch is served each day, has reached its full capacity and it seems quite evident that any future development of Institute meetings must be along the lines of quality, not size." Unfortunately the angel to succeed Andrew Carnegie, who financed the building of the present home of the Institute 35 years ago, has not yet ' appeared. Even if some one would merely build another elevator or two in the present building it would help. Fortunately, the modern auditorium of the American Radiator & Standard

Jan 1, 1940

By J. L. Christie, R. H. Leach

SO much has been written recently about the use of silver to replace scarce metals that certain facts about silver and its uses should be of interest. Figures for the production and use of silver, taken from the Handy & Harman annual reviews of the silver market, are given in Table 1. It will be seen that the rate of production has remained fairly constant and has been affected in recent years by the production of base metals, of which silver is a by-product. In each of the years 1937, 1938, and 1939, the U.S. Government acquisitions alone exceeded the entire world production, the difference, of course, being made up by imports of previously accumulated stocks. In 1940 and 1941 the U. S. Government acquisitions plus the United States and Canadian uses in the arts and industries exceeded the Western Hemisphere production. The U.S. Government pays a premium price for silver newly mined in the United States, at present 71.11c. compared with the price of 35'/8c. for foreign silver, with the result that the current U. S. production is not used commercially for the arts and industries. At the time this is written (June 1942) there is much uncertainty as to the future effect of this situation.

Jan 1, 1942

By Donald S. Colby

This Bureau of Mines report is essentially a handbook, or manual, for making the type of mineral resource valuation commonly required for such public policy problems as mineral leasing. The principle of resource valuation through the capitalization of cash flow is well established. A mathematical procedure, based on a simplified accounting system, is detailed for calculating cash flow from revenue, plant costs, and operating expense. Variations of procedure cover cost depletion, percentage depletion, and depletion limited to 50 percent of net income. The influence of the depletion provisions of the tax regulations on the value of a resource to an owner and to an operator is analyzed. The relationship of royalty, bonus payments, and sales price to resource value is also described, and methods for approximating resource values using these payments as input data are developed.

Jan 1, 1969

By Walter W. Kaufman

This Bureau of Mines manual for design of surface mine haulage roads covers such aspects of haulage road design as road alinement (both vertical and horizontal), construction materials, cross slope, and drainage provisions. Traffic control and design of proper lane widths to promote safe vehicle movement are included, as are suggested criteria for road and vehicle maintenance and for runaway-vehicle safety provisions. The aim of this publication is to provide those involved with surface mine haulage road design with a complete manual of recommended practices that, if implemented, will promote safer, more efficient haulage routes.

Jan 1, 1977

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 John P. Harmon

Vehicles traveling on untreated dirt and gravel roads at open-pit mines disseminate high concentrations of dust (fig. 1). Excessive dust creates safety hazards by reducing visibility and may endanger the health of the men who breathe it. If the dust contains free silica, it can cause silicosis. In addition, maintenance costs of mechanical equipment are increased if equipment is operated in extremely dusty places. Dust on haulage roads in hot, arid country can be controlled if the surface of the road is sprinkled frequently and adequately with water. Often, when roads are sprinkled with water to control the dust, hazards are caused through reduced traction and skidding because of the mud that is formed on the surface of the road. Reducing the amount of water used will help to reduce the hazard of skidding.

Jan 1, 1957

"THE CONCEPT of energy as a commodity, while not entirely new, is not as widespread as the importance of the idea to this modern world would lead one to expect. The growth in the supply and use of energy over the past years has been tremendous, but our very closeness and familiarity have somewhat distorted the viewpoint, particularly of the younger generation. To many of us who remember the wonderful satisfaction of our first responsibility for directing two horsepower hitched to a farm cart or hay wagon, there still arises a feeling of some awe at the casual flick of the switch with which our sons and daughters summon to their convenience the service of some one hundred or more horsepower.Energy is the vital component of our existence and, no matter what contempt our day-to-day familiarity may •breed, it is wise to .pause from time to time and consider our national energy standing. Have we still capital in the bank? Are our expenditures wisely •conceived and well directed? Is provision being made for the years •ahead for the needs of our children and our children's children?"

Jan 1, 1953

By W. J. Bennett

"I AM very happy to have this opportunity of speaking to the Montreal Branch of the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.I have selected as the subject of my remarks transportation in that area which is at present our only source of uranium -Northwest Canada. Considering the widespread interest in atomic energy, the end-product of uranium, it may be wondered why I have not chosen to speak of a more spectacular aspect of the development. I hope it will be evident from what I have to say that transportation plays a very dominant role in our effort to maintain a continuing supply from Eldorado's producing property at Port Radium on Great Bear lake and from its coming producer at Beaver lodge Lake in Northwest Saskatchewan. Moreover, transportation has such a bearing on the entire mineral development of the Northwest that it cannot help but be of concern to an organization of this kind. Finally, the transportation problem, of which I shall try to tell you something, is quite unique and the story of its solution or partial solution is, I believe, an interesting one.Transportation experience on this continent indicates that the cheapest method of moving freight is still by water -with •rail, highway, and air transportation following, and in that order •of economic significance. Excluding rail transportation, since the area has as yet no railway lines, this order also applies in the Northwest. I shall direct my remarks to the two kinds of transportation which serve our uranium producers -water and air."

Jan 1, 1952

By A G. L Pratt

The record for autonomous haulage systems in underground mining over the past 15 years is patchy, marked by many trials and attempts, with few examples of sustained operation until relatively recently. The drivers for the introduction of this technology are variously listed as the occupational health and safety of people working in underground mines, reductions in direct operating costs and increases in productivity.This paper reviews the trends for operation of semi-autonomous and autonomous haulage achieved by underground mines and the defining features of the technology currently available. The inclusion of autonomous haulage as part of mining studies and the fundamental conditions for its successful application is discussed in the paper. The components required for an autonomous underground haulage system are outlined and the key aspects that need to support its effective implementation are examined together with their associated opportunities and risks. Special note is made of the critical role people, including executive leadership, have in ensuring the successful introduction of this technology.The paper draws on published case study material, equipment supplier information and research findings. The aim is to offer a high-level insight into what is required for the application of autonomous haulage technology and its successful implementation in underground mines.CITATION:Pratt, A G L, 2016. Autonomous haulage systems in underground mining – what is required for success? In Proceedings International Mine Management Conferenc, pp 35-52 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Jun 22, 2016

By Ian M. F. Arnold

"Occupational health programs and their role in improving the quality of working life in the mining industry are discussed. Attention is directed to some problems peculiar to the Canadian mining industry. Factors affecting program development are reviewed, as well as parameters affecting cost-benefit analyses.IntroductionThe quality of working life in the mining industry is a more important consideration than in many other industrial environments because of the very nature of the undertaking. It was a strange paradox of the 1960s that preventive maintenance programs for machinery and equipment were well accepted, whereas the concept of ""preventive people medicine"" was basically ignored. Fortunately, there seems to be a swing toward the development of occupational health programs in many sectors of the business community; however, there is a noticeable lack of consistency and uniformity for thought among the members of the mining industry. The blame for this lack o f progress in the occupational field cannot be entirely attributed to the industry, but must also rest with (for the most part) apathetic and inadequately trained physicians. This latter problem is slowly improving with the growing recognition that a well-planned and executed occupational health program may improve the quality of working life for mining employees and their families.There are a number of factors which relate to occupational health in mining, and its effect on working life quality. Included among these are:1. Community isolation.2. High accident risks.3. Occupational disease risks.4. Production demands and the state of the economy.5. Government regulatory requirements.6. Travel demands.These, and others, reflect on all levels of the mining industry. To examine how these factors can be moderated by an occupational health program, it is necessary to first review the rationale for such a program and some of the costs related to it."

Jan 1, 1983

A symposium on pneumatic transportation of solids was held at Morgantown, W. Va., October 19-20, 196'), under the cosponsorship of the Institute ref Gas Technology. Chicago, Ill., and the Bureau of Mines. Objective of the symposium was to present information on developments and projected programs in the technology of feeding, transporting, recompressing, and utilizing gas-solids mixtures Dr. Henry R. Linden, Director, Institute of Gas Technology and Harry Perry, Director of Coal Research, Bureau of Mines, in the initial addresses at the symposium welcomed more than 140 representatives of industry, educational institutions, and government from 16 states, Canada, Great Britain, etc.

Jan 1, 1966

A symposium on pneumatic transportation of solids was held at Morgantown, W. Va., October 19-20, 1965, under the cosponsorship of the Institute ref Gas Technology. Chicago, Ill., and the Bureau of Mines. Objective of the symposium was to present information on developments and projected programs in the technology of feeding, transporting, recompressing, and utilizing gas-solids mixtures. Dr. Henry R. Linden, Director, Institute of Gas Technology, and Harry Perry, Director of Coal Research, Bureau of Mines, in the initial addresses at the symposium welcomed more than 140 representatives of industry, educational institutions, and government from 16 states, Canada, Great Britain, etc.

Jan 1, 1966

By John E. Willson

Typical of southwestern Wyoming are coal structures that dip from 4 degrees to 17 degrees. Those at the Reliance and Winton mines of the Union Pacific Coal Company average 9 1/2 degrees and 15 degrees, respectively, and dip almost directly to the west. By using a hoist for main haulage. a method of mining has been developed whereby four places are driven on the pitch of the seam. Slightly upgrade from the strike at intervals of 300 feet, a two-entry system is driven to the north and to the south. In both fields, which are non-gassy, an exhaust system of ventilation is used. Slope, manway, and lower or haulage entries are placed on the intake. Two air-courses and upper or breaking entries are placed on the return. A retreat system of mining is used exclusively. From the opening of its first coal mine, in the year 1868, until 1923, when the Joy Loader was introduced into the Union Pacific Coal Company's operations, slopes, aircourses and manways were driven by hand. Development work was conducted on the night shift or off shift, and the main hoist was used for haulage. The slope was driven down the pitch with crosscuts turned at intervals of 75 feet and entries at 230 feet. Connections to the workings above were made by driving up the pitch 75 feet. Mule haulage was used to furnish cars to the hand loaders driving planes up the pitch. A sheave was placed at the upper end of the plane with a 1 1/4¬ inch hemp rope doubling around it and having one end attached to the car and the other to the mule. The mule, pulling downhill, raised to the working face a small wooden car of one-ton capacity.

Jan 1, 1941

By P Ring, B Cooper, C Carr, G Laing

The Nova Ni-Cu-Co Operation, located in the Fraser Range of Western Australia, commenced commercial production in July 2017 only five years after discovery. Owned by Independence Group NL (IGO), the operation has successfully ramped up over an accelerated schedule and currently deploying leading technologies. This paper begins with a description of the Nova Operation, and its journey to achieve full production in such a short time frame. It includes discussions on development and production design, selection of fixed plant infrastructure, and the features challenges of running a low-pressure primary ventilation circuit. The paper also discusses key technologies that have improved overall safety for the underground workforce, and improved operational efficiencies. Investigations continue into the implementation of further technological applications for safety and productivity enhancements. This paper also discusses the findings from a study into transitioning from a diesel to an all-electric underground mining fleet, based on a review of Nova if it were to be developed today with the current EV offerings. The study indicates compelling savings will be available to future mines when considering development design, project schedule, capital outlay and operational savings, and the ‘next Nova’ is expected to be all electric.

Mar 15, 2021

By P. -M. Tardif, S. Outalha, R. Le

"This paper proposes a new direction to implement an underground mine communication system. It presents actual underground communication systems and discusses their technological limits. A new system based on a wireless local area network (WLAN), together with its main systems characteristics, is then proposed. This paper also presents an experimental protocol for radio frequency propagation measurements. Finally, the paper describes the projected implementation of a WLAN in an experimental mine. IntroductionDuring the last decade, a number of Canadian mining companies have invested in modern communications systems in order to automate processes and reduce operational costs. Safety of miners is also a concern, regulated by health and safety regimes.Underground communication systems rely mainly on analog technology (especially the leaky feeder). Digital upgrades have been made to modernize this technology using a coaxial or fibre optic cable to transmit voice, documents, commands, controls, and video. Therefore, all wired equipment can benefit from an increase in efficiency from the digital technology.However, when it comes to mobile equipment, the only medium was, and is, still radio waves. With the advent of the wireless local area network (WLAN) standard, one can use a technology similar to that of the cellular phone to connect transparently different equipment. WLAN enables the transmission at rates higher than 2 M bits of voice, documents, commands, controls, identification, and of course, digital video. This technology was developed with inbuilding use in mind. Now, one can try to adapt it to underground mines."

Jan 1, 2000

Discussion of the papers with a written contribution and authors' written replies.

Jan 1, 1947

Despite modest improvements in the performance of domestic interest rates and gross national product,1 fixed investment in domestic producers' durable equipment continued to weaken during the second quarter of 1982 and declined at a 12.8 percent annual rate compared with the first quarter.2 Large declines occurred during the second quarter in expenditures on many of the major mineral-consuming industries such as aircraft, computers, agricultural and construction machinery and mining and oil field equipment. These data appear to be consistent with the low level of business investment plans for 1982 reported in the DOC's Bureau of Economic Analysis survey of expenditures on new plant and equipment.3 Domestic and foreign industrial production and mineral industry production activities continued to decline in the most recent period because of weak demand conditions (Tables 1 and 2). The U.S. mining production index declined 7.7 percent between April and June as compared with 1.2 percent for total U.S. industrial production (Table 1).

Jan 1, 1982