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Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-12-15
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-13
  • Date published
    2025-02-25

Development of equipment and improvement of technology for inertial thickening of backfill hydraulic mixtures at the final stages of transportation

Article preview

The results of the study of the functioning of the developed thickening equipment as part of the stowing complex for the formation of a flow of high-concentration hydromixture are presented. To explain the operation of the hydrotransport system of the stowing complex, equipped with a thickener of the developed design, its basic diagram is presented. A mathematical model has been created that describes the mechanism of inertial sedimentation of a solid component of a hydraulic mixture in a working chamber equipped with hydrodynamic profiles. Interaction with the profile leads to flow stratification due to a change in the trajectory of movement and a decrease in speed. The interval of rational velocity of primary pulp entering the input of the working chamber of the inertial thickener is substantiated. The synthesis of solutions of the thickening process model is performed in the COMSOL Multiphysics and Ansys Fluent programs. This made it possible to eliminate physical contradictions in the operation of the equipment and justify the overall dimensions of its main elements, ensuring the implementation of the mechanism of inertial sedimentation of the slurry. It was found that the concentration of the thickened flow at the outlet branch pipe of the thickener working chamber is determined by the level of the primary hydraulic fluid velocity, the characteristic length of the section of interaction with the deflecting profile, and the ratio of the flow and attack angles. A nomogram of the dynamics of the change in the hydraulic fluid concentration in the section of the outlet branch pipe depending on the ratios of the overall dimensions of the deflecting profile of the working chamber was compiled. The results of the study allowed formulating recommendations for selecting the dimensions of the thickener's deflecting hydrodynamic profile to form a flow of hydraulic mixture with a concentration of about 50 % by weight. The developed equipment can be used in a stowage complex and will increase the range of supply of the stowage mixture. This is due to the fact that a flow of primary slurry with a low concentration, due to lower pressure losses, can be moved in a pipeline system over a greater distance than a flow with a high filler content. The use of a thickener at the final stage of transportation is intended to increase the concentration of the hydraulic mixture immediately before production.

How to cite: Volchikhina A.A., Vasilyeva M.A. Development of equipment and improvement of technology for inertial thickening of backfill hydraulic mixtures at the final stages of transportation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2025. Vol. 271 . p. 168-180. EDN MDHQZT
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-07-27
  • Date accepted
    2024-06-03
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Normalized impulse response testing in underground constructions monitoring

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Impulse Response testing is a widespread geophysical technique of monolithic plate-like structures (foundation slabs, tunnel lining, and supports for vertical, inclined and horizontal mine shafts, retaining walls) contact state and grouting quality evaluation. Novel approach to data processing based on normalized response attributes analysis is presented. It is proposed to use the energy of the normalized signal calculated in the time domain and the normalized spectrum area and the average-weighted frequency calculated in the frequency domain as informative parameters of the signal. The proposed technique allows users a rapid and robust evaluation of underground structure’s grouting or contact state quality. The advantage of this approach is the possibility of using geophysical equipment designed for low strain impact testing of piles length and integrity to collect data. Experimental study has been carried out on the application of the technique in examining a tunnel lining physical model with a known position of the loose contact area. As examples of the application of the methodology, the results of the several monolitic structures of operating municipal and transport infrastructure underground structures survey are presented. The applicability of the technique for examining the grouting of the tunnel lining and the control of injection under the foundation slabs is confirmed. For data interpretation the modified three-sigma criteria and the joint analysis of the attribute’s behavior were successfully used. The features of the field work methodology, data collection and analysis are discussed in detail. Approaches to the techniques' development and its application in the framework of underground constructions monitoring are outlined. The issues arising during acoustic examination of reinforced concrete plate-like structures are outlined.

How to cite: Churkin A.A., Kapustin V.V., Pleshko M.S. Normalized impulse response testing in underground constructions monitoring // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270 . p. 963-976. EDN BPIOTO
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2023-08-14
  • Date accepted
    2023-12-27
  • Date published
    2024-12-25

Modelling of compositional gradient for reservoir fluid in a gas condensate deposit with account for scattered liquid hydrocarbons

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In oil and gas reservoirs with significant hydrocarbon columns the dependency of the initial hydrocarbon composition on depth – the compositional gradient – is an important factor in assessing the initial amounts of components in place, the position of the gas-oil contact, and variations of fluid properties throughout the reservoir volume. Known models of the compositional gradient are based on thermodynamic relations assuming a quasi-equilibrium state of a multi-component hydrodynamically connected hydrocarbon system in the gravity field, taking into account the influence of the natural geothermal gradient. The corresponding algorithms allow for calculation of changes in pressure and hydrocarbon fluid composition with depth, including determination of the gas-oil contact (GOC) position. Above and below the GOC, the fluid state is considered single-phase. Many oil-gas-condensate reservoirs typically have a small initial fraction of the liquid hydrocarbon phase (LHC) – scattered oil – within the gas-saturated part of the reservoir. To account for this phenomenon, a special modification of the thermodynamic model has been proposed, and an algorithm for calculating the compositional gradient in a gas condensate reservoir with the presence of LHC has been implemented. Simulation cases modelling the characteristic compositions and conditions of three real oil-gas-condensate fields are considered. The results of the calculations using the proposed algorithm show peculiarities of variations of the LHC content and its impact on the distribution of gas condensate mixture composition with depth. The presence of LHC leads to an increase in the level and possible change in the type of the fluid contact. The character of the LHC fraction dependency on depth can be different and is governed by the dissolution of light components in the saturated liquid phase. The composition of the LHC in the gas condensate part of the reservoir changes with depth differently than in the oil zone, where the liquid phase is undersaturated with light hydrocarbons. The results of the study are significant for assessing initial amounts of hydrocarbon components and potential efficiency of their recovery in gas condensate and oil-gas-condensate reservoirs with large hydrocarbon columns.

How to cite: Kusochkova E.V., Indrupskii I.M., Surnachev D.V., Alekseeva Y.V., Drozdov A.N. Modelling of compositional gradient for reservoir fluid in a gas condensate deposit with account for scattered liquid hydrocarbons // Journal of Mining Institute. 2024. Vol. 270 . p. 904-918. EDN QBQQCT
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
Energy industry
  • Date submitted
    2023-03-14
  • Date accepted
    2023-06-20
  • Date published
    2023-07-19

Forecasting planned electricity consumption for the united power system using machine learning

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The paper presents the results of studies of the predictive models development based on retrospective data on planned electricity consumption in the region with a significant share of enterprises in the mineral resource complex. Since the energy intensity of the industry remains quite high, the task of rationalizing the consumption of electricity is relevant. One of the ways to improve control accuracy when planning energy costs is to forecast electrical loads. Despite the large number of scientific papers on the topic of electricity consumption forecasting, this problem remains relevant due to the changing requirements of the wholesale electricity and power market to the accuracy of forecasts. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to support management decisions in the process of planning the volume of electricity consumption. To realize this, it is necessary to create a predictive model and determine the prospective power consumption of the power system. For this purpose, the collection and analysis of initial data, their preprocessing, selection of features, creation of models, and their optimization were carried out. The created models are based on historical data on planned power consumption, power system performance (frequency), as well as meteorological data. The research methods were: ensemble methods of machine learning (random forest, gradient boosting algorithms, such as XGBoost and CatBoost) and a long short-term memory recurrent neural network model (LSTM). The models obtained as a result of the conducted studies allow creating short-term forecasts of power consumption with a fairly high precision (for a period from one day to a week). The use of models based on gradient boosting algorithms and neural network models made it possible to obtain a forecast with an error of less than 1 %, which makes it possible to recommend the models described in the paper for use in forecasting the planned electricity power consumption of united power systems.

How to cite: Klyuev R.V., Morgoeva A.D., Gavrina O.A., Bosikov I.I., Morgoev I.D. Forecasting planned electricity consumption for the united power system using machine learning // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 261 . p. 392-402. EDN FJGZTV
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-04-03
  • Date accepted
    2023-03-02
  • Date published
    2023-12-25

Specifics of geotechnical risk control in the design of underground structures

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The underground space development is associated with the emergence of complex and dangerous situations, often leading to accidents. The condition for their development is the potential geotechnical risks. High-quality execution and analysis of design work at all the stages of design, starting from the early stages, is one of the effective ways to control risks. Clarification of the characteristics and features of the rock mass adjacent to the projected underground structure makes it possible to identify the potential cause of the occurrence of an adverse event with a certain probability during the construction and operation of an underground structure. The purpose of a qualitative risk analysis is to identify risk factors in underground construction. The value of the total geotechnical risk, expressed by the sum of each of the possible risks, should be numerically estimated at the design stage of a specific underground facility. At the same time, it is extremely important to develop a methodology for managing geotechnical risks, which would make it possible to assess their probability of development at an early stage of project preparation and propose measures to reduce or prevent them. This technique is given in the article. The results of the study conducted in accordance with the presented methodology showed that geotechnical risk control proved an effective method in preventing accidents during underground construction.

How to cite: Kulikova E.Y., Polyankin A.G., Potokina A.M. Specifics of geotechnical risk control in the design of underground structures // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 264 . p. 895-905. EDN DGEAGK
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-12-15
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-12
  • Date published
    2023-08-28

Substantiation and selection of the design parameters of the hydroficated equipment complex for obtaining backfill mixtures from current enrichment tailings

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The issue of the influence of the concentration of the solid phase on the reduction of energy costs and specific energy consumption during pulp transportation is considered. The procedure for preparing slurry from the current enrichment tailings is shown. A scheme is given and the operation of a hydroficated unit for thickening and hydraulic transport of backfill mixtures is described. A diagram of the movement of solid particles in one of the units of the complex – a lamellar thickener is shown. The summary table shows the main design parameters and characteristics of the lamellar thickener. A general view of the laboratory setup used for experimental studies with slurry at various concentrations is given. An example of calculating productivity, density and specific load is presented. The dependence of the shear stress on the velocity gradient was determined for various pulp concentrations. Experimental studies of the process of thickening the production of slurry from the current enrichment tailings have been carried out. It was found that the geometric dimensions of the thickener depend on the concentration of the solid phase in the transported mixture. It is concluded that the flow rate of the slurry and the head loss are functions of the rheological characteristics of the viscoplastic slurry and can be calculated from the derived calculated dependencies.

How to cite: Alexandrov V.I., Vatlina A.M., Makharatkin P.N. Substantiation and selection of the design parameters of the hydroficated equipment complex for obtaining backfill mixtures from current enrichment tailings // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 262 . p. 541-551. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.68
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-08-01
  • Date accepted
    2022-11-17
  • Date published
    2023-02-27

Use of machine learning technology to model the distribution of lithotypes in the Permo-Carboniferous oil deposit of the Usinskoye field

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Permo-Carboniferous oil deposit of the Usinskoye field is characterized by an extremely complex type of the void space with intense cross-sectional distribution of cavernous and fractured rock. In this study, for this production site, the process of 3D geological modeling has been implemented. At the first stage, it provided for automated identification of reservoir volumes by comparing the data of core and well logging surveys; at the second stage, identification of rock lithotypes according to Dunham classification is performed on the basis of comparison of thin sections examination and well logging data. A large array of factual information enables the use of machine learning technology on the basis of Levenberg – Marquardt neural network apparatus toward achievement of our research goals. The prediction algorithms of reservoir and rock lithotype identification using well logging methods obtained on the basis of the training samples are applied to the wells without core sampling. The implemented approach enabled complementing the 3D geological model with information about rock permeability and porosity, taking into account the structural features of the identified lithotypes. For the Permo-Carboniferous oil deposit of the Usinskoye field, the volumetric zoning of the distribution of different rock lithotypes has been established. Taking into account the lithotypes identified based on machine learning algorithms, density and openness of fractures were determined, and fracture permeability in the deposit volume was calculated. In general, during the implementation, the machine learning errors remained within 3-5 %, which suggests reliability of the obtained predictive solutions. The results of the research are incorporated in the existing 3D digital geological and process model of the deposit under study.

How to cite: Potekhin D.V., Galkin S.V. Use of machine learning technology to model the distribution of lithotypes in the Permo-Carboniferous oil deposit of the Usinskoye field // Journal of Mining Institute. 2023. Vol. 259 . p. 41-51. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.101
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2021-05-13
  • Date accepted
    2022-11-28
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Reproduction of reservoir pressure by machine learning methods and study of its influence on the cracks formation process in hydraulic fracturing

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Hydraulic fracturing is an effective way to stimulate oil production, which is currently widely used in various conditions, including complex carbonate reservoirs. In the conditions of the considered field, hydraulic fracturing leads to a significant differentiation of technological efficiency indicators, which makes it expedient to study in detail the crack formation patterns. For all affected wells, the assessment of the resulting fractures spatial orientation was performed using the developed indirect technique, the reliability of which was confirmed by geophysical methods. In the course of the analysis, it was found that in all cases the fracture is oriented in the direction of the development system element area, which is characterized by the maximum reservoir pressure. At the same time, reservoir pressure values for all wells were determined at one point in time (at the beginning of hydraulic fracturing) using machine learning methods. The reliability of the used machine learning methods is confirmed by high convergence with the actual (historical) reservoir pressures obtained during hydrodynamic studies of wells. The obtained conclusion about the influence of the formation pressure on the patterns of fracturing should be taken into account when planning hydraulic fracturing in the considered conditions.

How to cite: Filippov Е.V., Zakharov L.A., Martyushev D.A., Ponomareva I.N. Reproduction of reservoir pressure by machine learning methods and study of its influence on the cracks formation process in hydraulic fracturing // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 924-932. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.103
Metallurgy and concentration
  • Date submitted
    2022-05-13
  • Date accepted
    2022-09-24
  • Date published
    2022-11-03

Rapid detection of coal ash based on machine learning and X-ray fluorescence

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Real-time testing of coal ash plays a vital role in the chemical, power generation, metallurgical, and coal separation sectors. The rapid online testing of coal ash using radiation measurement as the mainstream technology has problems such as strict coal sample requirements, poor radiation safety, low accuracy, and complicated equipment replacement. In this study, an intelligent detection technique based on feed-forward neural networks and improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO-FNN) is proposed to predict coal quality ash content in a fast, accurate, safe,and convenient manner. The data set was obtained by testing the elemental content of 198 coal samples with X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The types of input elements for machine learning (Si, Al, Fe, K, Ca, Mg, Ti, Zn, Na, P) were determined by combining the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data with the change in the physical phase of each element in the coal samples during combustion. The mean squared error and coefficient of determination were chosen as the performance measures for the model. The results show that the IPSO algorithm is useful in adjusting the optimal number of nodes in the hidden layer. The IPSO-FNN model has strong prediction ability and good accuracy in coal ash prediction. The effect of the input element content of the IPSO-FNN model on the ash content was investigated, and it was found that the potassium content was the most significant factor affecting the ash content. This study is essential for real-time online, accurate, and fast prediction of coal ash.

How to cite: Huang J., Li Z., Chen B., Cui S., Lu Z., Dai W., Zhao Y., Duan C., Dong L. Rapid detection of coal ash based on machine learning and X-ray fluorescence // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 256 . p. 663-676. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.89
Economic Geology
  • Date submitted
    2022-06-02
  • Date accepted
    2022-07-21
  • Date published
    2022-10-05

Substantiation of the optimal performance parameters for a quarry during the stage-wise development of steeply dipping ore deposits

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The use of stage-wise schemes in the development of deep quarries is one of the ways to increase the economic efficiency of mining a deposit and determining the optimal stage parameters remains an urgent task. Such parameters are stage depth, bench height, block length, etc. However, there is a wide range of values for these parameters. Therefore, to select the optimal values and evaluate the effectiveness of design solutions, it is advisable to use the net present value, which is an international notion. As a result of the analysis of data on deposits, a large number of variable indicators can be identified that presumably affect the efficiency of mining. The article proposes to divide all parameters of the quarry mining into two types: mine engineering and economic. The importance of each of them is determined by the measure of influence on the net present value. Thus, to assess the measure of influence of mining indicators, the average values of each of them are taken, and as a result of the alternating change of one parameter under study, the measure of its influence on the discounted income received is estimated. The results of the analysis of relevant factors, their evaluation and comparative analysis are important indicators that significantly affect the design decisions made and the effectiveness of the investment project.

How to cite: Fomin S.I., Ovsyannikov M.P. Substantiation of the optimal performance parameters for a quarry during the stage-wise development of steeply dipping ore deposits // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. p. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.73
Modern Trends in Hydrocarbon Resources Development
  • Date submitted
    2021-09-17
  • Date accepted
    2022-04-07
  • Date published
    2022-12-29

Technique for calculating technological parameters of non-Newtonian liquids injection into oil well during workover

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Technique for automated calculation of technological parameters for non-Newtonian liquids injection into a well during workover is presented. At the first stage the algorithm processes initial flow or viscosity curve in order to determine rheological parameters and coefficients included in equations of rheological models of non-Newtonian fluids. At the second stage, based on data from the previous stage, the program calculates well design and pump operation modes, permissible values of liquid flow rate and viscosity, to prevent possible hydraulic fracturing. Based on the results of calculations and dependencies, a decision is made on the necessity of changing the technological parameters of non-Newtonian liquid injection and/or its composition (components content, chemical base) in order to prevent the violation of the technological operation, such as unintentional formation of fractures due to hydraulic fracturing. Fracturing can lead to catastrophic absorptions and, consequently, to increased consumption of technological liquids pumped into the well during workover. Furthermore, there is an increased risk of uncontrolled gas breakthrough through highly conductive channels.

How to cite: Mardashov D.V., Bondarenko А.V., Raupov I.R. Technique for calculating technological parameters of non-Newtonian liquids injection into oil well during workover // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 258 . p. 881-894. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.16
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-10-14
  • Date accepted
    2022-04-07
  • Date published
    2022-04-29

The influence of the shape and size of dust fractions on their distribution and accumulation in mine workings when changing the structure of air flow

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The results of the analysis of statistical data on accidents at Russian mines caused by explosions in the workings space have shown that explosions of methane-dust-air mixtures at underground coal mines are the most severe accidents in terms of consequences. A detailed analysis of literature sources showed that in the total number of explosions prevails total share of hybrid mixtures, i.e. with the simultaneous participation of gas (methane) and coal dust, as well as explosions with the possible or partial involvement of coal dust. The main causes contributing to the occurrence and development of dust-air mixture explosions, including irregular monitoring of by mine engineers and technicians of the schedule of dust explosion protective measures; unreliable assessment of the dust situation, etc., are given. The main problem in this case was the difficulty of determining the location and volume of dust deposition zones in not extinguished and difficult to access for instrumental control workings. Determination of the class-shape of coal dust particles is a necessary condition for constructing a model of the dust situation reflecting the aerosol distribution in the workings space. The morphological composition of coal mine dust fractions with dispersion less than 0.1 has been studied. Particle studies conducted using an LEICA DM 4000 optical microscope and IMAGE SCOPE M software made it possible to establish the different class-shapes of dust particles found in operating mines. It was found that the coal dust particles presented in the samples correspond to the parallelepiped shape to the greatest extent. The mathematical model based on the specialized ANSYS FLUENT complex, in which this class-form is incorporated, is used for predicting the distribution of explosive and combustible coal dust in the workings space. The use of the obtained model in production conditions will allow to determine the possible places of dust deposition and to develop measures to prevent the transition of coal dust from the aerogel state to the aerosol state and thereby prevent the formation of an explosive dust-air mixture.

How to cite: Smirnyakov V.V., Rodionov V.A., Smirnyakova V.V., Orlov F.A. The influence of the shape and size of dust fractions on their distribution and accumulation in mine workings when changing the structure of air flow // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 253 . p. 71-81. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.12
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-09-22
  • Date accepted
    2022-03-24
  • Date published
    2022-04-29

Predicting dynamic formation pressure using artificial intelligence methods

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Determining formation pressure in the well extraction zones is a key task in monitoring the development of hydrocarbon fields. Direct measurements of formation pressure require prolonged well shutdowns, resulting in underproduction and the possibility of technical problems with the subsequent start-up of wells. The impossibility of simultaneous shutdown of all wells of the pool makes it difficult to assess the real energy state of the deposit. This article presents research aimed at developing an indirect method for determining the formation pressure without shutting down the wells for investigation, which enables to determine its value at any time. As a mathematical basis, two artificial intelligence methods are used – multidimensional regression analysis and a neural network. The technique based on the construction of multiple regression equations shows sufficient performance, but high sensitivity to the input data. This technique enables to study the process of formation pressure establishment during different periods of deposit development. Its application is expedient in case of regular actual determinations of indicators used as input data. The technique based on the artificial neural network enables to reliably determine formation pressure even with a minimal set of input data and is implemented as a specially designed software product. The relevant task of continuing the research is to evaluate promising prognostic features of artificial intelligence methods for assessing the energy state of deposits in hydrocarbon extraction zones.

How to cite: Zakharov L.А., Martyushev D.А., Ponomareva I.N. Predicting dynamic formation pressure using artificial intelligence methods // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 253 . p. 23-32. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.11
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-07-05
  • Date accepted
    2022-01-24
  • Date published
    2022-04-29

Ensuring the excavation workings stability when developing excavation sites of flat-lying coal seams by three workings

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On the basis of analysis of mining plans and field studies at mines of JSC SUEK-Kuzbass, it is shown that in conditions of increasing the size of excavation columns during the development of flat-lying coal seams the stress-strain state of the rock mass along the workings length changes significantly. The necessity of predicting the stress-strain state at the design stage of the workings timbering standards, as well as subsequent monitoring of the workings roof state and its changes in the mining operations using video endoscopes, is noted. The results of numerical studies of the stress-strain state of the rock mass during the development of excavation sites by three workings for various combinations of width of the pillars between the workings for mining-geological and mining-technical conditions of the “Taldinskaya-Zapadnaya-2” mine are provided. The stresses in the vicinity of the three workings are compared with the values obtained during the development of the excavation sites by double drift. A set of recommendations on the choice of the location of the workings, the width of pillars, timbering standards that ensure the stable condition of the workings throughout the entire service life at the minimal losses of coal in the pillars is presented.

How to cite: Kazanin O.I., Ilinets A.A. Ensuring the excavation workings stability when developing excavation sites of flat-lying coal seams by three workings // Journal of Mining Institute. 2022. Vol. 253 . p. 41-48. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2022.1
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-03-18
  • Date accepted
    2021-09-10
  • Date published
    2021-12-16

Development of blocking compositions with a bridging agent for oil well killing in conditions of abnormally low formation pressure and carbonate reservoir rocks

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Production well killing before workover operations in late-stage oil and gas-condensate fields can be complicated by abnormally low formation pressure, carbonate type of reservoir rocks, and high gas-oil ratio. These complications lead to the intensive absorption of technological fluids by the formation and gas ingresses, which, in its turn, increases the time of killing wells and putting them on production, reduction of productivity, and additional costs. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a high-performance well-killing composition that would allow improving the efficiency of killing wells in complicated geological, physical, and technological conditions at the expense of reliable overlapping of the perforation interval (or open wellbore) to prevent gas intakes and gas outflow from the formation. To develop blocking compounds, a set of laboratory tests has been carried out, including physical and chemical (determination of density, viscosity, thermal stability, sedimentation stability, etc.) and research of blocking and filtration properties of compositions during simulation of a fractured reservoir. In the course of laboratory tests, the choice of fractional composition and polymer filler concentration was substantiated in the blocking emulsion and polymer compositions to increase the efficiency of their application under the complicated conditions of killing oil wells. As a result of laboratory research and field tests, the emulsion and polymer blocking compositions containing bridging agent (microcalcite) were developed, which increase the oil well killing efficiency by preventing the absorption of technological fluids in the formations and, as a result, preserving its productivity.

How to cite: Mardashov D.V. Development of blocking compositions with a bridging agent for oil well killing in conditions of abnormally low formation pressure and carbonate reservoir rocks // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 251 . p. 617-626. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.5.6
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2021-07-13
  • Date accepted
    2021-10-18
  • Date published
    2021-12-16

Prediction of the stress state of the shotcreting support under repeated seismic load

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The article assesses the impact of repeated blasts on the stress-strain state of the shotcreting support, which negatively affects the bearing capacity of the support and can lead to the formation of local rock falls in places of significant degradation of the shotcreting strength. Despite the fact that a single seismic load usually does not have a significant impact on the technical condition of the shotcreting support, repeated dynamic loading can lead to the development of negative processes and affect the safety. The article considers unreinforced and dispersed-reinforced shotcreting concrete as a shotcreting support. Models of deformation of rock and shotcreting support have been studied. To describe the deformation model of a rock mass, an elastic–plastic model based on the Hook-Brown plasticity condition has been accepted, which accurately describes the elastic-plastic behavior of a fractured medium. When performing the prediction of the stress-strain state of the shotcreting support, a model of plastic deformation of concrete with the accumulation of Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) was adopted, which allows to comprehensively consider the process of concrete deformation both under conditions of uniaxial compression and stress, and with minor edging draft. At the first calculation stage, a forecast of the seismic waves propagation in the immediate vicinity of the explosive initiation site was made. At the second stage, forecasts of the seismic waves propagation to the mine working and the stress-strain state of the support were made. On the basis of the performed studies, a methodology for assessing the impact of repeated blasts on the stress-strain state of the shotcreting support of the mine working is proposed.

How to cite: Karasev M.A., Sotnikov R.O. Prediction of the stress state of the shotcreting support under repeated seismic load // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 251 . p. 626-638. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.5.2
Mining
  • Date submitted
    2021-03-31
  • Date accepted
    2021-09-29
  • Date published
    2021-10-21

Methodology of modeling nonlinear geomechanical processes in blocky and layered rock masses on models made of equivalent materials

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The research purpose is to develop a methodology that increases the reliability of reproduction and research on models made of equivalent materials of complex nonlinear processes of deformation and destruction of structured rock masses under the influence of underground mining operations to provide a more accurate prediction of the occurrence of dangerous phenomena and assessment of their consequences. New approaches to similarity criterion based on the fundamental laws of thermodynamics; new types of equivalent materials that meet these criteria; systems for the formation of various initial and boundary conditions regulated by specially developed computer programs; new technical means for more reliable determination of stresses in models; new methods for solving inverse geomechanical problems in the absence of the necessary initial field data have been developed. Using the developed methodology, a number of complex nonlinear problems have been solved related to estimates of the oscillatory nature of changes in the bearing pressure during dynamic roof collapse processes; ranges of changes in the frequency of processes during deformation and destruction of rock mass elements, ranges of changes in their accelerations; parameters of shifts with a violation of the continuity of the rock mass under the influence of mining: secant cracks, delaminations, gaping voids, accounting for which is necessary to assess the danger of the formation of continuous water supply canals in the water-protection layer.

How to cite: Zuev B.Y. Methodology of modeling nonlinear geomechanical processes in blocky and layered rock masses on models made of equivalent materials // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 250 . p. 542-552. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.4.7
Oil and gas
  • Date submitted
    2021-01-20
  • Date accepted
    2021-03-29
  • Date published
    2021-09-20

Analysis of the causes of engineering structures deformations at gas industry facilities in the permafrost zone

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Construction of oil and gas infrastructure facilities on permafrost soils is the most important task of increasing the raw material base of the entire fuel and energy industry in Russia. Permafrost soil is a complex, multicomponent system, state of which depends on many factors. Buildings and structures built under such conditions, on the one hand, have a complex thermal effect on permafrost soils, and on the other hand, they perceive the consequences of changes in the characteristics of such soils. This situation leads to the fact that buildings and structures on permafrost soil during their life cycle are subject to complex and poorly predictable deformations. Article presents the results of a study for various degradation processes of permafrost soils that can be implemented at construction sites of industrial facilities. Analysis of the deformations causes for engineering structures at the gas industry in the permafrost zone is carried out. Series of reasons causing such deformations have been investigated. Comprehensive criterion for assessing changes in permafrost-geological conditions of industrial sites is proposed. It is suggested to apply the method of calculating the individual characteristics for the temperature regime of the territory to monitor and assess the conditions of heat exchange and predict changes in the geocryological conditions of permafrost soil.

How to cite: Vasiliev G.G., Dzhaljabov A.A., Leonovich I.A. Analysis of the causes of engineering structures deformations at gas industry facilities in the permafrost zone // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 249 . p. 377-385. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.3.6
Electromechanics and mechanical engineering
  • Date submitted
    2021-03-04
  • Date accepted
    2021-04-05
  • Date published
    2021-06-24

Justification and selection of design parameters of the eccentric gear mechanism of the piston lubrication and filling unit for the mining machines maintenance

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Piston pumps are widely used in the lubrication systems of mining machines. When carrying out technical maintenance (MOT), including lubrication and filling works, at the site of operation of mining machines due to the remoteness from repair shops and warehouses of fuels and lubricants (FAL), mobile repair shops ( MRS), maintenance units (MU) and mechanized filling units (MFU) are used. The specificity of carrying out maintenance is to create conditions for the supply of oils, working fluids and lubricants to the corresponding systems of mining machines for their refueling. Existing piston pumps and pumping units, as a rule, are single-flow, and the piston is driven by a crank mechanism driven from the engine through a worm gear. The emergence of unique, hydraulic, low-mobility mining machines in open pit mining required a significant increase in the power of the MU and MFU oil pumping units, primarily for greases. However, the traditional design of the drive design of a crank-type piston pump unit at a power of over 80 kW does not allow achieving the specified operating time, it is accompanied by intensive wear of the drive elements and increased dynamics during operation. In addition, it is necessary to apply various designs of pumping units for the supply of liquid and grease lubricants. Thus, it is necessary to develop new circuit solutions for pumping units of the crank type, to improve mobile refueling facilities with a modernized design of the pump unit drive of the mobile lubrication and filling station MRS.

How to cite: Ivanov S.L., Safronchuk K.A., Olt Y. Justification and selection of design parameters of the eccentric gear mechanism of the piston lubrication and filling unit for the mining machines maintenance // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 248 . p. 290-299. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.2.13
Mining
  • Date submitted
    2020-07-30
  • Date accepted
    2021-03-02
  • Date published
    2021-04-26

Experimental study of thermomechanical effects in water-saturated limestones during their deformation

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Stability control of elements of stone constructions of various structures is a prerequisite for their safe operation. The use of modern methods of non-destructive diagnostics of the stress-strain state of such constructions is an effective, and in many cases the only way to control it. Studies of thermal radiation accompanying the processes of solid bodies deformation allowed to justify and develop a method that allows to obtain non-contact information about changes in the stress-strain state in various types of geomaterials, including limestones. However, studies of the water saturation influence of rocks on the thermal radiation parameters recorded in this way are currently superficial. Taking into account the water saturation degree of rocks is necessary when monitoring the mechanical condition of stone structures that are in direct contact with water. The main purpose of this work is to study the dependences of changes in the intensity of thermal radiation from the surface of limestone samples with different humidity under conditions of uniaxial compression. The obtained results showed the expected significant decrease in the mechanical properties (uniaxial compressive strength and elastic modulus) of water-saturated samples in comparison with dry ones. At the same time, a significant increase in the intensity of thermal radiation of limestone samples subjected to compression with an increase in their water saturation was recorded, which makes it necessary to take into account the revealed regularity when identifying changes in the stress state of stone structures established according to non-contact IR diagnostics in real conditions.

How to cite: Blokhin D.I., Ivanov P.N., Dudchenko O.L. Experimental study of thermomechanical effects in water-saturated limestones during their deformation // Journal of Mining Institute. 2021. Vol. 247 . p. 1-10. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2021.1.1
Oil and gas
  • Date submitted
    2020-05-21
  • Date accepted
    2020-10-05
  • Date published
    2020-11-24

Method of calculating pneumatic compensators for plunger pumps with submersible drive

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One of the most promising ways to improve the efficiency of mechanized oil production is a plunger pump with a submersible drive, which allows obtaining harmonic reciprocating movement of the plunger. In the pumping process of well products by plunger pumps, oscillations in the velocity and pressure of the liquid in the lifting pipes occur, which lead to an increase in cyclic variable loads on the plunger, a decrease in the drive life period and the efficiency of the pumping unit. To eliminate the pulsation characteristics of the plunger pump and increase the reliability indicators of the pumping unit (in particular, the overhaul period), pneumatic compensators can be used. A method for calculating the optimal technological parameters of a system of deep pneumatic compensators for plunger pumping units with a submersible drive, based on mathematical modeling of hydrodynamic processes in pipes, has been developed. Calculations of the forming flow velocity and pressure in the lifting pipes of submersible plunger units equipped with pneumatic compensators (PC) have been carried out. Influence of the PC technological parameters on the efficiency of smoothing the oscillations of velocity and pressure in the pipes has been analyzed. Non-linear influence of the charging pressure and PC total volume on the efficiency of their work has been established. Optimal pressure of PC charging, corresponding to the minimum pressure in the tubing during the pumping cycle for the considered section of the tubing, is substantiated. Two ultimate options of PC system placement along the lifting pipes are considered. In the first option, PC are placed sequentially directly at the outlet of the plunger pump, in the second - evenly along the lift. It is shown that the first option provides the minimum amplitude of pressure oscillations at the lower end of the tubing and, accordingly, variable loads on the pump plunger. Nature of the pressure and flow velocity oscillations in the tubing at the wellhead for both options of PC placement has similar values .

How to cite: Timashev E.O. Method of calculating pneumatic compensators for plunger pumps with submersible drive // Journal of Mining Institute. 2020. Vol. 245 . p. 582-590. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2020.5.10
Mining
  • Date submitted
    2020-02-19
  • Date accepted
    2020-04-17
  • Date published
    2020-10-08

Decrease in coal losses during mining of contiguous seams in the near-bottom part at Vorkuta deposit

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The problem of formation of extended zones with high rock pressure (HRP) from safety pillars at the boundaries of extraction pillars formed due to the mine layout of complex geometry is considered at the example of JSC Vorkutaugol mines. A detailed analysis of the remaining reserves of the near-bottom part of the deposit was carried out to estimate losses and the impact of HRP zones from the Chetvertyi protective seam to mining operations on the Troinoi upper seam along with the possibilities for the reduction of sizes of HRP zones at the account of expanding the underworked space. Due to research on the near-bottom part of the Vorkuta deposit, within the framework of the accepted layout, a zone at the Komsomolskaya mine and two zones at the Zapolyarnaya-2 mine were singled out, at which losses at the boundaries of the extraction pillars amount up to 13-22 % of the total resources of the mine field. The high volume of losses in these pillars indicates the relevance of research on the priority extraction impact of protective seams on the efficiency and safety of mining operations in the working area of underworked and HRP zones. Based on the analysis of foreign and Russian experience in the pillar cleaning-up at the boundaries of working areas and the methodical guidelines and instructions, a technological scheme was developed that allows increasing the coal mining recovery factor in the near-bottom part of the Vorkuta deposit from 0.75 to 0.9 without fundamental changing of the ventilation and transport networks and also without purchasing any additional mining equipment. The conducted economic calculations confirmed the effectiveness of implementing the new technological scheme for cleaning-up reserves at the boundaries of extraction districts. The economic effect is from 0.079 to1.381 billion rubles of additional profit from coaxial extraction pillars, depending on the mining and geological conditions and the size of the pillars.

How to cite: Kazanin O.I., Yaroshenko V.V. Decrease in coal losses during mining of contiguous seams in the near-bottom part at Vorkuta deposit // Journal of Mining Institute. 2020. Vol. 244 . p. 395-401. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2020.4.1
Geoeconomics and Management
  • Date submitted
    2019-09-29
  • Date accepted
    2020-02-24
  • Date published
    2020-04-24

Vs sustainable development: scenarios for the future

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Issues of sustainable development began to concern mankind starting from the 20th century, when mass industrialization and the depletion of natural resource potential contributed to the formulation of environmental issues at one of the leading places in scientific discourse. However, what if the goals of sustainable development would not be achieved to 2030? What other way we can identify for humanity to survive? So, the study is about the problems of studying the understanding of the term “sustainable development”, considering the evolution of the formation of the concept of sustainable development and analyzing the modern goals of sustainable development for attainability. From an analysis of domestic and foreign experience, possible scenarios of the development of mankind are identified (such as 1. Creating an environmental framework, 2. Implementation of sustainable nature management practices in the conditions of natural and man-made objects, 3. Implementation of “geoengineering projects”, 4. Construction of autonomous ecosystems, 5. Space exploration in search of a new planet for life, provided that the goals of sustainable development would not be achieved. It has been established that today probability of achieving all the sustainable development goals by 2030 is too small, and the indicated scenarios require, firstly, the development of science and technology, and secondly, a competent assessment of the value of nature and solving the issue of specifying property rights for natural goods.

How to cite: Yurak V.V., Dushin A.V., Mochalova L.A. Vs sustainable development: scenarios for the future // Journal of Mining Institute. 2020. Vol. 242 . p. 242-247. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2020.2.242
Electromechanics and mechanical engineering
  • Date submitted
    2020-01-09
  • Date accepted
    2020-01-26
  • Date published
    2020-02-25

Mining excavator working equipment load forecasting according to a fuzzy-logistic model

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Due to the fact that the loads occurring in the working equipment of mining excavators are determined by a large number of random factors that are difficult to represent by analytical formulas, for estimating and predicting loads the models must be introduced using non-standard approaches. In this study, we used the methodology of the theory of fuzzy logic and fuzzy pluralities, which allows to overcome the difficulties associated with the incompleteness and vagueness of the data in assessing and predicting the forces encountered in the working equipment of mining excavators, as well as with the qualitative nature of these data. As a result of computer simulation in the fuzzyTECH environment, data comparable with experimental studies were obtained to determine the level of loading of the main elements of the working equipment of mining excavators. Based on a representative sample, a statistical analysis of the data was performed, as a result of which the equation of linear multiple stress regression in the handle of mining excavators was obtained, which allows to make an accurate forecast of the loading of the working equipment of the excavator.

How to cite: Velikanov V.S. Mining excavator working equipment load forecasting according to a fuzzy-logistic model // Journal of Mining Institute. 2020. Vol. 241 . p. 29-36. DOI: 10.31897/PMI.2020.1.29