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By P S. Jaitawat, M Sarim, M P. Roy, P K. Singh, A Joshi

Mining is being carried out using the sublevel open stoping method at the Kayad underground mine. The mine will ultimately reach a depth of 390 m. Kayad village is only 100 m (horizontally) from the underground mining areas. As a result, blast-induced ground vibration is one of the major issues for the residents of the village. This paper deals with the process involved in optimising blast design parameters at the development face blast, slot raise blast and ring hole blast to control blast-induced vibration within safe limits while ensuring improved production, productivity and safety. In total, 1041 development face blasts, 110 slot raise blasts and 52 ring hole blasts were conducted, and 2612 vibration data were monitored in the village at different locations. Initially, electronic delay detonators were used, with an emphasis on controlling vibration in the surface structures. Subsequently, shock tube (Nonel) initiations were used as the blasting faces reached lower depths. A comparative study was also performed for both the initiation systems. The orebody width generally varied from 3.1 to 7 m, and ring hole designs were optimised accordingly. The number of holes in a ring was up to seven and the depth was up to 23 m, depending on the size/width of the orebody. The ring blasts were performed with 64–340 kg of emulsion cartridge explosive and detonated with explosive weight per delay of 10.92–17.16 kg. Extensive experiments were performed and blast-induced vibrations were controlled in the village. Deck blasting (ie up to four explosives decks) was used in a blasthole and the explosive charges were separated by delay detonators, which helped to control the vibration in the village. The actual detonation time of each deck was recorded by monitoring the in-hole velocity of detonation of the explosives, and the charging patterns were optimised accordingly to get the desired blast results.CITATION:Roy, M P, Singh, P K, Sarim, M, Jaitawat, P S and Joshi, A, 2015. Blast design and vibration control at Kayad lead-zinc underground mine, in Proceedings 11th International Symposium on Rock Fragmentation by Blasting, pp 533–544 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Aug 24, 2015

By D Roldpo, M Vidigal, J F. C L Costa

The local cumulative distribution function (lcdf) of a selective mine unit (SMU) can be estimated by conditional simulations using the statistics derived from the sample points, generating multiple equally probable scenarios. Conditional simulations permit the evaluation of the lcdf at any support, taking into account the spatial variability, ie the variogram, and the two statistical moments, mean and variance, of the conditioning samples. The SMU ore losses and dilution depend on the mining method and mining equipment selectiveness that, in its turn, depends on the predicted block size. A new approach to predict ore loss and dilution was developed in this study. Monte Carlo simulation is used to randomly generate a grade value derived from the lcdf at the mining stage (Zs_mc(t)) in order to make a decision about the SMU destination, ie processing plant (ORE) or waste dump (WASTE). If Zs_mc(t) is lower or equal to the cut-off (Z_cut-off) the block is ORE and, conversely, if Zs_mc(t) is higher than the cut-off (Z_cut-off) the block is WASTE. Considering these binary destinations ORE/WASTE, at the mining time t, and combining each realisation of the simulated random function Zcs_i (X), there are four possibilities for each SMU simulated value: 1. the block was simulated as ore and is actually ore (OO), 2. the block was simulated as ore and is actually waste (OW),3. the block was simulated as waste and is actually ore (WO), and 4. the block was simulated as waste and is actually waste (WW).The dilution factor is given by possibility 3 (WO), while the ore loss factor is represented by possibility 2 (OW). These results comprise the classical classification and reconciliation plots used in the mining industry. The new procedure proposed in this paper is based on the use of all the equally probable simulations to define the ore loss and dilution factors. An application of this methodology was carried out at Vale's iron mine in Brazil. The grade of silica was simulated and 50 multiple equally probable 3D models were generated. The mean and the standard deviation of the ore tonnage (OO + WO) for the 50 realisations, was 233 Mt and 0.5 Mt, respectively. The mean grade increased for the diluted ore (OO + WO) as well as their respective coefficient of variation (CV). The CV increases from 62 per cent in the undiluted ore (OO), to 101 per cent in the ore, considering the dilution factor (OO + WO). The mean ore loss (OW) was 10 Mt and the waste tonnage dilution (WO) was 9 Mt.

Jan 1, 2009

By A Grace, C Sennersten, T Taylor, A Davie, R Lyu, D Pentecost, C A. Lindley, J Craig, L De Macedo Camargo

Many underground mine void spaces are not suitable for human entry due to unprotected roofs, instability or having an unknown safety state (eg if they are many decades old). Investigations of these voids may nevertheless be important for general mine safety, for example to detect propagating collapses or water accumulation, prevent accidental intrusion by new developments or drilling to reassess old spaces for re-mining. Robots are an ideal technology for investigating these spaces, especially flying, rotary-wing robots that can access and map vertical structures and spaces while avoiding rocks, water and mud that have accumulated on void floors. To operate in underground mines, we are developing customised unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as well as interactive 3D virtual models of the vehicles and their underground environments for controlling vehicle operation and visualising incrementally gathered survey data. Using a game/simulation engine to provide an interactive interface for UAV operation makes it possible to orchestrate external spatial information and video feeds with in-game cameras for optimal visualisation that is not limited to the position, orientation or field of view of cameras mounted on the UAV. First and third-person points of view with respect to the UAV are provided, together with 2D and 3D gaze tracking to provide effective interfaces for geology and mine engineering experts without the need for specialist UAV piloting skills. Ongoing work is addressing the provision of greater levels of autonomy for these vehicles to support mapping well beyond the line of sight of operators and geological characterisation of rock surfaces using sensors mounted on them, including miniature X-ray fluorescence and Raman spectrometers. Gathered data is fed into more general 3D models of the mine, block models and orebody so that the UAVs function as elements of a mobile perceptual system for intelligent mining.CITATION:Sennersten, C, Lindley, C A, Davie, A, Lyu, R, Grace, A, Evans, B, Pentecost, D, Taylor, T, De Macedo Camargo, L, Craig, J, Salomao, G N, Hellicar, A, Biggins, D, Timms, G, Coombe, M, Shahriar, M S, Smith, G and Rahman, A, 2015. Unmanned aerial robots for remotely operated and autonomous surveying in inaccessible underground mine voids, in Proceedings Third International Future Mining Conference, pp 101–108 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Nov 4, 2015

By S Kakara, A Kamaraj, S S. Varanasi, B V. R Mandalika, M B. Shaik

The properties of top slags play a very important role in secondary steelmaking. Fluxes should be chosen based on the ladle furnace (LF) slag requirements like viscosity, melting temperature, sulfide capacity, etc. CaF2 and CaO-Al2O3-based synthetic slags are the most used fluxes in secondary steelmaking to improve slag fluidity and interfacial chemical reactions. CaF2 is obsolete due to fluorine pollution and CaO-Al2O3 based slags have 40–50 wt per cent Al2O3 and 30–40 per cent CaO which is not beneficial for desulfurisation. Yet another drawback is that LF slag disintegrates into fine powder during cooling due to phase transformation C2S (2CaO.SiO2). Hence, there is a need for the development of low melting fluxes with high CaO content and the capability to prevent slag disintegration. The current work studied the effect of 0–9 wt per cent B2O3 on physico-chemical properties and characterisation of LF slags. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were carried out to identify mineralogical phases present in slag and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis was done to understand the changes in bonds of B2O3 added LF slag. The characteristic temperature of slag was determined by a hemispherical method using high-temperature microscopy. Empirical models were used to calculate viscosity, break temperature, and sulfide capacity. FactSage™, ver 8.2 (by GTT-Technologies) simulations were carried out to find the equilibrium phase fractions and percentage of liquid slag at different temperatures. New phases such as Ca11B2Si4O22 and Ca2B3O5 were formed in LF slag with B2O3 addition. Based on the results, 0.5–1.0 wt per cent B2O3 was found to be sufficient to prevent C2S-driven disintegration of LF slag. Also, the melting temperature and viscosity of LF slag were reduced by adding 3–8 wt per cent B2O3 due to the formation of BO3 planar triangular structure and low melting eutectics in slag. Liquid slag started forming at a temperature as low as 800°C when B2O3 is >6 wt per cent. It was found that the sulfide capacity, viscosity, and break temperature of the slag decreased with increasing wt per cent B2O3. Based on the analysis carried out, B2O3 can be a promising fluxing material in secondary steelmaking, for improving the desulfurisation kinetics and valourisation potential of LF slag.

Aug 21, 2024

By M I. Pownceby, M A. Rhamdhani, D M. Fellicia, S Palanisamy, R Z. Mukhlis

The trend of global copper production has prospectively increased over time. Based on typical mined ore grades, 1 t of copper ore generates approximately 6–10 kg of copper, which requires much energy, usually in the form of metallurgical coke. Copper production using carbon as a fuel and reductant contributes up to 0.3 per cent to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As a result, research into decarbonisation processes applicable to reducing low-grade copper sulfide ores, copper oxides, electronic wastes and other alternative complex Cu-rich materials has increased. Alternative fuels for reducing carbon-rich emissions in pyrometallurgical copper processing include methane, ammonia, biomass, solar and wind power, but in recent times increased focus has been on hydrogen as a potential fuel and reducing agent for materials such as oxidised copper scrap, Cu2O/CuO and Cu-rich slags/e-wastes. From a thermodynamic perspective, hydrogen exhibits a significantly more negative standard Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) than copper oxide making it a suitable reductant and the exothermic thermal effect from reaction between hydrogen and Cu2O/CuO may be used to control process parameters. These characteristics renders hydrogen an ideal gas for reducing copper oxides and copper-containing slags/e-wastes. This review article assesses previous research on utilising hydrogen for producing and refining copper from primary and secondary feed materials.

Jun 19, 2024

By P Hanna

Following the Busang fiasco, more detailed guidelines were appended to the latest revision of the JORC Code released in September 1999 (JORC, 1999). Although the definitions and terminology essentially remained unchanged, the additional information in the guidelines has highlighted a number of issues for consideration by geologists undertaking computer-based resource estimations. The three main issues are:Data Integrity û details such as drilling and logging techniques, sampling procedures, assay tests, site visits, data recording and aggregation methods need to be considered. Geological Interpretation û is the Competent Person applying the appropriate software interpretation to the deposit in accordance with the regional setting. Are the correct computer-based tools being applied and are they producing the desired result (without compromise) to the satisfaction of the Competent Person? Modelling Technique û the importance of the relevant experience of the Competent Person not only in regard to the geology, but also with respect to the modelling algorithms and resource calculation methods of the computer software system involved. At the end of the day, it is essential that the Competent Person undertake a reality check on the resource estimation itself. They should also check that the borehole spacing is in accordance with the level of continuity for each critical parameter (such as structure, grade, impurities, etc) for which the resources are categorised.

Jan 1, 2000

By F M. Senda

This paper highlights strategies used at the Barrick operated Kibali Gold Mine (KGM) to improve the drilling accuracy and blasting effectiveness for longhole open stoping. The mine currently uses Solo DL421 for the required stope drilling and has experienced an average deviation of 10 per cent. Strategies are raised to eliminate or at least mitigate the adverse effects of blasthole deviation and the impact of blasting induced effect at the stope faces including the stope crown. The integration of deviation trends in the design would allow the actual blastholes to be established within their required positions to then facilitate a proper energy distribution with the eventual production blasting. The implementation of stope undercutting reduces the hole length from 35 m to 30 m which in return decreases blasthole deviation by 3 per cent. Another strategy adopted to improve the drilling accuracy is to slow down the penetration rate with the use of several operating approaches, including 135 MPa percussion pressure, 65 rev/sec rotation speed and 17 MPa feed pressure. To this penetration rate, a constant k factor is applied to increase the rate when the bedding inclination is less than 45° from the horizontal or when the hole length is under 10 m. This reduces deviation by a further 4 per cent. Where the rock mass is highly jointed it is advised to use the average penetration rate over the entire length of the hole. Furthermore, the paper shows the effect of deviation on the blasting results through a prediction of fragmentation blasting model optimised with reduced deviation and highlights the effect of presplit mining and timing delay on the blasting effectiveness. Although the size pattern increases with deviation, a strategy pertaining to timing delay with blasting would be to align to the work of Grant (1990) where the optimum hole to hole delay is found to be between 7–10 ms/m of spacing, while the optimum delay between adjacent ring varied between 110–160 ms. Stabilisation of crowns and wings will perform with the implementation of presplit blasting.

Mar 29, 2023

By J Evans-Wheeler

"The mandate of the 2005 VALMIN Code to provide ‘(all) reliable, thorough, understandable material information required by investors and their advisers when making investment decisions’ requires that due diligence for tenure be full and thorough. Yet a published due diligence would often appear to be simply a list of tenures allegedly held without any commitment as to the standing of the tenure as safe and secure or otherwise.The value of due diligence for tenure, as mandated in the 2012 JORC Code and the 2005 VALMIN Code, must focus on compliance rather than simply on ‘vital statistics’. Enforcement in every jurisdiction in Australia focuses on penalties (some more harsh than others) for non-compliance, which, in turn and most importantly, reflects directly on security of tenure. Some 22 Acts (on average) impinge on security of tenure and fundamentally underpin the security of any mineral asset.This paper will outline regulatory processes to demonstrate how tenure compliance is achieved and argue that the rigorous application of good practices in tenure evaluation will lead to more of this information being made available on a regular basis.The paper will then focus on further practical examples of tenure compliance failures, the application of these to the requirements of the JORC and VALMIN Codes and due diligence that failed to fulfil the mandate. Examples will be given that alerted other professionals using the JORC Code to complex geological and mining situations of which they were unaware in their valuations.Finally, the author will make a personal plea for tenure to be considered at the commencement of any reporting process.CITATION:Evans-Wheeler, J, 2016. The VALMIN code and tenure compliance – not just a list, in Proceedings Project Evaluation 2016, pp 112–121 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne)."

Mar 8, 2016

I WISH to express to the members of the Institute my sincere appreciation of the distinction which they have conferred upon me by again making me their president. It also gives me great pleasure to once more welcome the Institute to Mount Lyell.Since your last visit certain improvements in plant have been made, which I trust you will have found interesting, and which show that, though located in a remote corner of the world, we are abreast of the times.The opportunities which a recent lengthy trip to America has given me to observe the degree of interest which our local smelting practice continues to arouse in metallurgical circles make it seem appropriate that I should take advantage of your visit to lay before you some detailed information on the more practical features of pyrite smelting, particularly as carried out at Mount Lyell. There are only a few places in the world where the method is now being practised in approximate purity-only about half...

Jan 1, 1915

By L Muñoz, L Steffen, W Vilas Boas, G Gontijo, R Macedo, C Braga, d D Machado, G Stevenson

Mines operating close to communities face growing challenges, especially with their drilling and blasting activities. Proper management of environmental and community impacts is critical to provide sustainability to the mining business in the long-term, by enabling the licensee to operate. This paper will present new technology solutions to minimise the impacts to communities and the environment from blasting operations. A case study of the wireless initiation projects conducted at Kinross Morro do Ouro Mine (located in Paracatu, Minas Gerais – Brazil), will be presented. Focused on overcoming the complex challenges in the mine, Orica and Kinross searched for initiatives to optimise the drilling and blasting operations. The team evaluated the WebGen™ wireless initiation system for controlling environmental impacts as well as operational flexibility and productivity. Since January 2023, three planned wireless blasts to demonstrate the technology and applications were executed. In the tests, the vibration level was able to be maintained lower than the limit of 3.0 mm/s while dust and flyrock impacts were well controlled. The main benefits of using this technology for the Morro do Ouro Mine are: reducing the number of blasts while increasing the blasted mass per month; control of projection of fragments using additional cover; dust control by watering the bench easily; lightning initiation risk reduction due to the absence of wires or tubes on the surface; flexibility in changing the blast day to better control the noise and dust; flexibility in mine planning mining (potential application in the future). The use of the WebGen™ wireless initiation system, enables improved productivity while enhancing safety and reducing impacts to communities. Implementation of this technology has enabled Kinross Morro do Ouro Mine to build trust with its neighbours, maintain the license to operate, and helping to mobilise resources in a sustainable way. This has allowed Kinross to position Morro do Ouro Mine as a world reference operation, especially in relation to innovation, safety, and social responsibility.

Sep 1, 2024

By D A. Bowman, S Schafrik

With the goal of reducing injuries and fatalities related to haul truck accidents, this research investigates technologies and intervention strategies for improving worker training using a virtual environment (VE). Funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), this research specifically focuses on training workers in preshift inspections of haul trucks to avoid preventable defects from causing worker injuries and expensive equipment damage. Improved training in these inspections is expected to increase uptime. The VE developed to train workers for preshift inspections consists of three phases: the virtual tour, the virtual inspection and the shift simulation. The virtual tour introduces information necessary to conduct a preshift inspection by guiding the worker around a haul truck, identifying parts to be inspected and explaining defects to look for. The virtual inspection assesses retention as the worker navigates around a haul truck and identifies defects. During the shift simulation, the worker is shown a simulation of the work shift, which animates severe consequences of any overlooked defects to emphasise the importance of preshift inspections. To provide multiple training platforms, desktop and CAVEÖ versions of the training VE were created. Flux Studio was used to model the environment and to produce Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML) files for the desktop version. DIVERSE, an application programming interface, was then used to implement a more realistic version of the VE in a CAVEÖ, a room-sized visualisation system. Initial feedback from mining colleagues indicates that the training VE may replace normal classroom training for preshift inspections in the future. As opposed to PowerPoint presentations and instructional videos, the training VE provides better spatial understanding of the location of parts and incorporates interactive features to actively engage drivers in the learning process, which may result in better retention. Initial feedback also indicates that minor improvements can be made to the virtual tour and virtual inspection phases.

Jan 1, 2008

By E C. Holloway

"The financial valuation of mining assets has a number of fundamental differences to the valuation of many other asset groupings. One such difference is that typically, the greater proportion of both the cost and revenue sides of the cash flow are inherently governed by systemic market forces.As a result, the range of outcomes for the valuation of each mining asset is more unpredictable, with higher levels of risk and uncertainty. In contrast, the management function of many other non-mining businesses or industry groups can control at least a portion of the cash flow by maintaining the margin or controlling the sales price. The management teams of mining businesses and operations typically have limited options, and are thus price-takers for both costs and revenues. As mining is an inherently cyclical industry, large, long-life operations can exist through several price cycles, making valuation both subjective and challenging.The outcomes of both static- and stochastic-based valuations, as well as the internal probabilities of the associated cash flow statements, are significantly impacted when the correlations between the appropriate parameters are quantified, modelled and incorporated into the valuation framework. The appropriate parameters for correlation modelling primarily include those that are governed by systemic market forces. Applying this process results in a different risk profile for the asset by allowing the risks resulting from systemic market movements to be more accurately quantified and then objectively minimised. This process also reduces the level of residual uncertainty in the valuation outcome.This paper presents a valuation methodology to pragmatically incorporate this level of valuation sophistication and statistically quantify the associated increase in the level of confidence of the valuation outcomes reported.CITATION:Holloway, E C, 2016. Correlated valuation methodology, in Proceedings Project Evaluation 2016, pp 181–200 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne)."

Mar 8, 2016

By D Sert, A Jayasekara, P Gardin, B J Monaghan, S J. Chew, P Zulli, D Pinson, X F. Dong, R Ferreira

In an ironmaking blast furnace (BF), molten slag and hot metal form in the softening-melting (cohesive) zone and then trickle through the coke packed bed before being discharged from the taphole. During their downward flow, there are significant interactions occurring between liquids and other phases, such as gas and packing particles. Overall, the formation, dripping and discharging of these liquid phases, particularly molten slag, have a significant impact on BF operations in terms of furnace permeability, fuel consumption, process stability, product quality and ultimately, productivity. Hence, understanding the liquid flow behaviour in the BF lower zone is critical for designing optimal operations. In the current investigation, the flow behaviour of slag droplets was investigated at a mesoscopic level using a combined numerical and physical modelling approach. The interaction between slag and carbonaceous materials was studied using sessile drop wetting experiments, slag flow through a funnel and a high temperature packed bed and the Volume of Fluid (VOF) modelling technique. Molten slag flow and counter-current gas-slag flow in the packed bed was investigated in terms of superficial gas velocity, slag properties and packing structure. The gas-slag flow behaviour at a mesoscopic level was numerically visualised, with gas velocity gradually increased up to the flooding point. The strong interaction between gas and slag was uniquely identified, which can cause localised slag flooding as well as gas channelling. Detailed information concerning the effect on slag holdup distribution, residence time and flow patterns of wettability, slag properties and bed structure were obtained. The current investigation highlights the significant role of research at a mesoscopic level in understanding macroscopic slag flow behaviour. Gas channelling, which is a critical phenomenon in a packed bed with counter-current gas-slag flow, is predicted. It can be speculated that significant gas channelling in the BF can inevitably occur prior to operational limits being reached. In the BF process, the formation of permanent gas channelling and large slag rivulets should be avoided to maintain appropriate contact between phases and hence, furnace permeability.

Jun 19, 2024

By A S. Derrington

In some parts of Australia, mine air cooling may not be needed until a depth of 1300 m below surface is reached. In other locations, it may be essential at a depth of only 300 m below surface. The reasons for these differences are multifaceted. This paper discusses the main factors and describes a simple method to assess whether or not mine air cooling will be required. The method uses a graphical relationship that considers depth below surface, geothermal gradient, surface climatic conditions and directness of the mine intake routes. This relationship has been developed, tested and refined over a period of more than ten years using data collected from most of Australia’s deeper metalliferous mines. The method provides a ‘first-pass’ indication of whether more detailed cooling studies may be needed. Perhaps more importantly, the method’s underpinning by benchmarking against other mines improves confidence in the assessment results. Like any empirical method, the context must be understood and this aspect is also discussedCITATION:Derrington, A S, 2014. Will your mine require cooling?, in Proceedings 12th AusIMM Underground Operators’ Conference 2014 , pp 181–186 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Mar 24, 2014

By R P. Varden

This paper looks at the design of the Bentayga raisebore with subsequent back analysis using a LiDAR survey. A search for LiDAR raisebore assessment publications shows little work has been done on this subject. The paper examines the empirical design and RS2 modelling assessment with the bored condition. The high resolution of the LiDAR enabled mapping of weak structures that were located on the geotechnical investigation hole the orientations of which could not be determined. In addition, the scan showed were water ingress was occurring, potential stress overbreak and structural controls on stability. The LiDAR results were able to confirm no additional support work such as a shotcrete liner is necessary. The LiDAR results have been analysed in one metre increments as volume of overbreak against the empirical stability criteria (McCracken & Stacey 1989). The future use of LiDAR mapping over a range of rock mass conditions will provide quantification of the established empirical assessment improving its reliability. It is also a useful and accurate tool to monitor long term stability of a raisebore due to stress change or ore pass due to wear.

Mar 15, 2021

By J Tibbett, A Colebourn, B Hebblewhite, F Suorineni

The concept of Big Data refers to data sets that are so large, variable and/or complex that traditional data processing applications struggle to integrate the data for effective investigation, analysis and value generation. With advances in sensor technology and smarter equipment, the mining industry is experiencing Big Data, and in a different way to how the intelligence and marketing communities experience Big Data. Future mining will bring larger, more complicated and diverse data sets increasing the strain on traditional data integration and investigation techniques. Block caving is an important mining method for the extraction of massive, low-grade ore deposits due to its low operating cost and high production potential, given the right orebody geometry and ground conditions. This paper focuses on block caving due to its increasing popularity and importance in the future economic extraction of multiple commodities. The block cave mining system (BCMS) is a complex interrelation of factors, and due to the reliance on natural processes within the system, it is one of the least understood mining methods. Obtaining information on the factors within the BCMS generates large, complex data sets on various time scales. Each sensor network within the BCMS combines spatial and temporal information with tens to hundreds of recorded parameters. Data sets are quickly moving from multidimensional to n-dimensional. Optimisation of the BCMS is only possible through a holistic analysis approach, thus involving the integration of multiple, diverse, n-dimensional data sets (Big Data). This paper presents a current example BCMS Big Data situation involving 12 sources of information with differences in volume, data format and frequency of data generation. This suitability of virtual reality scientific visualisation (VRSV) as a solution to BCMS Big Data interpretation difficulties is then discussed. These 12 data sets can be effectively integrated using VRSV for intuitive and accelerated investigation of the BCMS. Potential future Big Data within the BCMS is presented involving 20 sources of information resulting from our increased need for monitoring and advancements in technology. Current methods of defining queries may not be suitable within these future complex, multidimensional data sets, and the potential of artificial intelligence algorithms within this system is discussed. These advancements in technology and machine learning lead to the requirement of live data acquisition and analysis. VRSV is identified as a suitable technology to satisfy the needs of real-time insight into the performance of these future caves for optimised management and reduced risk.CITATION:Tibbett, J, Suorineni, F, Hebblewhite, B and Colebourn, A, 2015. Virtual reality scientific visualisation – a solution for big data analysis of the block cave mining system, in Proceedings Third International Future Mining Conference, pp 109–116 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Nov 4, 2015

By Gillies A. D S

Rail, port and shipping charges represent 30 to 50 per cent of landed costs for Australian coal mines selling to Asia. This proportion is higher for sales to Europe, yet it is in Europe where Australian producers are aiming for increased market share. The landed cost of coal to the international customer is the key parameter which determines market competitiveness. The objective of this study is to examine Australian export coal competitiveness in terms of transport distance. The approach used examines world coking coal and steaming coal production and the transport distances between major exporting regions and importing countries. Reference is made to the importance of land transport costs and a comparative approach for emphasising the relative magnitude of this factor is developed. Models developed are examined in terms of Australia's exports and a conclusion is reached that a reduction in rail freight costs would be an effective measure for improving the competitiveness of Australia's coal industry.

Jan 1, 1994

By D Flint, K Vague

The Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA) (WHS Act; DMIRS, 2020) and associated Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2022 (WA) (WHS Regulations; DMIRS, 2022), supporting guidance materials and other laws, such as the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) (SD Act), have imposed new duties on every person or business conducting an undertaking (PCBU) in Western Australia, including those operating in the mining industry. These laws and associated guidance materials combine to require owners, operators and contractors to discharge positive duties and better report and manage psychosocial hazards in the workplace. For mine operators, there is a positive duty to not only identify and eliminate hazards relating to psychological harm, sexual harassment and gendered violence at work, but to also report incidents to the safety regulator that could result in serious harm, even while internal and police investigations are ongoing. Traditional mines safety teams are navigating the evolving frontier of psychological and gendered safety as the duties relating to psychosocial safety and sexual harassment at work continue to expand. This paper will review the legal obligations on PCBUs to conduct internal investigations into critical psychosocial incidents and gendered violence on mines, whilst balancing the demands and sensitivities of investigations by the safety regulator and police. There are emerging approaches to safety investigations that can aid PCBUs in managing their investigations of psychosocial incidents and gendered violence, including trauma-informed investigation techniques, collaboration with psychological experts and the use of limited legal privilege. Well managed and sensitive investigations can foster trust amongst workers, result in improved incident reporting by workers and lead to enhanced safety outcomes for the resources industry whilst preserving the legal positions of involved PCBUs. Specifically traversing the new duty to consult, cooperate and coordinate, this practical session will arm mine managers, safety professionals and human resources professionals, from mine operators and mining contractors alike, with tools and processes to bring to safety investigations, particularly on residential mine sites.

Apr 16, 2024

By R N. Humphries

The aim of this paper is to question the need to develop bespoke monitoring and assessment methodologies and criteria, thereby ‘reinventing the wheel’, when designing and assessing the success of important natural habitat and ecosystem restoration schemes at mine sites in the UK and Australia. It draws attention to the existence and applicability of the Phase I Habitat, National Vegetation Classification (NVC) and Condition Monitoring methods in the UK and similar approaches used in Australia. These are long accepted established methodologies and have published accounts for describing, assessing and managing natural vegetation communities, habitats and ecosystems. They are often used at the environmental impact stage, but seemingly rarely, if at all, in restoration design and management at mine closure. Their application to mine restoration and closure is illustrated and discussed by reference to a surface coalmine in South Wales, UK.It is concluded that the application of a combination of the Phase I Habitat, NVC and Condition Monitoring methods is highly relevant to the expectations of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and its implementation in the UK, and probably in Australia too. The methodology and criteria described could be incorporated into the guidance and specified in the mining permits so that there is clarity as to the expectations and requirements for monitoring and assessment for bond release. Their use could be of wider application where there is a requirement to assess the success of restored CBD assets and ecosystems.CITATION:Humphries, R N, 2014. Why reinvent the wheel when there are established methodologies to aid the design and assessment of restored natural ecosystems on mined land?, in Proceedings Life-of-Mine 2014 , pp 675–692 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).

Jul 16, 2014

By i, A Shirbazo, S Saydam, S Ata, H L. Ram, B Li

The integration of internet technology into industrial sectors has significantly accelerated the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, transforming communication, data aggregation, and information distribution. The mining industry has embraced this evolution by deploying IoT devices and advanced technologies like autonomous robots and sensors to enhance operational safety. These sensors enable real-time data transmission and continuous monitoring of key parameters, providing decision-makers with timely insights. However, the interconnected nature of these devices has introduced complexities, resulting in inconsistencies across operations. Addressing these challenges, this research explores the application of modern digital principles to the mining industry through the Reference Architecture Model Industry 4.0 (RAMI 4.0). RAMI 4.0 offers a robust framework that integrates digital and physical systems, promoting data transparency, interoperability, and decentralised decision-making. This study aims to briefly introduced framework designed for the unique challenges of mining operations, leveraging the latest digital technologies. The lack of standardisation in the mining sector highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle issues such as interoperability, scalability, security, safety, and repeatability. Establishing standard procedures can ensure smooth interaction between connected devices, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency in the growing IoT ecosystem within the mining industry. Introducing a well-defined reference architecture like RAMI 4.0 can streamline management processes and improve operational efficiency in mining. By adopting this framework, the mining industry can effectively navigate the challenges of digital transformation, leading to a more connected and resilient future. The study concludes that RAMI 4.0, with its structured approach, can significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of mineral processing operations, fostering sustainable growth in a digitally driven industrial landscape.

Sep 1, 2024