Energy and Sustainability - 2024 entry

This module covers a range of issues arising from the use of energy in mining, and from the general challenge of sustainability. It covers ventilation as a major cost for underground mines, and goes on to introduce power measurement and engineering principles as a tool for designing better electrical systems and reducing electrical power consumption. Finally, the module also covers some of the key topics in sustainability, including the importance of maintaining a social license to mine. The value of communication is stressed.

As the world gears up for net zero, demand for raw materials is set to soar. The energy transition presents unique challenges for the mining industry, which will need to innovate to grow.  This module focuses on the design or operation of mining systems with the aim of reducing energy demand and carbon emissions to minimising the impact on the environment. This module will build on the core engineering fundamentals developed in Year 1 and make you think across disciplines with the goal of evaluating sustainability on a whole system basis including resource supply and demand, energy supply and demand and sustainable management.  The module will also provide the knowledge and skills required to provide a safe underground mining working environment through sound ventilation practice.

On successful completion of this module you should be familiar with these Knowledge and Skills as specified in the Mine Management Apprenticeship Standard (ST1309):

The syllabus follows module specific skills and knowledge:

• Additional mathematics is provided, revising complex numbers, and adding skills in differential equations and matrices;
• The fundamental concepts of ventilation are introduced, based on fluid mechanics and thermodynamics calculations;
• The health effects of poor ventilation are discussed in a mine context;
• Energy efficiency is discussed: where losses occur, how to redesign for energy efficiency factor;
• Electrical energy efficiency is discussed, including the use of power factor correction, and the need for higher voltage transmission systems with their associated risks and benefits;
• The importance of communication is stressed throughout the module, and the process for writing formal documents is demonstrated.
• The effects of the near-mine community on mining operations are discussed, and measures that must be taken are introduced.

All passed components of the module will be rolled forward and will not be reassessed in the event of module failure.

Basic reading:

• Stroud – Engineering mathematics – 6^th or 7^th edition
• Sierra – Mine ventilation for students
• Rau – Writing for engineering students
• Morrison – The social license: how to keep your organisation legitimate
• Segura-Salazar and Tavares – Sustainability in the minerals industry: seeking a consensus on its meaning

Other Resources:

• Access to ventilation modelling software
• National Instrument NI43-101, Chapter 5, Rules and Policies

Reading list for this module: