Small Mining Operations
Ask The Experts
June 2016 by Chris Ralph
Q: How do I improve my small-scale mining operation’s gold production?Prospecting for Copper—What to Look for on the Outcrop
For the prospector, knowing what oxidized hydrothermal alteration looks like in the field is an important exploration tool.
Our Readers Say
The Jenkins Mine Project, Conclusion—Recovery Operations & Summary
This project taught me that you don’t need to be Albert Einstein to apply a little science to your prospecting. I learned that most of the science related to suction dredging is actually common sense. All we need to do is take the time to apply it.
PLP Update
All 28 groups listed agree that Section 402 of the Clean Water Act does not apply and no dredge miner should be asking a state or federal agency for such a permit.
Understanding Rock Formations: Petrology for Prospectors
There are times when being able to recognize a type of rock can make you a much more successful prospector.
Hard Rock 101: Mechanical Techniques
Since we know that the secret to breaking rock is applying force from the inside out (putting tension on the rock), we will be looking at ways we can generate force using human and machine power.
Proper Assaying of Placer Samples
The whole purpose of sampling mineralized ground is to measure the values in a small volume of material that would be representative of a much larger volume of similar material. The key word is representative. Chemical and fire assaying will not accurately represent placer deposits by themselves.
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The Bawl Mill
• Legislative and Regulatory Update
• The Heavy Minerals in Your Concentrates
• MMAC & PLP Update
• Pocket Gold
• Critical Metals: Antimony
• Care and Lubrication of a Model 13 Laboratory Wilfley Table
• Melman on Gold & Silver
• Mining Stock Quotes and Mineral & Metal Prices
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Detectors: Past, Present and Future
• Mining Districts: A Short Review of Legal Authorities
