Operational Foundations of Mining from edX

In this course we will investigate different planning levels, mining methods, downstream beneficiation activities and ancillary services. There will be an emphasis on the mine life-cycle that highlights the opportunities for integration along the value chain.

Through this course you will gain an understanding of the key unit procedures involved in different mining operations as you become familiar with different methods of exploiting an orebody, and the various intermediate products that are sold at different stages along the value chain. We will use a systems perspective that highlights the opportunities for integration along the value chain to meet multi-faceted objectives including profitability, efficiency, safety and sustainability. This will allow for the exploration of how the application of orebody knowledge across the mining life-cycle can have significant impacts on mining and processing operations.

You will be introduced to the relevant processing stages that follow the discovery and mining of mineral deposits, focusing on the various unit operations in the treatment of an orebody from identification through to a marketable mineral product.

This interactive course incorporates videos, expert insights, case studies and discussions to deepen your current understanding of the technical operations of a mining business.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Demonstrate an understanding of mine planning, mining methods, minerals processing and appraise the key unit operations involved across the value chain.
Describe a systems perspective that highlights the opportunities for integration along the value chain to meet multi-faceted objectives including profitability, efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Discuss the application of orebody knowledge across the mining lifecycle and its significance in mining and processing operations.
Students who complete this course will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of mine planning, mining methods, minerals processing and appraise the key unit operations involved across the value chain.
Describe a systems perspective that highlights the opportunities for integration along the value chain to meet multi-faceted objectives including profitability, efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Discuss the application of orebody knowledge across the mining lifecycle and its significance in mining and processing operations.
Students who complete this course will be able to:

Syllabus

Introduction to technical processes in a mining operation (lifecycle)

Mine planning

Surface mine design

Underground mine design

Mineral processing

Logistics and transportation

Closure and reclamation across the value chain

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces students to the entire life cycle of mining and mineral processing operations, from discovery of the orebody to the final marketable product

Examines various types of mining methods that students can use to exploit different types of orebodies

Explores the complexities of integrating mining and processing stages, highlighting opportunities for optimization along the value chain

Emphasizes the importance of maximizing profitability, efficiency, safety, and sustainability through the application of integrated systems thinking

Taught by experienced instructors, Bryan Maybee and Eric Lilford, with expertise in the mining industry

Requires a foundation in mining engineering or a related field, which some students may need to acquire before taking this course

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Operational Foundations of Mining with these activities:

Review: Mining Engineering Handbook

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Supplement the course materials with a comprehensive reference on mining engineering principles and practices.

View History of Shock Waves, Explosions and Impact:... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read selected chapters relevant to the course topics.
Take notes and highlight key concepts.
Refer to the book as a resource throughout the course.

Build a Glossary of Mining Terminology

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Expand vocabulary and reinforce understanding of technical terms used in mining operations.

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Collect definitions from textbooks, online resources, and course materials.
Create a digital or physical glossary.
Review and expand the glossary regularly.

Engage in Peer Discussion on Mining Methods

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Collaborate with peers to exchange knowledge, clarify concepts, and expand perspectives on mining methods.

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Form study groups or connect with classmates online.
Select a specific topic or mining method to discuss.
Share knowledge, experiences, and insights.
Engage in constructive discussions.

Four other activities

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Solve practice questions

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Solving practice questions will help you solidify your understanding of the key concepts and techniques covered in the course.

Browse courses on Unit Operations

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Identify the key concepts and techniques covered in each lecture.
Find practice questions related to these concepts and techniques.
Attempt to solve the practice questions on your own.
Check your answers and identify areas where you need further improvement.

Solve Unit Operations Problems

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Strengthen understanding and proficiency in core unit operations encountered in mining processes.

Browse courses on Unit Operations

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Gather practice problems from textbooks or online resources.
Attempt to solve the problems independently.
Review solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Repeat the process to reinforce understanding.

Develop a Concept Map of Orebody Knowledge

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Reinforce the interconnected relationships and applications of orebody knowledge throughout the mining lifecycle.

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Review the course materials on orebody knowledge and the mining lifecycle.
Brainstorm and identify the key concepts and relationships.
Create a visual representation using a concept mapping tool.
Analyze and evaluate the map for clarity and completeness.

Design a Mine Site Layout Optimization Plan

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Apply knowledge and skills to optimize the design and layout of a mining site, considering factors such as efficiency, safety, and environmental impact.

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Research best practices and industry standards for mine site layout.
Gather data on the site conditions, including geology, topography, and infrastructure.
Develop multiple design options and evaluate their feasibility.
Present the optimized layout plan with supporting justifications.

Career center

Learners who complete Operational Foundations of Mining will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Mineral Processing Engineer

Mineral Processing Engineers are responsible for the design and operation of mineral processing plants. They work to ensure that mineral processing plants are efficient and environmentally friendly. This course can help Mineral Processing Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the mineral processing process, from ore preparation to product recovery. This knowledge can help Mineral Processing Engineers to design and operate mineral processing plants that are efficient and environmentally friendly.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mineral Processing Engineer

Mine Manager

Mine Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of mining operations. They work to ensure that mining operations are safe, efficient, and profitable. This course can help Mine Managers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the mining life-cycle, from exploration to closure, and covers topics such as mine planning, mining methods, and mineral processing. This knowledge can help Mine Managers to make informed decisions about how to operate mining operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mine Manager

Metallurgical Engineer

Metallurgical Engineers are responsible for the development and production of metals. They work to ensure that metals are produced in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. This course can help Metallurgical Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the metallurgical process, from ore mining to metal production. This knowledge can help Metallurgical Engineers to design and operate metallurgical plants that are safe and environmentally friendly.

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Mining Engineer

Mining Engineers are responsible for the planning, design, and implementation of mining operations. They work to ensure that mining operations are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This course can help Mining Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the mining life-cycle, from exploration to closure, and covers topics such as mine planning, mining methods, and mineral processing. This knowledge can help Mining Engineers to make informed decisions about how to develop and operate mining operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Engineer

Mining Geologist

Mining Geologists are responsible for identifying and evaluating mineral deposits. They work to ensure that mining operations are economically viable. This course can help Mining Geologists to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the geological processes that form mineral deposits. This knowledge can help Mining Geologists to identify and evaluate mineral deposits.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Geologist

Mine Surveyor

Mine Surveyors are responsible for surveying and mapping mining operations. They work to ensure that mining operations are safe and efficient. This course can help Mine Surveyors to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the surveying and mapping techniques used in mining operations. This knowledge can help Mine Surveyors to survey and map mining operations safely and efficiently.

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Mining Technician

Mining Technicians are responsible for the day-to-day operation of mining equipment. They work to ensure that mining equipment is safe and efficient. This course can help Mining Technicians to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the operation and maintenance of mining equipment. This knowledge can help Mining Technicians to operate and maintain mining equipment safely and efficiently.

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Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers are responsible for the protection of the environment. They work to ensure that mining operations are environmentally friendly. This course can help Environmental Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the environmental regulations and best practices used in mining operations. This knowledge can help Environmental Engineers to protect the environment from the impacts of mining operations.

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Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineers are responsible for the design and construction of structures in soil and rock. They work to ensure that structures are safe and stable. This course can help Geotechnical Engineers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the geotechnical engineering principles used in the design and construction of structures in soil and rock. This knowledge can help Geotechnical Engineers to design and construct structures that are safe and stable.

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Health and Safety Officer

Health and Safety Officers are responsible for the health and safety of workers in mining operations. They work to ensure that mining operations are safe and healthy. This course can help Health and Safety Officers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the health and safety regulations and best practices used in mining operations. This knowledge can help Health and Safety Officers to protect workers from the hazards of mining operations.

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Mine Planner

Mine Planners are responsible for the planning of mining operations. They work to ensure that mining operations are efficient and profitable. This course can help Mine Planners to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. The course provides an overview of the mine planning process. This knowledge can help Mine Planners to plan mining operations that are efficient and profitable.

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Mining Consultant

Mining Consultants provide advice to mining companies on a variety of topics. This course may be useful for Mining Consultants who want to develop a deeper understanding of the mining industry. The course provides an overview of the mining life-cycle, from exploration to closure. This knowledge can help Mining Consultants to understand the context of their work and provide informed advice to mining companies.

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Mining Analyst

Mining Analysts are responsible for the analysis of mining data. They work to provide insights into the mining industry. This course may be useful for Mining Analysts who want to develop a deeper understanding of the mining life-cycle. The course provides an overview of the mining life-cycle, from exploration to closure. This knowledge can help Mining Analysts to understand the context of their work and make informed decisions about how to analyze mining data.

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Mining Equipment Operator

Mining Equipment Operators are responsible for the operation of mining equipment. They work to ensure that mining equipment is safe and efficient. This course may be useful for Mining Equipment Operators who want to develop a deeper understanding of the mining industry. The course provides an overview of the mining life-cycle, from exploration to closure. This knowledge can help Mining Equipment Operators to understand the context of their work and make informed decisions about how to operate mining equipment safely and efficiently.

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Mining Researcher

Mining Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics related to the mining industry. This course may be useful for Mining Researchers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the mining life-cycle. The course provides an overview of the mining life-cycle, from exploration to closure. This knowledge can help Mining Researchers to understand the context of their work and conduct research that is relevant to the mining industry.

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