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By Jack O?Hearn

A liquid and solid waste management plan for an operating uranium ore processing mill was developed to efficiently and effectively dispose of existing solid wastes and related, affected surface and ground water resources. The goal of this management plan was to achieve satisfactory clean up of these existing wastes ad their by-products as well as to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future. An existing, modern system of synthetically lined tailings ponds, constructed after many years of mill operations, now provides an approved site for the disposal and containment of waste streams currently generated by the mill. This system was thought to be readily adaptable to serve as a key element of the waste management plan. The potential presence of extra capacity in these ponds could eliminate or reduce expenditures for new facilities required solely for proper management of liquid and solid wastes generated by operations prior to construction of the modern tailings ponds as well as for a range of anticipated future operations.

Jan 1, 1984

By H. Castillo

This paper describes the computer simulation of thermal stress fields generated in the quenching of the ns 415 H Steel automotive parts (Valve Lifters), running the ANSYS Multiphysics software of finite element (FEM). Simulation was performed introducing residual stress measurements on specific values areas, like internal pressure condition in the material. The stress condition effect in the material and the properties as temperature function data, were introduced to the FEM software. The thermal stress simulation was made on the 2D system. The parts were austenized to 850 900 °C and then oil quenched, tempered at 150 -200°C, and air cooled. The X-Ray diffraction technique was made to take measurements from residual stresses on valve lifters surfaces. The results analysis showed the ideal stress condition necessary in raw material to reduce the scrap percent in grind operations after hardening heat treating process. Keywords: Thermal Stresses, Temperature profile, Computer Simulation, Finite element analysis, Quenching of steel, Residual Stresses

Jan 1, 2003

By Anders Salwén

In 1975 T. Nishizawa and A. Chiba reported on observed deviations from the ferrite-austenite local equilibrium in several diffusion couples based on the Fe-Cr system. In order to try to verify these results the austenite-to-ferrite transfonnation in a Fe-20 %Cr-Invalid Code [Fe-]-%Cr diffusion couple held at 1100 for 100 hours has been simulated. The simulation model is based on the postulated principle of maximum dissipation rate of Gibbs energy during transformation, which allows non-equilibrium interface conditions. Keynotes: Computer Simulation, Austenite-to-Ferrite Transfonnation, Diffusion Couple

Jan 1, 2003

Computer simulation of the control systems for the heavy media coal washing process have been presented in this paper. The simulation model applies the Simulink module of the Matlab 5.1 software package and allows monitoring of variations of a

Jan 1, 1998

By G. Plascencia, C. López, J. González, D. Jaramillo, M. A. Barrón

Air jet and molten matte interaction within a Peirce - Smith converter is analyzed during the first stages of blowing using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), by means of the Large Eddy Simulation and Reynolds Stress turbulence models. Jet velocities ranging from 5 to 150 mis, which involve the bubbling and open jet regimes, were considered in 2 and in 3-D numerical simulations. As a result of the computer simulations, it was found that low velocities results in gas bubbling in the molten copper, whereas higher gas velocities results in well defined plumes. The consequence of such different behaviours results in an increment in the rate of refractory wear or in copper splashing respectively. The analysis of the results may lead to improve the design of the tuyeres currently used in copper converting. Bottom blowing of air is also explored in this work. Numerical results show a strong non-linear parabolic behaviour of the jet velocity on the average velocity of copper; which means that beyond certain jet velocity, the copper de-accelerates thus reducing its velocity. This may be due to the open nature of the jet, which prevents the momentum transfer from the injected gas to the molten copper.

Jan 1, 2007

By S. E. Olsen, K. Tang

The complex heterogeneous equilibria associated with the production of manganese ferroalloys have been simulated by employing recently developed thermochemical databases. The non-ideal Mn-Fe-Si-C alloy and the MnO-SiO2-Al2O3-CaO-MgO-FeO slag system have been modelled separately by the compound energy and cellular model. A large number of experimental thermodynamic and phase-equilibrium data were used to evaluate the model parameters for the liquid and solid Mn-Fe-Si-C phases. In addition to the liquid metal phase, solid mixture phases occurring in the Mn-Fe-Si-C system have also been studied. Over 500 measured equilibrium data have been utilised to verify and calibrate the model calculations. The paper will present typical simulation results, from activities of components to multicomponent heterogeneous equilibria. Good agreements can be obtained for many important technological parameters such as carbon solubility, phase relations and equilibrium diagrams, element distribution as function of temperature and slag composition etc. Application of the present models to the silicomanganese production will be demonstrated in this paper.

Jan 1, 2004

By S. L. Barua

An industrial engineering and computer simulation study was conducted on reclamation operations to evaluate the possibility of integrating mining and reclamation operations, and to evaluate the factors which influence the production potential of scrapers. The study was done in a southern Illinois strip coal mine producing approximately 2.27 M metric tons (2.5 million short tons) of clean coal annually. The main outcomes of this study are (a) it is possible to reduce reclamation cost about 20-25 percent by integrating reclamation and mining operations, (b) haul distance has the most significant effect on scraper production, (c) push-pull is the best mode of operation for wheel scrapers for topsoil/subsoil removal, and (d) historical data obtained from the mine for one year show that average dozer productivity in rock grading is about 60 percent lower than the expected production; similar data for scraper is about 25 percent less.

Jan 1, 1981

By D. D. Misra

Though computer simulation of coal beneficiation has been in use for nearly two decades the models used in the programs for the simulation of the crushing processes concentrate mainly on the size distribution. This paper suggests the use of an empirical equation approximating to the cumulative probability or error function for the simulation of the liberation process in coal crushing. The algorithm outlined here can be incorporated in a computer program already having a size distribution model.

Jan 1, 1989

By Gennadiy M. Poletayev, Mikhail D. Starostenkov, Alexandra S. Starostenkova

"The process of the combustion synthesis was modeled by computer simulation using the molecular dynamics method. The set of the critical parameters regulating the velocity of the reaction was found from these computer experiments. It was established that the character of structure-energetical transformations at the combustion synthesis in the systems Ni-Al and TiAl depended on the type of boundaries used for the phases delimitation in the bimetal thin films.IntroductionProducing new materials and products, based on the combustion synthesis (CS), is the objective of scientific investigations as one of the most perspective one for industrial applications. But there are several problems connected with theory and experiment. It allows us to forecast the properties of materials. First of all, the main problems are stipulated by structure-energetical transformations taking place at high velocities of the reaction and at high temperatures. It prevents the analyzing of the transformation mechanisms in materials, taking place at microscopic, atomic levels in details.It is evident, that computer simulation allows to decide some problems and to approach to more exact theoretical presentation of structure-energetical reactions taking place at CS. It is known, that the most typical systems, where CS is observed, are bimetals Ni-Al and Ti-Al. The investigation of interphase boundary stability in the systems of Ni-Al and Ni-Fe was made by the method of molecular dynamics in [1]. The bimetal thin film was presented by the packing of atoms in the plane (111) of FCC lattice. It was found that the discrepancy in the sizes of atoms A and B of bimetal was compensated by the formation of 60° top dislocations, set against interphase boundary in the absence of point defects and free volume. The density of top dislocations was proportional to the factor of size discrepancy of atomic components of the bimetal. Diffusional reconstruction of the interphase boundary and areas, situated near it, was observed only at definite concentration of point defects - vacancies, inculcated in the structure of the bimetal at the definite temperature. The atoms of the bimetal component of less size penetrated in the area of the second component with higher velocity. The clusters of intermetallic germs began to form. It led to the growth of the system temperature and acceleration of the process of the diffusional reconstruction of thin film. The following transformations were found: top dislocations splitted into single ones, which climbed from interphase boundary into the zone of more plastic component; the formation of sub grain structures took place."

Jan 1, 2001

By Ernest M. Spokes, Martin A. Thieme

A simulation model developed to analyze scraper-pusher utilization in open pit mining systems is described. The mining simulator discussed was developed as a tool to aid management in evaluating alternative open pit haulage schemes and to reduce the risk involved in the selection of equipment.

Jan 1, 1973

By Szymanski J

The problems associated with underground mining continue to grow in size and complexity. As a result mine management is becoming aware of the benefits that can be achieved through the use of computer-oriented tools for system analysis. When such tools are employed in conjunction with benchmarking practices, the drivers of the system that lead to superior performance can more easily be determined. This paper discusses the use of the Simulation Language for Alternative Modelling (SLAM II) in the determination of the drivers of an underground room-and-pillar mining system. The mining operations included in the model consist of extracting, loading and hauling of the coal using continuous mining equipment in a room and pillar system. Equipment specifications and mining techniques used in the model are based upon current methods employed at the existing underground coal mines worldwide. The model developed is capable of adequately predicting the operational performance of the real world system from a statistical point of view. The results from the study show that computer simulation is an excellent tool for evaluating various mine configurations and for gaining a better understanding of the mining systems.

Jan 1, 1995

By A Mehrani, F Zamani, A Dehghani

Vibrating screens play an important role in the dry classification circuit of Gol-e-Gohar iron ore processing plant. This circuit was designed to classify the autogenous mill discharge and produce a suitable feed, with K80 about 450 ¦m, for dry magnetic separators. Three parallel vibrating screens produce more than 50 per cent of the separatorÆs feed. The efficiency of the magnetic separator is greatly affected by feed size distribution. In this work, the JKSimMet 5.1 software was used as an analysing tool to assess the flow rates and USIM PAC3 software as the simulation tool to control and optimise the vibrating screens. Samples were collected and the circuit was mass balanced. Then the vibrating screen was simulated and adjustment parameters such as cut-point, bypass and imperfection factor were determined. The product streams of vibrating screens can also be predicted.

Jan 1, 2007

By Antoni Czubak

It is difficult to simulate properly the vibratory transport. One does not know how to describe the influence of a bulk material layer on the transporting trough. There are few approaches, but none is satisfactory enough. Author proposes to apply a model of a dynamic dumper which simulates periodical collisions between material and the trough, when they are coming to the contact after the free flight of material above the trough. Computer calculates average speed of transported material and handling output as well. When the quantity of material on the trough is known, then the force of the dynamic dumper could be calculated. This force together with the exciting force of the vibrator are introduced into equations describing the model of a mutti- mass conveyor. The basic goal of simulation is to find the required exciting force and the power of an electromagnetic vibrator. it is possible to find optimal data of designed elements of vibratory conveyors as well.

Jan 1, 1996

By Harrison J

The correct selection of equipment to use in a mine is a problem which constantly faces the mining engineer. In some cases a wide choice of equipment with different operating characteristics is available. If this equipment is to be used to assist in moving the ore it may be possible to build a computer simulation model to predict how it will perform. Typical problems that lend themselves to this type of analysis are presented. The computer models are constructed using a recent form of the GPSS computer language, namely GPSS/PC for the personal computer. This language allows the programmer to construct models in a very short time and at a low cost. Of great importance is the easy way in which it is possible to change the models to answer any of the "what if?" questions the engineer may pose.

Jan 1, 1987

The paper describes a computer model developed within the State Electricity Commis- sion of Victoria for use in open cut planning. The purpose of the model is to simulate all the typical occurrences in, and influences on, the coal supply and overburden disposal systems in order to be able to assess their performance. The model incorporates much of the long term and day-to-day operations planning logic required for the allocation of resources within an open cut. This logic takes account of power station demands, bunker stocks, plant and crew availability, the balance of reserves between dredgers, planned maintenance, etc. The perfor- mance of plant within the system is simulated using random selections from statistical distri- butions of Time to Failure and Time of Failure for each plant item. The application of the model in selecting a suitable bunker capacity in a notional open cut development is described to illustrate the potential of the model in optimising plant selection.

Jan 1, 1982

By Huo Zuzhao

The main feature of caving methods is to draw ore from the overlying waste rock. Research on the movements of ore and waste plays a very important part in reducing ore loss and dilution and raising the economic benefits. This paper gives the basic theory of computer simulation of ore-draw, exposses the physical significance of mathematical model, puts forword a new formula of similarity characteristic value, brings forth a method of adjusting similarity, introduces the major functions of the simulation program and describes the ore draw control and stope parameter selection through computer simulation.

Jan 1, 1986

By John T. Bartlett

During the last decade, the increasing price of gold has renewed interest in the various metallurgical techniques for recovering precious metals. Much of the recent technology advance has been aimed at low grade deposits resulting in more complex processes and the necessity of tighter economic control. These factors along with more stringent environmental constraints have made it necessary to optimize each process to minimize energy and raw material consumption and reduce waste discharge. In most cases, detailed process analysis is required to detect inefficiencies and provide alternative solutions for process improvement. Also during this same period, the computer has become widely accepted and computerized mathematical modeling has been applied to an increasingly broader range of problems. Microcomputer based process modeling and simulation systems are routinely used to analyze and improve communition, hydrometallurgical, and pyrometallurgical processes for the recovery of precious metals.

Jan 1, 1987

By Sean Gallagher, Thomas R. Battenhouse, August J. Kwitowski, John R. Bartels, Dean H. Ambrose

Problem: Incident investigation reports do not usually contain enough information to aid in studying boom arm vertical speed for roof bolting machines to determine the impact that appendage speed had on an operator's risk of experiencing a contact. Laboratory experiments with human subjects are also not feasible because of safety and ethical issues. Method Researchers successfully developed a three-dimensional computer model that uses virtual human simulation software as the primary means to gather contact data when the boom arm touches the operator's hand, arm, head, or leg. Results: Data analysis of roof bolter simulations shows that the speed of the boom arm is the most important factor in determining the risk of an operator making contact. Regardless of other variables, contact incidents were always greater when the bolter arm was moving up, greater on the hand, and greater for the boom arm part of the machine. The reason why the subject experiences more contacts when the boom arm is moving up rather than down is that more risky behaviors occur during drilling and bolting when the boom arm is ascending. Based on the data collected, boom speeds greater than 13 in/sec result in a substantial increase in risk to the roof bolter operator of making contact. Speeds less than or equal to 13 in/sec are associated with a more modest relative risk of making contact, which represents a decrease in potential hazard. Impact on Industry: The use of such information can be quite helpful in making recommendations to machine design and task procedures to reduce the likelihood that roof bolter operators will experience injury due to contact with a moving roof bolting machine's boom arm.

By C. Beckennann, C. Y. Wang

"Computer simulations of structural and compositional development in equiaxed dendritic alloy solidification are performed using a recently developed multi phase model. The model not only accounts for the transport phenomena occurring on the macroscopic (system) scale, but includes also the grain nucleation and growth mechanisms taking place at various microscopic length scales. In this paper, a numerical technique consisting of a fully implicit control-volume based finite difference method and a multiple time step scheme is developed for accurate and efficient simulations of both micro- and macro-phenomena. Sample numerical results are presented to reveal the effects of liquid now and crystal sedimentation on segregation and the final grain size distribution. In particular, the importance of the interplay between the dendrite microstructure and multiphase now patterns is shown.IntroductionIn recent years, modeling of equiaxed dendritic solidification without convection has experienced considerable progress (1,2]. Nucleation and growth kinetic laws have been coupled with transient heat conduction calculations to determine the solidification microstructure. However, modeling of equiaxed dendritic solidification with melt convection and solid movement has not been attempted so far, largely because of the complications associated with the transport of free equiaxed crystals in the melt. The gravity-induced transport of free crystals is fundamental to the development and extent of the equiaxed zone and also greatly affects the columnar to equiaxed transition. Another possible effect of crystal sedimentation or floatation is to cause severe macrosegregation as well as structural inhomogeneities. The only study available in the literature that accounts for both liquid convection and solid transport is by Ni and Beckermann (3], but deals with globulitic structures (as opposed to dendritic)"

Jan 1, 1994

Sishen uses a state-of-the-art tracking system to track material from its position in blast blocks through various stockpiles and crushers. Qualities are blended directly to the crusher as opposed to blending from stockpiles. This poses an interesting challenge to the planning department to simulate these conditions. The software used in these simulations are Whittle 4X and Maximiser for long-term planning, Xpac for medium-term planning and Mine Works Planner for short-term planning. Geological models and mine design layouts utilise Surpac. Sishen introduced Xpac a number of years ago; the system has developed and changed over the years. With the Sishen Expansion Project (SEP), which aims to utilise low-grade material, major changes to the planning process have to occur. SEP requires that the mine have two different plants, which utilise two different ROM feeds and have different beneficiation curves. Xpac is used to produce a rolling 18-month plan, which is as close to actual operations as possible. In order to do this, the simulations have to take into account the plants beneficiation curves, stockpile movements, hauling distance and equipment needs. On top of this, the schedule has to continually consider specifications for Fe and the contaminants. Plant yields also have to be kept within a certain bandwidth. Xpac is used to simulate the above parameters, as well as generate the raw data required to produce a mine budget. The paper will also show how the 18-month planning process and subsequent planning processes are measured and aligned. Xpac has proved to be an excellent tool to achieve these goals.

Jan 1, 2005