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increased drilling efficiency

Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2024-04-27
  • Date accepted
    2024-11-07
  • Date published
    2025-03-05

Comprehensive studies of the snow-firn layer in the area of the Russian Antarctic Vostok Station

Article preview

The article presents the findings from research conducted at Vostok Station during the 69th Russian Antarctic expedition. The primary goal of the research is to perform a thorough investigation of the snow-firn layer using both direct (drilling and core analysis) and indirect (georadiolocation and seismic exploration) methods. As part of the research, fundamental tasks related to the study of the structure and dynamics of the upper part of the ice sheet were addressed, as well as applied tasks aimed at justifying the depth of explosive charge placement for seismic work with the goal of conducting a detailed study of Lake Vostok and selecting the point for drilling access to the lake. Data on the microstructure and physical properties of the snow-firn layer were collected. The findings will allow for future improvements to the firn densification model, which is required to understand the evolution of ice grains during the early stages of metamorphism. The study's findings aided in the understanding of the structural features of the ice sheet's surface layer, allowing for more precise determination of the structural and physical characteristics of the snow-firn layer and ice, potentially leading to a better understanding of climatic and geological processes in Antarctica.

How to cite: Bolshunov A.V., Ignatev S.A., Gorelik G.D., Krikun N.S., Vasilev D.A., Rakitin I.V., Shadrin V.S. Comprehensive studies of the snow-firn layer in the area of the Russian Antarctic Vostok Station // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. p. EDN KBAZNU
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-04-10
  • Date accepted
    2024-12-27
  • Date published
    2024-04-25

Optimization of specific energy consumption for rock crushing by explosion at deposits with complex geological structure

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The selection of efficient drilling and blasting technology to achieve the required particle size distribution of blasted rock mass and reduce ore dilution is directly related to the accurate definition of rock mass properties. The zoning of the rock massif by its hardness, drillability and blastability does not consider the variability of the geological structure of the block for blasting, resulting in an overestimated specific consumption of explosives. The decision of this task is particularly urgent for enterprises developing deposits with a high degree of variability of geological structure, for example, at alluvial deposits. Explosives overconsumption causes non-optimal granulometric composition of the blasted rock mass for the given conditions and mining technology. It is required to define physical and mechanical properties of rocks at deposits with complex geological structure at each block prepared for blasting. The correlation between the physical and mechanical properties of these rocks and drilling parameters should be used for calculation. The relation determined by the developed method was verified in industrial conditions, and the granulometric composition of the blasted rock mass was measured by an indirect method based on excavator productivity. The results demonstrated an increase in excavation productivity, thus indicating the accuracy of given approach to the task of identifying the rocks of the blasted block.

How to cite: Vinogradov Y.I., Khokhlov S.V., Zigangirov R.R., Miftakhov A.A., Suvorov Y.I. Optimization of specific energy consumption for rock crushing by explosion at deposits with complex geological structure // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 266. p. 231-245. EDN RUUFNM
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-09-26
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2024-04-25

Technology of absorption elimination with cross-linking plugging material based on cement and cross-linked polymer

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The peculiarity of the geological structure of carbonate reservoirs is their complex permeability and porosity characteristics, reflecting the simultaneous presence of cavities variety (fractures, caverns, pores). Loss of circulation during penetration of fractured rock intervals significantly increases well construction time due to lack of efficient plugging isolation compositions. The main disadvantages of traditional compositions are high sensitivity to dilution in the process of their injection into the absorption zone, as well as insufficient structural strength to prevent the isolation composition from spreading during the induction period. For efficient isolation of catastrophic absorption zones in conditions of high opening of absorption channels a new cross-linking plugging isolation composition has been developed, which allows to exclude disadvantages of traditional isolation compositions. Application of the composition will allow to reduce the injection volume of the isolation composition and the time of isolation works due to its resistance to dilution and movement of formation water in the absorption interval.

How to cite: Predein A.А., Garshina О.V., Melekhin A.А. Technology of absorption elimination with cross-linking plugging material based on cement and cross-linked polymer // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 266. p. 295-304. EDN BPUQNV
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-09-05
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2024-04-25

Modeling the efficiency of seasonal cooling devices when changing the statistical distribution of weather conditions

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The climatic factor of warming, which is evidenced by a significant number of scientists and research teams in Russia and the world, has a significant impact on the cryogenic state of permafrost soil, the preservation of which is one of the most common principles of construction in the North. The influence of projected climatic changes in planning up to 2050 on the efficiency of seasonal cooling devices, the principle of operation of which is based on seasonal soil freezing, is considered. The conducted modeling has shown that in a situation of stable climate, the preservation of the cryogenic state of permafrost soil is realized without the use of additional measures. With warming with a trend of 0.1 °C per year, seasonal cooling devices do not ensure the preservation of the current level of the cryogenic state of the soil and additional measures are required to increase their efficiency in the summer. In the case of more extreme warming with a rate of 0.25 °C per year, the modeling results show that seasonal cooling devices do not significantly affect the rate of soil thawing and the solution to the problem should be its complete replacement with systems with year-round action.

How to cite: Ermilov O.M., Dzhalyabov A.A., Vasilev G.G., Leonovich I.A. Modeling the efficiency of seasonal cooling devices when changing the statistical distribution of weather conditions // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 266. p. 272-282. EDN UZQOVK
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-08-16
  • Date accepted
    2023-10-24
  • Date published
    2023-10-27

Results of complex experimental studies at Vostok station in Antarctica

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Scientific research in the area close to the Russian Antarctic station Vostok has been carried out since its founding on December 16, 1957. The relevance of work to study the region is steadily increasing, which is confirmed by the Strategy for the Development of Activities of the Russian Federation in the Antarctica until 2030. As part of the Strategy implementation, Saint Petersburg Mining University solves the comprehensive study issues of the Vostok station area, including the subglacial Lake Vostok, related to the development of modern technologies and technical means for drilling glaciers and underlying rocks, opening subglacial reservoirs, sampling water and bottom sediments, as well as carrying out comprehensive geological and geophysical research. For the successful implementation of the Strategy, at each stage of the work it is necessary to identify and develop interdisciplinary connections while complying with the requirements for minimizing the impact on the environment. During the season of the 68th Russian Antarctic Expedition, the staff of the Mining University, along with the current research works , began research of the dynamic interactions between the forces of the Earth, from the deepest depths to the surface glacier. Drilling and research programs have been completed. The drilling program was implemented jointly with colleagues from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute at the drilling complex of the 5G well. The research program included: shallow seismic studies, core drilling of snow-firn strata, study of the snow-firn strata petrostructural features, studies of cuttings collection filters effectiveness when drilling snow-firn strata and the process of ice destruction in a reciprocating rotational method, bench testing of an acoustic scanner. As a result of drilling in 5G well at the depth range of 3453.37-3534.43 m, an ice core more than 1 million years old was obtained.

How to cite: Bolshunov A.V., Vasilev D.A., Dmitriev A.N., Ignatev S.A., Kadochnikov V.G., Krikun N.S., Serbin D.V., Shadrin V.S. Results of complex experimental studies at Vostok station in Antarctica // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 263. p. 724-741. EDN WQNJET
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-27
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Analysis of the problems of high-quality drinking water extraction from underground water intakes on Vysotsky Island in the Vyborg district of the Leningrad region

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This article presents the results of drilling, experimental filtration work and laboratory studies aimed at assessing the resources and quality of groundwater in the licensed area of Vysotsky Island located in the Leningrad region, in the Gulf of Finland in accordance with the requirements of regulatory documents. Analysis of the results of hydrochemical studies and their comparison with data on water intakes in adjacent areas gives the right to conclude that it is possible to classify a hydrogeological unit as a different type of resource formation than those located in the surrounding areas. Groundwater in this area is confined to an unexplored deep fractured regional high-pressure zone. According to the received data, the explored water intake can be attributed to a unique groundwater deposit, which has an uncharacteristic composition of groundwater in the north of the Leningrad region, which may be due to the mixing of modern sediments and relict waters of the Baltic glacial lake. The stability of groundwater characteristics is confirmed by long-term monitoring.

How to cite: Nikishin V.V., Blinov P.A., Fedorov V.V., Nikishina E.K., Tokarev I.V. Analysis of the problems of high-quality drinking water extraction from underground water intakes on Vysotsky Island in the Vyborg district of the Leningrad region // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264. p. 937-948. EDN ZGVJSR
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-10-30
  • Date accepted
    2023-09-20
  • Date published
    2024-02-29

Combined method of phytoremediation and electrical treatment for cleaning contaminated areas of the oil complex

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The scale of land pollution with oil waste necessitates the use of economical and effective methods of recultivation. Phytoremediation is one of the simplest methods, but it has a number of limitations, so additional preparation of the territory is often required before it is carried out. Preliminary electrical preparation and subsequent seeding of special phytoremediants are of interest. Passing a constant electric current through the soil volume under a low voltage removes toxicants from deep soil layers even with flooding. In addition, it reduces pollutant content in the upper layer, where the plants root system is located, which creates more favorable conditions for phytoremediants. Adequately selected types of plants will ensure additional soil cleaning, improve its structure and air exchange. The results of two research directions are presented. Experiments on the study of plant resistance to oil-contaminated soil substrate allowed establishing contamination thresholds at which it is advisable to sow a particular species, and to choose optimal phytoremediants. The study of the oil-containing soil cleaning in a monocathodocentric electrochemical installation with the fixation of main characteristics (oil products concentration, soil temperature, volt-ampere characteristics) allows us to develop technical measures to prepare territories for phytoremediation taking into account the relief features.

How to cite: Shulaev N.S., Kadyrov R.R., Pryanichnikova V.V. Combined method of phytoremediation and electrical treatment for cleaning contaminated areas of the oil complex // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 265. p. 147-155. EDN WJRQDO
Editorial
  • Date submitted
    2023-07-19
  • Date accepted
    2023-07-19
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Energy efficiency in the mineral resources and raw materials complex

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Energy efficiency and energy saving at all times and especially at the present stage of development of industry and economy have played an extremely important role. Regardless of which countries and according to what criteria they build energy development plans, energy efficiency and energy saving are always a priority. This fully applies to the mineral resources complex, in which energy consumption as a whole makes up a large share of total consumption. The resources mined in the mineral resources complex are themselves a source of energy. The energy sector is evolving in many ways. Many scientific works, the results of which are reflected in publications, confirm the relevance of research in the energy efficiency field. But the approach to individual decisions in the mineral resource industry is specific and it is worth of separate consideration. Recently, much attention has been paid to “green energy” and renewable energy sources. However, energy efficiency in the field of traditional generation and consumption remains an urgent problem and its solution is in constant development. One of the main directions for improving energy efficiency is the development of autonomous systems for the electrical and thermal power engineering. All these problems are reflected in a special volume of the Journal of the Mining Institute, the articles are divided into four sections: energy efficiency of the electric drive in the mineral resources complex (MRC); energy efficiency of industrial plants and enterprises in MRC; power quality and renewable sources in MRC; autonomous power supply systems in MRC. The presented articles contain valuable material from the scientific and practical points of view and can form the basis for further research in the energy efficiency field.

How to cite: Shklyarskiy Y.E., Skamyin A.N., Jiménez Carrizosa M. Energy efficiency in the mineral resources and raw materials complex // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 323-324.
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-10
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Enhancement of energy efficiency of the vacuum oil distillation unit using pinch analysis

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The actual task of the state is to increase the energy efficiency of the oil refinery. The object of research is a vacuum distillation unit, including a preheating unit for raw materials and a furnace for heating fuel oil before the column. Pinch analysis allows to analyze and optimize a large number of heat flows. In this study the analysis and enhancement of efficiency of the research object is carried out by enthalpy pinch analysis. In order to reduce the heat load of the furnaces, the additional flows were introduced into the heat exchange system of the oil heating unit. Parametric optimization of the new heat exchange system was carried out. The minimum needs of the heat exchange system in external energy carriers are determined. An enthalpy cascade of the heat exchange system has been constructed, which clearly shows the distribution of heat between each heat flow of the system. In the analysis of the energy efficiency of a furnace, an important point is the determination of the optimal heat capacity of the combustion products. In this work, we have determined the optimal flow heat capacity, at which the heat loss with the exhaust gases is minimal. As a result of the studies carried out, the efficiency of the fuel oil preheating unit has been increased by maximizing heat recovery, and the cost of external energy carriers has been minimized. By reducing heat loss with flue gases, it was possible to increase the efficiency of the furnace.

How to cite: Yushkova Е.А., Lebedev V.A. Enhancement of energy efficiency of the vacuum oil distillation unit using pinch analysis // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 415-427. EDN LXDVDP
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-14
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Evaluation of the energy efficiency of functioning and increase in the operating time of hydraulic drives of sucker-rod pump units in difficult operating conditions

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The necessity of improving the drives of the sucker-rod hydraulic pump units (SRHP), operated in conditions of marginal and complicated wells, is substantiated. For complicated oil production conditions, it is promising to use the SRHP drive, which makes it possible to select and set rational operating modes for downhole equipment. The results of comparative tests of conventional mechanical and hydraulic actuators SRHP with pneumatic and electrodynamic balancing types are presented. A generalized indicator for evaluating the effectiveness of the advanced SRHP drives functioning, the energy efficiency coefficient, is proposed. It has been experimentally proven that the use of the SRHP drive with pneumatic balancing is characterized by low energy efficiency of the well fluid production process. The use of the tested SRHP hydraulic drive made it possible to successfully eliminate asphalt, resin, and paraffin deposits and minimize the well downtime. The results of the tests of the traditional SRHP mechanical drive and the hydraulic drive with electrodynamic balancing showed a satisfactory energy efficiency of the latter. The advantage of the SRHP drive with electrodynamic balancing is the simplicity of the design of the hydraulic part. The process of energy regeneration during the drive control system operation causes an increase in the reactive power component in the oil field network and the appearance of harmonic interference that adversely affects the consumers operation. Technical solutions aimed at improving the operation energy efficiency and increasing the operating time of SRHP drives in the conditions of marginal and complicated wells are proposed. The methodological bases for assessing the economic efficiency of the introduction of the advanced SRHP drives are given.

How to cite: Shishlyannikov D.I., Zverev V.Y., Zvonareva A.G., Frolov S.A., Ivanchenko A.A. Evaluation of the energy efficiency of functioning and increase in the operating time of hydraulic drives of sucker-rod pump units in difficult operating conditions // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 349-362. EDN XLRCWN
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-02
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Improving the efficiency of autonomous electrical complex with renewable energy sources by means of adaptive regulation of its operating modes

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Renewable energy sources are gradually becoming useful in mining industry. They are actively used in remote, sparsely populated areas to power shift settlements, geological and meteorological stations, pipeline equipment, mobile cell towers, helicopter pads lighting, etc. In comparison with diesel generators, systems with renewable sources do not require fuel transportation, have short payback periods and flexible configuration for different categories of electrical loads. The main obstacles to their spread are instability of generation and high cost of produced electricity. One of the possible ways to solve these problems is to develop new technologies, increase power density of generators and energy storage systems. The other way represents energy saving and rational use of affordable resources. The new solutions for implementation of the second method are proposed in this work. The object of the study is autonomous DC electrical complex with photovoltaic and wind power sources. In such systems the generated power from renewable sources is transferred to consumers via intermediate DC bus, the voltage level of which affects the power losses in the process of power transmission. The vast majority of complexes have a problem that their DC bus voltage is constant, while the optimum voltage level with lowest losses varies depending on the generated and consumed power. Therefore, electrical complexes potentially lose a part of the transmitted energy. To avoid this, a special algorithm was added to automatically adjust DC bus voltage to optimum level according to changes in working conditions. An additional contribution to efficiency improvement can be made by dynamic change of operating frequency in power converters depending on their load. The evaluation based on results of computer simulation showed that in a complex with rated power 10 kW active power losses during its lifetime can be reduced by 2-5 %.

How to cite: Shpenst V.A., Belsky A.A., Orel E.A. Improving the efficiency of autonomous electrical complex with renewable energy sources by means of adaptive regulation of its operating modes // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 479-492. EDN SNUKNA
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-12
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Increasing the energy efficiency of an autonomous power supply system of a drilling rig in case of voltage dips

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The article discusses the emergency modes of operation of an autonomous electrical complex of a drilling rig. The concept of voltage failure and its influence on the technological process of industrial enterprises is revealed. A description of the methods used in the power supply of industrial enterprises to overcome voltage dips and load surges in autonomous power systems is presented, from which it is possible to single out the accelerated lifting of critical equipment to prevent emergency conditions, as well as the use of backup storage, usually batteries. An algorithm has been developed for the interaction of the battery and the diesel generator set as backup power sources during various modes of operation of the electric motor, taking into account load surges, which allows successfully overcoming voltage dips in the system both in transient and in steady state. It is proposed to use a combined method to eliminate the voltage dip, a feature of which is the use of a combined structure of backup power sources as part of a diesel generator set and a battery, acting on the base of the proposed interaction algorithm in autonomous electrical complexes. The method makes it possible to overcome sudden load surges and voltage dips caused by a shortage of reserve power in the electrical system. The use of a rechargeable battery as a transitional element makes it possible to switch between the main and backup power sources without stopping the technological one and to expand the overload threshold of an autonomous electrical complex up to 60 %. The use of the combined method increases the energy efficiency of the autonomous complex due to a reduction in the number of emergency shutdowns of equipment, process interruptions and additional power consumption.

How to cite: Chervonchenko S.S., Frolov V.Y. Increasing the energy efficiency of an autonomous power supply system of a drilling rig in case of voltage dips // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 470-478. EDN MGAPVA
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-04-02
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Integration of renewable energy at coal mining enterprises: problems and prospects

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This article addresses the issue of developing renewable energy in coal mining enterprises in the Russian Federation. The study presents a methodology for assessing the technical and economic efficiency of introducing renewable energy sources based on simulation modeling. An analysis of the potential of solar and wind energy for coal mining regions in Russia is conducted. The authors use a custom software developed by them to simulate the power supply system for various scenarios of renewable energy integration, including solar generation, wind generation, solar generation with energy storage, wind generation together with solar generation. Based on the example of the Rostov region, a feasibility study of the considered options is presented. Additionally, the research includes a sensitivity analysis of the investment project in the conditions of uncertainty in the development of Russian renewable energy. The research findings indicate that even in market conditions with CO2 emission quotas and prices at the level of the Sakhalin experiment, renewable energy in coal mining enterprises in Russia remains unattractive and requires additional support.

How to cite: Nepsha F.S., Varnavskiy K.A., Voronin V.A., Zaslavskiy I.S., Liven A.S. Integration of renewable energy at coal mining enterprises: problems and prospects // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 455-469. EDN LNSCEY
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-16
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Energy efficiency of the linear rack drive for sucker rod pumping units

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At present, in order to increase oil production and reduce economic costs in the development of marginal fields, the development of a cluster method using compact mobile drives of sucker rod pumping units (SRPU) is relevant. The aim of the work is to analyze the ways to improve the energy efficiency of the SRPU by reducing the loss of mechanical and electrical energy, to select the most energy-efficient compact drive for the development of marginal fields in the cluster method, to carry out the kinematic and strength calculations of the drive of the selected size, to develop an adaptive control system for a group of drives in the cluster development of drillings. According to the results of the performed calculations, the linear rack-and-gear drive has the highest efficiency of the drive mechanism. The kinematic and strength calculations of a linear rack-and-gear drive with a stroke length of 1120 mm and a load of up to 8 tons are presented. It was shown that the usage of a direct torque control system and a kinetic energy storage system for the SRPU drive elements and a rod string is an effective means of reducing energy costs in oil production from marginal fields. The use of the developed system for storing and redistributing the potential energy of the rods between the SRPUs that lift oil made it possible to eliminate fluctuations in the power consumption, reduce the power peak value by three times, the peak value of the current consumed from the electric network by two times, and reduce losses in the input converter and cables by three times.

How to cite: Ganzulenko O.Y., Petkova A.P. Energy efficiency of the linear rack drive for sucker rod pumping units // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 325-338. EDN HIGAOE
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-11-11
  • Date accepted
    2023-01-19
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Evaluation of the efficiency of sorbents for accidental oil spill response in the Arctic waters

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The development and operation of new oil fields on the Arctic shelf increases the risks of oil spills, which require the use of oil spill response tools and materials that are efficient in harsh climatic conditions. The question of actual efficiency of sorbents for reducing the level of oil pollution in the conditions of the Arctic and subarctic waters is relevant. The work is aimed at a comparative study of the efficiency of sorbents of mineral and organic origin used by coastal enterprises in the Kola Bay as well as a sorbent based on chitin in model systems simulating real conditions in sea waters. The characteristics of sorption agents were determined applying ASTM F716-18 procedure. Sorption capacity was evaluated in respect of ARCO grade oil, diesel fuel and marine oil. The efficiency of sorbents was estimated in model systems “sea water – oil” at water temperature corresponding to the average annual surface temperature in the Barents Sea. Actual data on sorption capacity of commercial sorbents “Lessorb”, “Novosorb”, a sorbent based on vermiculite and chitin sorbent in relation to potential pollutants of waters were obtained. The dynamics of sea water saturation with oil products at –0.5 (±1) and 10 (±1) °С was determined. It is shown that at higher temperature the concentration of oil products in sea water column (in the presence of an oil film on the surface) is on average four times higher than at low temperature. Kinetic dependences were obtained that describe the content of oil products in water column and near-surface layer of sea water in the presence of the studied sorbents at 5 (±1) °C, corresponding to the average annual temperature in the Kola Bay of the Barents Sea. A method is proposed for evaluating the efficiency of sorbents from the values of regression coefficients characterizing the dependence of oil products content in sea water on the character of sorbent and duration of its action.

How to cite: Vasileva Z.V., Vasekha M.V., Tyulyaev V.S. Evaluation of the efficiency of sorbents for accidental oil spill response in the Arctic waters // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264. p. 856-864. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2023.14
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2022-10-13
  • Date accepted
    2022-12-13
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

A complex model of a drilling rig rotor with adjustable electric drive

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A modified mathematical model of an asynchronous electric drive of the rotor – a drill string – a bit – a rock is considered and implemented, which develops and generalizes the results of previously performed studies. The model includes the following subsystems: a model of an asynchronous drive with vector control; a model of formation of the resistance moment at the bottom of the bit, taking into account the peculiarities of the interaction between the bit and the rock; a model of a multi-mass mechanical part that takes into account the deformation of the drill string; subsystem for the drilling rig energy-technological parameters formation. The integrated model makes it possible to calculate and evaluate the selected drilling modes, taking into account their electro-mechanical, energy and technological efficiency and the dynamics of drilling processes. The performed computer simulation of drilling modes confirmed the possibility of a stick-slip effect accompanied by high-frequency vibrations during bit stops, which may change the direction of rotation of the bit, its accelerated wear and unscrewing of the drilling tool. Long bit stops lead to a significant decrease in the average bit rotation speed, which can explain the decrease in the ROP and increase in energy consumption when drilling in the zone of unstable bit rotation. The model can be used as a base for further improvement of rotary drilling control systems.

How to cite: Ershov M.S., Komkov А.N., Feoktistov E.A. A complex model of a drilling rig rotor with adjustable electric drive // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261. p. 339-348. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2023.20
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-09
  • Date accepted
    2022-11-17
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Drilling of deep and ultra-deep wells for prospecting and exploration of new raw mineral fields

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Scientific and technological progress over the last century has led to an enormous increase in the consumption of minerals, including energy resources. Most of the exploited oil and gas fields are already considerably depleted, so it is necessary to search for new hydrocarbon resources, particularly at great depths. Deep drilling plays a special role in solving this problem. The article considers the world and Russian experience of ultra-deep wells drilling. The methods and technologies used in the construction of wells, as well as complications and accidents occurring during their drilling were analyzed. The analysis revealed that the existing limitations for drilling parameters of deep and ultra-deep wells are caused by the technical characteristics of surface and bottomhole drilling equipment, which do not meet the extreme drilling conditions. The directions for development of deep and ultra-deep well drilling machinery and technologies are suggested. The notion of extreme rock and geological drilling conditions is introduced, which describes drilling in conditions of hydrostatic pressure of flushing fluid column and high bottomhole temperature both at stable and unstable wellbore conditions, coming close to the upper limit of operating technical characteristics of bottomhole assembly, the drill string and flushing fluid.

How to cite: Dvoynikov M.V., Sidorkin D.I., Yurtaev S.L., Grokhotov E.I., Ulyanov D.S. Drilling of deep and ultra-deep wells for prospecting and exploration of new raw mineral fields // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258. p. 945-955. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.55
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-12
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-15
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Problem solution analysis on finding the velocity distribution for laminar flow of a non-linear viscous flushing fluid in the annular space of a well

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Modern drilling fluids are non-linear viscous media with an initial shear stress. In classical scientific works on hydromechanical modeling of drilling fluids motion in pipes and annular channels the Shvedov – Bingham approximation and Ostwald – de Waale power-law model were used, which did not fully account for behavior of technological fluids in a wide range of shear rates. This article presents a numerical solution for a mathematical model of drilling fluid motion of the three-parameter Herschel – Bulkley rheological model in the annular space of the well. The Herschel – Bulkley model in the rheological equation takes into account the presence of initial shear stress and a tendency for viscosity to change with shear rate, which distinguishes it from the Ostwald – de Waale and Shvedov – Bingham models. The target function in solving the equation of motion is the velocity distribution in the radial direction of the upward flow of the flushing fluid. The analysis of obtained solution is based on the theory of velocity profile influence on quality of cuttings removal during wellbore cleaning. Due to peculiarities of mathematical statement of the task, which supposes necessity of differential equation of motion solution, Wolfram Mathematica computational software has been used as a calculation tool. The analysis of numerical solution allowed to draw conclusions about the possibility of its application in evaluation of velocity profile when drilling fluid moves in annular space of the well. The possibility for application of modified excess coefficient as a relative quantitative parameter for evaluation of velocity profile uniformity was substantiated.

How to cite: Nikitin V.I. Problem solution analysis on finding the velocity distribution for laminar flow of a non-linear viscous flushing fluid in the annular space of a well // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258. p. 964-975. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.93
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-03-24
  • Date accepted
    2022-07-21
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

A probabilistic study on hole cleaning optimization

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Hole cleaning is considered as one of the most important drilling fluid functions. An efficient hole cleaning ensures a reliable well drilling practice with minimum troublesome problems. In this study, two main steps of hole cleaning, i.e., cuttings removal from under the bit and cuttings transport to the surface are discussed based on the drilling data of a shale formation. The traditional models for optimization of each step are presented. As the models require variety of input data, which are usually subjected to some extent of errors and uncertainties, the output of the model is also an uncertain parameter. Using Monte Carlo simulation, a simple probabilistic study was conducted to quantify the certainty level of the obtained results. Based on the result of this study, it is shown that for the proposed well, a good hole cleaning is expected. However, a more reliable decision for further hole cleaning optimization should be made considering the results of uncertainty analysis.

How to cite: Tabatabaee Moradi S.S. A probabilistic study on hole cleaning optimization // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258. p. 956-963. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.67
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2022-03-01
  • Date accepted
    2022-05-25
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Study on the rheological properties of barite-free drilling mud with high density

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Improved drilling and reservoir penetration efficiency is directly related to the quality of the drilling mud used. The right choice of mud type and its components will preserve formation productivity, stability of the well walls and reduce the probability of other complications. Oil and gas operators use barite, less often siderite or hematite weighting agent as a weighting component in the composition of drilling muds for the conditions of increased pressure. But the use of these additives for the penetration of the productive formation leads to the reduction of filtration characteristics of the reservoir, as it is almost impossible to remove them from the pore channels. Therefore, barite-free drilling mud of increased density based on formic acid salts with the addition of carbonate weighting agent as an acid-soluble bridging agent is proposed. The results of experimental investigations on rheological parameters of barite-free solutions are given and the obtained data are analyzed. Based on the comparison of results it is recommended to use high-density drilling mud on the basis of formic acid salts (sodium and potassium formate) and with the addition of partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide with molecular mass of 27 million.

How to cite: Leusheva E.L., Alikhanov N.T., Brovkina N.N. Study on the rheological properties of barite-free drilling mud with high density // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258. p. 976-985. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.38
Metallurgy and concentration
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-20
  • Date accepted
    2022-10-10
  • Date published
    2022-11-03

Monitoring of grinding condition in drum mills based on resulting shaft torque

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Grinding is the most energy-intensive process among all stages of raw material preparation and determines the course of subsequent ore beneficiation stages. Level of electricity consumption is determined in accordance with load characteristics forming as a result of ore destruction in the mill. Mill drum speed is one of process variables due to which it is possible to control ore destruction mechanisms when choosing speed operation mode of adjustable electric mill drive. This study on increasing energy efficiency due to using mill electric drive is based on integrated modelling of process equipment – grinding process and electromechanic equipment – electric drive of grinding process. Evaluating load torque by means of its decomposition into a spectrum, mill condition is identified by changing signs of frequency components of torque spectrum; and when studying electromagnetic torque of electric drive, grinding process is monitored. Evaluation and selection of efficient operation mode of electric drive is based on the obtained spectrum of electromagnetic torque. Research results showed that with increasing mill drum speed – increasing impact energy, load torque values are comparable for the assigned simulation parameters. From the spectra obtained, it is possible to identify mill load condition – speed and fill level. This approach allows evaluating the impact of changes in process variables of grinding process on parameters of electromechanical system. Changing speed operation mode will increase grinding productivity by reducing the time of ore grinding and will not lead to growth of energy consumption. Integration of digital models of the technological process and automated electric drive system allows forming the basis for developing integrated methods of monitoring and evaluation of energy efficiency of the entire technological chain of ore beneficiation.

How to cite: Zhukovskiy Y.L., Korolev N.A., Malkova Y.M. Monitoring of grinding condition in drum mills based on resulting shaft torque // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 256. p. 686-700. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.91
Metallurgy and concentration
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-17
  • Date accepted
    2022-10-18
  • Date published
    2022-11-03

Scientific experimental bases for dry beneficiation of mineral ores

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The article presents the results of research on the development of processes and equipment for ore preparation and pneumatic dry beneficiation of mineral ores. The methods of crushing and grinding before enrichment of minerals have been considered, dry enrichment of geomaterials is investigated. Highly efficient prototypes of beneficiation equipment are developed and tested: crushers of multiple dynamic impact RD-MDV-900, DKD-300, centrifugal grinders CMVU-800 and VCI-12, pneumatic separator POS-2000. Fundamental designs are created, and a number of new ore preparation and pneumatic beneficiation instruments are being designed. The efficiency of approbation of an autonomous dry beneficiation complex with new safe environmental standards for the processing of gold-bearing ores, which makes it possible to fully release and extract free gold with a particle size from 10,000 to 100 µm, is shown. The introduction of the dry beneficiation method is very promising for the mining industry. It will allow to reduce capital costs for the construction of stationary beneficiation plants, completely or partially withdraw from the use of process water, the construction of a water supply system, a traditional tailing dam, etc.

How to cite: Matveev A.I., Lebedev I.F., Vinokurov V.R., Lvov E.S. Scientific experimental bases for dry beneficiation of mineral ores // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 256. p. 613-622. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.90
Metallurgy and concentration
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-17
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-06
  • Date published
    2022-11-03

Methodological substantiation of the choice for optimal modes of equipment operation during the stage-wise concentrate removal in iron ores beneficiation

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The urgent task of improving the quality of iron ore concentrates was studied. We propose to use the stage-wise removal of the concentrate by combining fine screening, regrinding, and magnetic-gravity separation. Exemplified by magnetite ore from the Stoilensky GOK, a scientific and methodological approach to the search for optimal separation parameters and modes was substantiated. It includes several stages: studying the particle size distribution and release of useful components in the feed product to select classification parameters; a series of experiments on grinding oversize products to diverse sizes; beneficiation of the obtained products by MG separation. To select the optimal parameters of ore preparation, an analysis of the beneficiation efficiency was used, which is calculated according to the Hancock – Luyken criterion. The results of the research are experimental dependences that connect the process parameters of beneficiation with those of fine vibratory screening. For the studied ferruginous quartzite ore processed at the Stoilensky GOK, the obtained dependences can be described by a second-order polynomial with a high accuracy of approximation. The best performance is achieved with a particle size of 0.1 mm: Fe tot content in the concentrate is 69.7 %, recovery is 85 %, classification efficiency is 80.4 %. The top size of the product in this case is 0.076 mm, which corresponds to 70-73 % grinding size of –0.045 class.

How to cite: Opalev A.S., Alekseeva S.A. Methodological substantiation of the choice for optimal modes of equipment operation during the stage-wise concentrate removal in iron ores beneficiation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 256. p. 593-602. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.80
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-10-15
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-06
  • Date published
    2022-11-10

Experimental research on the thermal method of drilling by melting the well in ice mass with simultaneous controlled expansion of its diameter

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During the seasonal work of the 64th Russian Antarctic Expedition in 2018-2019 at the “Vostok” drilling facility named after B.B.Kudryashov (“Vostok” station, Antarctic) specialists of Saint Petersburg Mining University conducted experimental investigations on the process of drilling by melting with simultaneous expansion of wells in the ice mass. A test bench and a full-scale model of a thermohydraulic reamer-drilling tool were developed, manufactured and tested for the research. The first bench tests of the full-scale model proved its efficiency and suitability for experimental drilling with simultaneous expansion of wells in ice mass; its operational capabilities were determined and the drawbacks that will be taken into account in future were found out. The article substantiates the choice of constructive elements for thermohydraulic reamer-drilling tool. It is determined that the technology of full diameter drilling with simultaneous expansion of the well in ice mass can be implemented by combining contact drilling by melting and convective expansion with creation of forced near-bottomhole annular circulation of the heated heat carrier. Dependencies of expansion rate on main technological parameters were determined: active heat power of heating elements in penetrator and circulation system, mechanical drilling rate, pump flow rate. According to the results of investigations, the experimental model of thermohydraulic reamer-drilling tool will be designed and manufactured for testing in conditions of well 5G.

How to cite: Serbin D.V., Dmitriev A.N. Experimental research on the thermal method of drilling by melting the well in ice mass with simultaneous controlled expansion of its diameter // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 257. p. 833-842. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.82
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-10-18
  • Date accepted
    2022-01-24
  • Date published
    2022-04-29

Development of a hydrocarbon completion system for wells with low bottomhole temperatures for conditions of oil and gas fields in Eastern Siberia

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The paper presents the results of investigations on the influence of low bottomhole temperatures in the intervals of productive formations on the technological properties of solutions used for drilling and completion of wells in order to determine the possibility of increasing gas recovery coefficient at the field of the “Sila Sibiri” gas pipeline. The analysis of technological measures determining the quality of the productive horizon drilling-in was carried out. It was found out that the dispersion of bridging agent in the composition of the hydrocarbon-based drilling mud selected from the existing methods does not have significant influence on the change in the depth of filtrate penetration into the formation in conditions of low bottomhole temperatures. The main reason for the decrease in the near-bottomhole zone permeability was found out – the increase in plastic viscosity of the dispersion medium of the hydrocarbon-based drilling mud under the influence of low bottomhole temperatures. A destructor solution for efficient wellbore cleaning from hydrocarbon-based solution components in conditions of low bottomhole temperatures was developed. The paper presents the results of laboratory investigations of hydrocarbon-based drilling mud and the developed destructor solution, as well as its pilot field tests. The mechanism of interaction between the destructor solution and the filter cake of the hydrocarbon-based drilling mud ensuring the reduction of the skin factor in the conditions of the geological and hydrodynamic structure of Botuobinsky, Khamakinsky and Talakhsky horizons of the Chayandinskoye oil and gas condensate field has been scientifically substantiated.

How to cite: Dvoynikov M.V., Budovskaya M.E. Development of a hydrocarbon completion system for wells with low bottomhole temperatures for conditions of oil and gas fields in Eastern Siberia // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 253. p. 12-22. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.4