MNG 230 - Introduction to Mining Engineering
This is a sample syllabus.
This sample syllabus is a representative example of the information and materials included in this course. Information about course assignments, materials, and dates listed here is subject to change at any time. Definitive course details and materials will be available in the official course syllabus, in Canvas, when the course begins.
Overview
This course introduces students to the practice of mining engineering and the roles and responsibilities of mining engineers in contemporary society. The economic importance of mined commodities is described, and the life cycle of a mine from resource discovery to mine reclamation is examined. The selection of a mining method, the engineering-design parameters that define the mine, and the design and analysis of the unit operations are studied in detail. This course provides students with an understanding of the mining industry and the methods used to produce mineral products, and it provides a foundation for more advanced courses in mining systems design and analysis.
Objectives
When you successfully complete this course, you will be prepared to:
- characterize the minerals industry and describe the commonly mined minerals, their use, the mining regions where these minerals are extracted, and the life cycle of a mine;
- calculate resource estimates using deterministic techniques;
- demonstrate an understanding of the unit and auxiliary operations used in mining;
- design safe and efficient blast rounds that satisfy both regulatory constraints and production goals;
- demonstrate an understanding of the process to move from a viable resource to an active mining operation, and articulate the factors that affect decisions to conduct a feasibility study and to move forward with the development of the mining operation;
- select a mining method based on an understanding of the factors that affect this decision;
- describe in words and drawings the surface and underground mining methods, and the relative advantages and disadvantages of each; and
- recommend specific actions to improve the sustainability of mining operations.
Required Materials
The materials listed here represent those that may be included in this course. Students will find a definitive list in the course syllabus, in Canvas, when the course begins.
Required textbook
Hartman, H. L., & Mutmansky, J. M. (2002). Introductory mining engineering. Hoboken, NJ: J. Wiley. ISBN: 0471348511
It is recommended that you purchase this from SME (Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration) using your student member discount. Further, it is recommended that you purchase a printed rather than an electronic copy of the book. There is also a copy of the book on reserve in the Earth and Mineral Sciences Library at University Park.
Prerequisites
None
Expectations
We have worked hard to make this the most effective and convenient educational experience possible. How much and how well you learn is dependent on your attitude, diligence, and willingness to ask for clarifications or help when you need them. We are here to help you succeed. Please keep up with the class schedule and take advantage of opportunities to communicate with us and with your fellow students. You can expect to spend an average of 8 - 10 hours per week on class work.
This class will meet virtually via Zoom on Tuesdays from 1:35 pm to 2:50 pm (EST). No other technology is required. Exams will be proctored.
Major Assignments
This course will rely on a variety of methods to assess and evaluate student learning, including:
- Homework Assignments (30% of total course grade)
- Skeleton Notes (5% of total course grade)
- Quizzes (30% of total course grade)
- MNG Software/Non-major alternative assignment(s) (10% of total course grade)
- Final Exam (25% of total course grade)
Course Schedule
All assignment deadlines will be available in Canvas at the start of the semester.
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Module 1 Introduction to the Mining Industry |
| 2 | Module 1, continued Introduction to the Mining Industry |
| 3 | Module 2 Life Cycle of a Mine and Related Matters |
| 4 | Module 3 Prospecting and Exploration |
| 5 | Module 4 Development |
| 6 | Module 5 Unit & Auxiliary Operations |
| 7 | Module 5, continued Unit & Auxiliary Operations |
| 8 | Module 6 Mining in Society |
| 9 | Module 6, continued Module 7 |
| 10 | Module 7, continued Explosives and Blasting |
| 11 | Module 8 Surface Mining |
| 12 | Module 8, continued Surface Mining |
| 13 | Module 8 Underground Mining |
| 14 | Module 8, continued Underground Mining |
| 15 | Contemporary Topics and Guest Lectures |
| Final Exam | |