Geological Information System Research Articles

FEATURES OF THE RELATIONSHIP OF GERMANIUM CONTENT WITH THE CONCENTRATIONS OF TOXIC ELEMENTS AND THEIR DISTRIBUTION IN THE COAL SEAM С5 OF THE BLAGODATNA MINE

Problem Statement and Purpose. The purpose of this publication is to establish the character and level of the statistical relationship between the concentrations of germanium and toxic elements in coal seam c5 of the “Blagodatna” mine and the main features of their distribution for the assessment of possible environmental risks during the selective processing of coal enriched with this element. Coal is the main source of germanium. The study of the content of this element in coal seams acquires considerable importance due to its potential for industrial extraction and application as a valuable accompanying resource. Forecasts by the US Geological Survey point to an increase in global demand for germanium, with production expected to grow nearly 1.5 times by 2030. Data & Methods. The factual basis of the work was the results of data analyzes of 58 analyzes of the elements Ge, Be, F, Hg and As, conducted after 1981 in accredited state laboratories. In some cases, the data was supplemented with the results obtained by the furrow method of sampling from the core and mine workings, which was carried out from 1981 to 2018. At the beginning of the study, primary geochemical data were processed using STATISTICA 13.3 and IBM SPSS Statistics 22 to calculate basic statistical characteristics. Construction of frequency histograms for germanium content and reservoir thickness was also performed, as well as determination of their distribution characteristics. To achieve the research objectives, correlation and regression analyzes were performed using methods available in Micromine, one of the leading professional mining and geological information systems for 3D modeling, statistical data processing and mining planning (license MM5123). Results. The character and level of the statistical relationship between the content of germanium and “toxic elements” in coal seam c5 of the “Blagodatna” mine and the main features of their distribution were established for the assessment of possible environmental risks during the selective processing of coal enriched with this element. It has been proven that the correlation between germanium and all “toxic” elements is inverse and very weak. The existence of genetically different forms of germanium and arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium was revealed. A general feature of the distribution of Ge, As, F, Hg, and Be in the coal seam is noncompliance with normal and lognormal laws and polymodality of the distributions with a shift of the density cores to the left. The diverse probable form of finding the considered impurity elements in general in coal allows to treat the regularities established with the help of regression and correlation analysis only as a kind of trend of dependencies between them.

Цифровые горные технологии – импортозамещение и технологическая независимость

Formation of the Russian mining software market was lagging behind the global market due to the collapse of the USSR and changing the economy's development vector from technological to raw materials. Such reorientation has led to a significant reduction in financing the development of Russian mining software, which during many years was significantly promoted by the perception of a considerable number of specialists that the domestic developers were not able to reach the world level for many years. The result of these processes, which have been developing for the last 30 years, is the current state of the Russian mining software market, which is dominated by foreign products. The state of the market is perfectly reflected by mining and geological information systems, which act as backbone systems in the formation of digital technology for engineering support of mining operations. The share of imported mining and geological information systems in the Russian market is 90-95%, which in conditions of the sanctions leads to slowing down the digital transformation of the mining industry. It is possible to change this situation by uniting the efforts of domestic software developers based on creating a network structure in the form of a digital platform that provides third-party software developers a possibility to integrate their tools through a library of API-functions into a single digital environment that realizes a basic set of system and working tools. It is proposed to create this digital platform on the basis of the Russian MINEFRAME mining and geological information system, which has extensive functionality based on 3D modeling and multi-user work within a local area network.

Развитие горно-геологической информационной системы в современных реалиях российской горнодобывающей отрасли

The article presents an approach to the development of the MINEFRAME mining and geological information system. The current situation in the mining industry, the foreign policy challenges require to use digital technologies as a driver to improve labor productivity and industrial safety. One of the most important classes of software used at mining enterprises are mining and geological information systems, i.e. the information systems that offer complex automation in solving geological, mine surveying and technological tasks when working with the vector, wireframe and block models of mining system facilities. The mining and geological information systems make it possible to have reliable knowledge of the deposit at each stage of exploration, design and operation of the mine through the use of 3D geological and geomechanical models, determination of distribution patterns for useful and harmful components of minerals for comprehensive analysis of scenarios of the sequence of field development, selection of the most efficient mining technologies and equipment, assessment of the risk level for design solutions and their economic efficiency. This approach fully corresponds to the trends of digital transformation declared by the government of the Russian Federation and represents a new stage of automation and informatization of economic activities and transition to digital technologies.

Краткосрочное планирование открытых горных работ в горно-геологической информационной системе MINEFRAME

One of the levels in planning of surface mining operations is short-term planning during the mining phase of the deposit reserves. Algorithms and software tools for the module of automated planning of surface mining operations have been developed as part of the task to enhance the efficiency of short-term planning in the MINEFRAME mining and geological information system. This module allows to make a comparative analysis of the selected structure of complex mechanization, as well as to optimize the operation of the in-pit transport based on simulation modeling of technological processes in surface mining. The module for planning of surface mining operations increases efficiency, timeliness and accuracy of planning based on input data and limitations that characterize the operation of the enterprise. Selection of the optimal structure for complex mechanization is made based on the analysis of the received reporting data of each planning scenario according to the performance indicators of the machinery and equipment. This approach fully corresponds to the trends of digital transformation declared by the government of the Russian Federation and represents a new stage of automation and informatization of economic activities and transition to digital technologies.

Инструмент оптимизации выемочных единиц на открытых горных работах для блочных моделей месторождений

The MINEFRAME mining and geological information system features an algorithm and a software module to create bench-wise mining units for surface mining operations, which optimizes losses and dilution with due account for the spatial variability of the ore and gangue rock composition. The software module is based on both wireframe and pure block models, and takes into account a given development direction. The algorithm defines the mineable reserves of the deposit as a set of mining unit models. The module determines the expected levels of rational loss and dilution for each mining units of the bench, for each ore body, for the bench and for the open pit in general. The mining units also become the reference points for the design of blasting operations and the basis for the development of special measures to modify the parameters of the mining system locally. The obtained mineable reserves can be used in defining the pit boundaries and planning mining operations, and the contours of mining units will guide the design of the blast blocks. The algorithm can also be used to clarify the pit boundaries in the footwall of a sloping deposit and for economic comparison of the development options.

Germanium connection with ash content and toxic elementsin coal on the example of c5 seamof the Blagodatna mine field

Purpose. To establish the nature and level of the statistical relationship between the concentrations of germanium and "toxic elements" in coal seam c5 of the "Blagodatna" mine and the main features of their distribution to assess possible environmental risks during the selective processing of coal enriched with this element. Methodology. The factual basis of the work was the results of 58 determinations of the spectral emission analysis of germanium, beryllium, fluorine, mercury and arsenic. To calculate basic statistical characteristics, all geochemical data were processed using STATISTICA 13.3 and IBM SPSS Statistics 22 programs.Construction of frequency histograms of germanium concentrations and coal seam thickness was performed, as well as determination of their distribution characteristics. Correlation and regression analyzes were performed using methods available in Micromine, one of the leading professional mining and geological information systems for 3D modeling, statistical data processing and mine planning. Findigs. The existence of an inverse and very weak correlation between the concentrations of germanium and the content of beryllium, fluorine, mercury and arsenic in coal seam c5 of the "Blagodatna" mine was established, which makes it possible to predict the minimal nature of possible environmental risks during the selective processing of germanium-enriched coal. All studied elements accumulated in several forms, which differed significantly in their genesis.Each of the elements that were studied in seam c5 of the "Blagodatna" mine accumulated in several forms, which differed significantly in their genesis. At the same time, the forms of their occurrence, which are responsible for the minimum contents, were jointly accumulated at the syngenetic stage. Scientific novelty. The existence of genetically different forms of germanium, arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium in the coal seam was revealed. For all considered elements, the polymodality of the distributions was established with the same displacement of the distribution density to the left. It has been proven that the correlation between Ge and all "toxic" elements is inverse and very weak. Practical significance. A substantiated method of the most correct assessment of the central tendency of the distribution of a sample population of concentrations of germanium, arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium in coal seam c5 of the "Blagodatna" mine.The presence of a very weak negative correlation between Ge content and toxic elements makes it possible to predict the minimal nature of possible environmental risks during the selective processing of Ge-enriched coal.

A geological and geotechnical information system (GEO-GIS) for urban planning and its application to the Acıpayam Basin (Denizli, Turkey) with some observations from a M w 5.5 earthquake on 20 March 2019

There are many site investigation projects used for the urban planning of a city. They are archived in hard copy or scanned in image files stored on computers. In this study, geological, geotechnical and geophysical data obtained from different site investigation projects in the Acıpayam district were evaluated in the same coordinate system using a geological and geotechnical information system (GEO-GIS) computer program. The Acıpayam GEO-GIS database includes field tests in 82 boreholes, 85 observation pits, laboratory test results of soil samples, 99 seismic refraction measurements and 70 microtremor measurements. Required information from the database can be displayed at its spatial coordinates on a base map and new maps can also be drawn using the GEO-GIS database system. Resultant maps drawn using the Acıpayam GEO-GIS database show that in the northern and eastern parts of the Acıpayam district, where the Oğuz, Kırca, Yassıhöyük, Apa, Ovayurt, Karahüyük, Ucarı and Gedikli villages are located, weak soil layers exist. This means that some damage may be caused to adobe and masonry buildings in the villages during shaking associated with strong earthquakes, as observed after the 5.5 (M w ) earthquake that occurred on 20 March 2019. The Acıpayam GEO-GIS database system is a useful tool for engineers and planners that can assist in drawing GIS-produced maps for geotechnical evaluations of the basin. These maps can be used in decision-making projects for urban planning. Thematic collection: This article is part of the Leading to Innovative Engineering Geology Practices collection available at: https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/leading-to-innovative-engineering-geology-practices

Application of “3S” Technology in Land Resource Management

Land resource management is one of the most important ways to deal with the relationship between land resource and human being to improve land use efficiency and gain more benefits. “3S” technology refers to remote sensing (RS), global positioning system (GPS) and geological information system (GIS). “3S” technology is widely used in different fields generally as an excellent method and it has advantages to exploit in land resource management. Now as the population grows, the conflict between land resource and mankind extrudes with global resource shortage. The effort using “3S” cannot be ignored. This article explains the definition and ability of “3S” technology and analyze the application of “3S” in the Investigation of land resource, land environment dynamic monitoring, land evaluation, land consolidation and land planning. The author concludes the utilization of “3S” technology in land resource management and looks forward its development in the future from different perspectives. Informatization, intelligent and integration are three directions “3S” will make progress. This article takes some examples to illustrate how to help “3S” technology step forward in the future. Through these ways, the optimized “3S” technology has ability to overcome disadvantages and build up new use of the way. So the efficiency of land resource management will be improved obviously to achieve the sustainable use goal of land resource.

Development and Application of a Simplified Geomechanical Field Model Based on the RQD Array Disturbance Index

Data are provided on the development of a simplified geomechanical model of the Akbastau deposit, built on the basis of the destruction index of the RQD array, and provides examples of its application. Modern digital technologies of mining and geological information systems allow geologists to create three-dimensional geological models of deposits for calculating reserves, planners to automate the design process, and miners serve for operational planning and maintenance of mining operations. The logical continuation of this process of digitalization of mining production was the experience of creating a geomechanical model of the mine, which allows to scientifically substantiate the parameters of field development and make decisions on the management of the state of the massif. It includes the following information shells: geological, structural, hydrogeological, mechanical properties of the array. Making such a model is a very complex, time-consuming and expensive process.

On security of GIS systems with N-tier architecture and family of graph based ciphers

Discovery of q-regular tree description in terms of an infinite system of quadratic equations over finite field Fq had an impact on Computer Science, theory of graph based cryptographic algorithms in particular. It stimulates the development of new graph based stream ciphers. It turns out that such encryption instruments can be efficiently used in GIS protection systems which use N-Tier Architecture. We observe known encryption algorithms based on the approximations of regular tree, their modifications defined over arithmetical rings and implementations of these ciphers. Additionally new more secure graph based ciphers suitable for GIS protection will be presented.Algorithms are constructed using vertices of bipartite regular graphs D(n,K) defined by a finite commutative ring K with a unit and a non-trivial multiplicative group K*. The partition of such graphs are n-dimensional affine spaces over the ring K. A walk of even length determines the transformation of the transition from the initial to the last vertex from one of the partitions of the graph. Therefore, the affine space Kn can be considered as a space of plaintexts, and walking on the graph is a password that defines the encryption transformation.With certain restrictions on the password the effect when different passwords with K*)2s, s <[(n+5)/2]/2 correspond to different ciphertexts of the selected plaintext with Kn can be achieved.In 2005, such an algorithm in the case of the finite field F127 was implemented for the GIS protection. Since then, the properties of encryption algorithms using D(n, K) graphs (execution speed, mixing properties, degree and density of the polynomial encryption transform) have been thoroughly investigated.The complexity of linearization attacks was evaluated and modifications of these algorithms with the resistance to linearization attacks were found. It turned out that together with D(n, K) graphs, other algebraic graphs with similar properties, such as A(n, K) graphs, can be effectively used.The article considers several solutions to the problem of protecting the geological information system from possible cyberattacks using stream ciphers based on graphs. They have significant advantages compared to the implemented earlier systems.

Optimizing the contours of open pit mining with the use of mining and geological information systems and technologies

This article studies optimization of open pit mining using mining and geological information systems and technologies. The aim of the study is to develop an algorithm of optimizing the contour of an open pit using a mining and geological information system. The Lerch-Grossman algorithm has been applied using the Whittle program. Justification for changing the contour of an open pit based on the opening scheme, geometric characteristics and special technical and economic parameters of the blocks has been proposed. This proposal provides increasing the production efficiency and reducing capital and operating costs during the development of the deposit. The authors have come to the conclusion that the functionality of updated mining and geological information systems helps to take into account market conditions when designing the main parameters of an open pit and to make the right decision at the stage of preparing a deposit for development and while optimizing the existing open pit contour.

An Automated Mapping Method of 3D Geological Cross-Sections Using 2D Geological Cross-Sections and a DEM

With the three-dimensional (3D) geological information system development, 3D geological cross-sections (GCs) have become the primary data for geological work and scientific research. Throughout past geological surveys or research works, a lot of two-dimensional (2D) geological cross-section maps have been accumulated, which struggle to meet the scientific research and application needs of 3D visual expression, 3D geological analysis, and many other aspects. Therefore, this paper proposes an automatic generation method for 3D GCs by increasing the dimensions based on a digital elevation model (DEM) and 2D geological cross-section maps. By matching corresponding nodes, generating topographic feature lines, constructing an affine transformation matrix, and inferring the elevation value of each geometric node on the GC, the 3D transformation of the 2D GCs is realized. In this study, fourteen 2D GCs within Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, are transformed into 3D GCs using the proposed method. The transformed results and quantitative error show that: (1) the proposed method applies to both straight and bent GCs; (2) each transformed GC can fit seamlessly with the ground and maintain minimal geometric deformation, and the geometric shape is consistent with the original GC in non-mountains area. This paper corroborated the proposed method’s effectiveness by comparing it with the other two 3D transformation strategies. In addition, the transformed GCs can be subjected to 3D geological modeling and digital Earth presentation, achieving positive effects in both 3D application and representation.

Geological foundations for determination of anisotropic directions in geostatistical modeling on the example of Verkhnee orebody of the Mnogovershinnoe gold deposit

Background. When calculating reserves using geostatistical methods, variographic analysis can occasionally encounter difficulties in determining the direction of the search ellipsoid, particularly in deposits with a lognormal distribution of the useful component. The search ellipsoid defines the main directions of mineralization anisotropy, thus comprising a key element in the process of interpolating grades into a block model. The correct interpolation of grades provides a reliable estimate of reserves.Aim. To determine the influence of the orebody morphology on anisotropic directions.Materials and methods. Data from a report on the technical and economic substantiation of the resource and estimation parameters of the Mnogovershinnoe gold deposit for 1975 were used, along with a database comprising catalogues of borehole coordinates, mining outputs, inclinometry and exploratory test data. Three-dimensional computer modeling was performed in the Micromine min­ing and geological information system. Using the example of the Verkhnee orebody of the Mno­govershinnoe gold deposit, statistical and geostatistical studies were carried out to calculate the reserves. The as-calculated reserves were compared with those estimated by a polygonal method and approved by the State Commission for Mineral Reserves (GKZ) USSR in 1975.Results. The conducted comparison of the geological interpretation of the orebody under study, obtained by both wireframe modeling based on exploratory test data and the search ellipsoid constructed by variographic analysis, сonfirmed the influence of the orebody morphology on the axis directions of the minimal variability of mineralization. The orientation of the search ellipsoid was determined to be consistent with the geological interpretation of the orebody. Verification of the interpolated block model showed the estimate to be close to a reliable value. The comparison of the calculated reserves with those of 1975 showed their good convergence.

Creation of geomechanical block model of Severomuysky Tunnel area in Micromine Origin & Beyond

In 2016 Russian Railways made a decision to reconstruct the upper structure of the track and drainageand-transport adit in Severomuysky Tunnel in order to mitigate the impacts of adverse factors and to increase the tunnel capacity. As a rule, such work goes with the creation of a 3D model of subsoil in the area of reconstruction. The area of Severomuysky Tunnel features difficult geological and geotectonic conditions. The seismically active zones, subvertical tectonic delamination of granitoid rock mass in the Baikal Mega Dome, as well as the thermal and cold groundwater complicate operation and require special control activities to be undertaken. Creation of the geomechanical model is discussed, the modeling stages are described, the source data of the modeling are given, and the calculation procedure to find geomechanical determinants for the modeling is delineated. The modeling is performed in geological and mining information system Micromine Origin & Beyond. Visualization of distribution of quantitative data on rock mass quality and real-time updating of the model when new geomechanical observations arrive allow enhancing quality of project solutions, including designs of tunnel lining and new underground openings. With the block model at hand, it is possible to identify hazardous areas in rock mass and to predict rock mass damages in three and in two dimensions. The geological and mining information systems are usable both in solid mineral mining and in construction / reconstruction of various-purpose underground structures. At the comparatively low labor cost of modeling, specialists gain an offing to improve essentially the computational accuracy and to minimize the risks associated with construction and operation of objects in difficult geotechnical conditions.

ЗВ’ЯЗОК ГЕРМАНІЮ ІЗ ЗОЛЬНІСТЮ ТА «ТОКСИЧНИМИ» ЕЛЕМЕНТАМИ У ВУГІЛЛІ НА ПРИКЛАДІ ПЛАСТА с5 ПОЛЯ ШАХТИ БЛАГОДАТНА ЗАХІДНОГО ДОНБАСУ

Purpose. The character and level of the statistical relationship between the content of germanium and “toxic elements” in coal seam c5 of the “Blahodatna” mine and the main features of their distribution were established for the assessment of possible environmental risks during the selective processing of coal enriched with this element. It has been proven that the correlation between germanium and all “toxic” elements is inverse and very weak. The existence of genetically different forms of germanium and arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium was revealed. Methods. The research materials included analysis of 38 coal samples for germanium, beryllium, fluorine, mercury and arsenic, performed in accredited state laboratories after 1981. The content of germanium, beryllium and fluorine was determined by quantitative emission spectral analysis, mercury and arsenic – by atomic absorption analysis. The samples were taken during the work of production enterprises and research organizations with the participation of the authors, using the furrow method of sampling in mine workings and from the core of wells from 1981 to 2018. For primary processing of geochemical data, STATISTICA 13.3 and IBM SPSS Statistics 22 were used to calculate basic statistical characteristics, including mean, standard error of the mean, median, kurtosis, mode, standard deviation, variance, minimum and maximum values, coefficient of variation, and sample skewness . Frequency histograms were created for visual assessment of the studied parameters, as well as the characteristics of their distribution were determined. To achieve the objectives of the study, correlation and regression analyzes were carried out using the functions available in Micromine – the leading professional mining and geological information system for 3D modeling, statistical data processing and mining planning. Results. It was established that a general feature of the distribution of ash content, germanium, arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium in the c5 coal seam of the Blahodatna mine field is their non-compliance with normal and lognormal laws and the polymodality of the distributions with a shift of the density nuclei to the left, except for beryllium and germanium. Each of the studied elements in seam c5 of the “Blahodatna” mine accumulated in several forms, which differed significantly in their genesis. At the same time, the forms of finding, which are responsible for the minimum contents, were jointly accumulated at the initial, syngenetic stage. The presence of an inverse and very weak correlation between germanium concentrations and ash content, arsenic, fluorine, and mercury contents in the c5 coal seam of the Blahodatna mine was revealed. The only element considered that forms a very weak positive correlation with germanium is beryllium. Scientific novelty of the results. The presence of genetically different forms of germanium and arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium in coal seam c5 of the Blahodatna mine was revealed. The polymodality of the distributions was established for all the considered components, while the displacement of the density of their distribution to the left was proved, except for germanium and beryllium. It has been proven that the correlation between germanium and ash content and all “toxic” elements (except beryllium) is inverse and very weak. Practical significance of the results. Justification of the method of the most accurate assessment of the central tendency in the distribution of a sample population of concentrations of germanium and arsenic, fluorine, mercury and beryllium in coal seam c5 of the “Blahodatna” mine. The presence of a very weak correlation between the content of germanium and “toxic” elements makes it possible to predict the minimal nature of possible environmental risks during the selective processing of germanium-enriched coal.

Geochemical peculiarities of germanium, arsenic, mercury, beryllium, fluorine and total sulfur in the C8h coal seam of the Dniprovska mine field

In the article, the authors establish and analyze the relationship between the contents of germanium, toxic elements and the total sulfur content of the coal seam of the Dniprovska Mine field. In the process of the research, in order to achieve the purpose set in the work, correlation and regression analysis was carried out using methods that are implemented in one of the most popular professional mining and geological information systems for 3D modeling of deposits, statistical processing of mining and geological data and construction of actual mine workings and planning of mining operations – Micromine, and their analysis in geological concepts was performed. It is proved that the distribution of germanium, toxic elements and total sulfur content in the coal seam с8н of the Dniprovska Mine field differ from the Gauss-Laplace and lognormal distributions. It is established that analyzes of graphs of polynomial pair regression models of the relationship between the normalized concentrations of germanium and the contents of toxic elements make it possible to identify different areas of their concentrations, which differ significantly in their nature. It is substantiated that the minimum contents of arsenic, germanium and total sulfur in the coal seam с8н of the Dniprovska Mine were jointly accumulated at the syngenetic stage of its formation. A decrease in the concentrations of germanium with an increase in the content of fluorine, mercury, arsenic, and total sulfur is associated with epigenetic processes, which in this particular case lead to the outcrop of germanium. The synchronous increase in the contents of germanium and beryllium in the area of their low and abnormally low concentrations is due to the compatible accumulation of these elements at the syngenetic stage of formation of the coal seam, and their increase in the area of maximum contents is caused by the manifestation of the empirical regularity of the “Zilbermints law”. It was established that there is a very low correlation between the concentrations of germanium and toxic elements and total sulfur, therefore, the extraction of germanium from the coal seam will not be accompanied by their significant accumulation during technological processes. It is proven that for a more realistic assessment of the central tendency of the content of germanium, toxic elements and total sulfur, it is necessary to use the median values instead of the median values. The influence of syngenetic and epigenetic processes on the nature of the relationship between germanium concentrations, toxic elements and total sulfur content in the coal seam с8н of the Dniprovska Mine was revealed.

Применение цифровых технологий для инвестиционной оценки горнорудных проектов западной части Арк­тики

The authors consider the mining-geological and technical-economic conditions of promising ore deposits in the Western part of the Arctic of the Russian Federation and analyze the existing methods for evaluating investment projects. They have revealed that the methods do not take into account the intensive introduction of digital technologies, automation and robotization of machines and equipment into the mining industry. The authors substantiate the necessity of using digital technologies in the investment appraisal of mining projects. The study objective is the developing of an improved method for investment appraisal in the Western Arctic mining projects. The authors suggest a methodical approach based on parametric and scenario modeling, which allows minimizing the influence of uncertainty factors and increasing the efficiency of decision-making. Thus, for the practical implementation of the approach in the investment appraisal of mining projects, taking into account digital technologies, they propose an algorithm that includes six effective steps. A distinctive feature of the approach is the use of methods for modeling mining equipment objects. The mining and geological information system MINEFRAME, created at the Mining Institute of the KSC RAS, has the necessary functionality. An investment appraisal of 13 promising deposits as mining projects is completed. The authors select nine (9) deposits that best meet the criteria of economic feasibility. Types of ore minerals: titanium, rare earth elements, lithium, vanadium group the selected deposits and ranked according to investment evaluation indicators. The authors propose economically justified and effective scenarios for involving investment-attractive deposits in the economic turnover. Both the integration of mining projects into closely located mining enterprises and their autonomous development are envisaged.

Commercial operation of annual mine planning software modules: Outcomes

The purpose of the article is to summarize the commercial operation performance (2019–2021) of software modules designed for mine planning at Uralkali. The article discusses five out of twelve software modules used to create annual mining plans as a part of the corporate mining and geological information system of PJSC Uralkali. The key objectives solved include: delineation of planned operation areas on digital mining plans for each shearer; distribution of planned production volumes per types of activity, shearers, mining sites and per minerals (carnallite, sylvinite) per month; determination of qualitative and quantitative indicators of produced ore mass within the planned operation areas with regard to the type of activity (stone drivage, permanent roadway development, stoping); mapping of roadways and stoping boundaries on the digital plan per each extraction panel quarterly; determination of produced volumes of minerals and gangue; setting of loss and dilution standards for each extraction panel; compilation and redaction of tabular, graphic and text documentation on annual mine planning, etc. Accomplishment of the listed tasks involves the mining, geology, surveying and geomechanics personnel of mines and at Uralkali. In this regard, the created software products are meant to tackle a critical problem connected with the full and prompt provision of all annual mine planning experts with verified source information to ensure their interaction and proper determination of planned mining performance for a preset period of time.

The procedure of planning the face shovels layout using the technologies of the Mining and Geological Information Systems

Introduction. The article considers options for face shovels layout in an open pit based on the developed procedure of mining operations scheduling, which uses block modeling and considers the throughput of rock mass at the horizons, the length of the active extraction front, the quality of the mineral, the specified intensity of excavation, the accepted models of shovels and other attribute electronic data. The approach proposed in this procedure allows to consider many options for face shovels layout in an open pit and choose the best option in a short time in a semi-automatic mode. Research objective is to develop a method for automated layout of shovels along the working horizons of an open pit, based on the results of block modeling. Methods of research. Face shovels layout on the working horizons of an open pit is based on the calculations, computer modeling and technical and operating parameters of shovels, as well as the active extraction front assessment. The main step in solving the problem is to build ore body block models, simulate mining operations, and built an open pit model based on the periods of field development. Based on the results of block modeling, the optimal length of the excavating block on the working horizon for the selected face shovel model is determined. Research results. Based on the block model, shovels layout along the working horizons of the open pit is designed. Conclusions. The proposed procedure, in a short time in a semi-automatic mode, allows to solve the problem of lower horizons opening in deep pits, consider numerous options for face shovels layout in an open pit and choose the best option, minimizes production risks when developing complex deposits and carrying out comprehensive extraction of raw materials.

Цифровой карьер: использование горно-геологической информационной системы при планировании горных работ

Creation of mine development plans for mining operations in the ferrous and non-ferrous metals industry is a timeconsuming and creative process that requires high levels of specialist expertise, especially in manual planning, where it is quite difficult to assess the impact of decisions made hic et nunc on the future development of the company. Application of mining and geological systems in planning makes it possible to simulate and assess many different options in mine development within a short period time and with sufficiently high reliability. These systems allow planning specialists to make more informed and correct decisions without the fear that these decisions may lead to deterioration of open pits or mines. The article describes the course of project implementation to transform the business processes of mine planning using mining and geological information system by Dassault Systemes at the METALLOINVEST Group of Companies as exemplified by the Mikhailovsky GOK Lebedinsky GOK mines.