30+ Mining Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

The latest technologies in the mining industry include automated drilling systems, advanced charging and blasting techniques, and safety devices in excavation machinery.

• Automated drilling systems use advanced sensors and algorithms to optimize drilling operations and improve efficiency.

• Advanced charging and blasting techniques, such as electronic detonators and computer-controlled blasting, enhance safety and precision in rock fragmentation.

• Latest machineries in mining indust...read more

Underground working in mining involves the use of blasting systems, support systems, and ventilation.

• Underground working in mining is done through the use of tunnels and shafts.

• Blasting systems are used to break up the rock and extract the desired minerals.

• Support systems such as rock bolts, shotcrete, and steel arches are used to ensure the stability of the underground workings.

• Ventilation systems are crucial for providing fresh air, removing dust and gases, and maintaining ...read more

A mining engineer in an underground coal mine is responsible for designing and implementing mining plans, ensuring safety protocols, and optimizing production.

• Designing and implementing mining plans to extract coal efficiently and safely

• Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and implementing safety protocols

• Optimizing production by analyzing geological data and implementing efficient mining techniques

• Monitoring and managing equipment and machinery used in the mining proc...read more

Explaining blast output calculation and powder factor calculation.

• Blast output calculation involves determining the amount of material moved during a blast.

• Powder factor calculation involves determining the amount of explosive needed to move a certain amount of material.

• Blast output calculation can be done using the formula: Volume of material moved = hole volume x burden x spacing x number of holes.

• Powder factor calculation can be done using the formula: Powder factor = mass...read more

Various types of machinery are used in mining operations, with costs varying depending on the type and size of the equipment.

• Excavators are used for digging and removing overburden or ore, with costs ranging from $500,000 to $1 million per unit.

• Haul trucks are used to transport ore and waste materials, with costs ranging from $2 million to $5 million per unit.

• Drills are used for exploration and production, with costs ranging from $500,000 to $3 million per unit.

• Crushers are u...read more

Yes, I have worked in Al Nakheel Stones (formerly Gulf Star Minerals and Aggregates).

• I worked as a mining engineer in Al Nakheel Stones for 2 years.

• During my tenure, I was responsible for overseeing the extraction and processing of minerals and aggregates.

• I also implemented safety measures and ensured compliance with environmental regulations.

• One of my major achievements was optimizing the production process, resulting in a 15% increase in output.

• I left the company on good te...read more

Mining is the process of extracting minerals from the earth's surface for human use.

• Mining involves digging, drilling, and blasting to access mineral deposits

• Various methods are used for mining, including open-pit mining, underground mining, and placer mining

• Minerals extracted through mining include coal, gold, copper, and diamonds

The power pack position for longwall mining face should be strategically located for efficient operation.

• The power pack should be located near the longwall face to minimize the length of hydraulic hoses and electrical cables.

• It should be positioned in a safe and accessible location for maintenance and repair.

• The power pack should be designed to withstand the harsh mining environment, including dust and moisture.

• The layout should be optimized for efficient operation, with clea...read more

Bord and pillar mining percentage of extraction refers to the amount of coal or ore that can be extracted from a given area using this method.

• The percentage of extraction in bord and pillar mining can vary depending on factors such as the size of the pillars left behind, the thickness of the seam being mined, and the equipment used.

• In general, the percentage of extraction for coal using bord and pillar mining ranges from 40% to 60%, while for ore it can be as high as 80%.

• Fact...read more

Solid blasting is a method used in mining to break up rock using explosives. Precautions must be taken to ensure safety.

• Solid blasting involves using explosives to break up rock in mining operations

• Precautions include proper training for personnel handling explosives

• Safety measures such as warning signals and barricades should be in place

• Regular inspections of equipment and storage areas are necessary to prevent accidents

Friction is the force resisting the relative motion of solid surfaces, gears are of various types like spur, helical, bevel, etc., stress is the force applied to a material, strain is the deformation caused by stress.

• Friction is the force that opposes the motion of one surface over another.

• Types of gears include spur gears, helical gears, bevel gears, worm gears, etc.

• Stress is the force applied to a material per unit area, measured in units like Pascals or psi.

• Strain is the d...read more

There are two main types of explosives: high explosives and low explosives.

• High explosives: detonate with a supersonic shock wave, examples include TNT, C-4, and RDX

• Low explosives: deflagrate at a subsonic speed, examples include black powder and smokeless powder

Types of drilling in underground mines include diamond drilling, percussion drilling, and rotary drilling.

• Diamond drilling is used for obtaining core samples and is the most accurate method.

• Percussion drilling involves breaking rock with a hammer-like tool.

• Rotary drilling uses a rotating drill bit to bore into the rock.

• Other methods include blasthole drilling and raise boring.

Bench height refers to the vertical distance between each level in a mine. Loader safety features include seat belts, backup alarms, and emergency stop buttons.

• Bench height is determined based on the type of mining operation and equipment used.

• It affects the efficiency of mining operations and the stability of the mine walls.

• In open-pit mining, bench height is typically larger to accommodate larger equipment and improve productivity.

• In underground mining, bench height is smal...read more

The capital of India is New Delhi.

• The capital city of India is New Delhi.

• New Delhi is located in the northern part of India.

• It is the seat of the Indian government and houses important political and administrative institutions.

• New Delhi is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks like the Red Fort and India Gate.

Blasting exposure refers to the risk of harm to people and the environment from the use of explosives in mining operations.

• Blasting exposure can cause physical harm to workers, such as hearing loss, lung damage, and injuries from flying debris.

• It can also have environmental impacts, such as air and water pollution, and damage to wildlife habitats.

• To minimize blasting exposure, mining companies must follow strict safety protocols and use advanced technology to monitor and cont...read more

Space is the distance between blastholes, while burden is the distance from the blasthole to the free face of the rock.

• Space is the distance between blastholes in a blast pattern.

• Burden is the distance from the blasthole to the free face of the rock.

• Space affects the fragmentation and distribution of the blasted material.

• Burden influences the amount of energy transferred to the rock mass.

• Optimal space and burden ratios are crucial for efficient blasting operations.

HEMM stands for Heavy Earth Moving Machinery.

• HEMM refers to large machines used in mining and construction for moving earth and other materials.

• Examples of HEMM include dump trucks, excavators, bulldozers, and wheel loaders.

VOD stands for Vertical Opening Distance, which is a measurement used in mining engineering.

• VOD is the vertical distance between two levels in a mine.

• It is an important factor in determining the efficiency of ventilation systems in underground mines.

• VOD can impact the safety and productivity of mining operations.

• Example: A mining engineer must calculate the VOD to ensure proper airflow and ventilation in the mine.

• Example: Increasing the VOD can help improve air quality and re...read more

Blasting hole length and explosive use are crucial factors in mining engineering for efficient rock fragmentation.

• Blasting hole length should be optimized based on rock type, size, and desired fragmentation.

• Explosive type and amount should be carefully selected to achieve desired results.

• Proper stemming and initiation sequence are important for effective blasting.

• Examples: Using ANFO for soft rock and emulsion explosives for hard rock.

• Optimizing blast design can improve fragm...read more

Solid blasting is a method used in mining to break up solid rock using explosives.

• Solid blasting involves drilling holes into the rock, filling them with explosives, and detonating them to break up the rock.

• It is commonly used in mining operations to extract minerals and ores from the earth.

• The size and placement of the blast holes, as well as the type and amount of explosives used, are carefully calculated to ensure safe and efficient blasting.

• Solid blasting can create large...read more

Secondary blasting is a method used in mining to break up large rocks after the initial blast.

• Secondary blasting is done to further break down large rocks into smaller, more manageable pieces.

• It is typically done after the initial blast to maximize the efficiency of the mining operation.

• Secondary blasting can be done using explosives or mechanical methods such as hydraulic breakers.

• The goal of secondary blasting is to make the rock fragments easier to handle and transport.

The owner of the company is responsible for overseeing the operations, making strategic decisions, and ensuring the company's success.

• The owner is typically the individual or group of individuals who have invested capital into the company.

• Owners have the ultimate decision-making authority and are responsible for setting the company's goals and direction.

• Owners may also be involved in hiring key personnel, managing finances, and representing the company to stakeholders.

• Example...read more

Mining is the process of extracting valuable minerals or other geological materials from the earth.

• Mining involves digging, drilling, and blasting to access ores or minerals.

• It can be done underground or in open pits.

• Various methods are used such as surface mining, underground mining, and placer mining.

• Examples include coal mining, gold mining, and diamond mining.

UG mine coal refers to underground coal mining operations.

• UG mine coal refers to the extraction of coal from underground mines using various methods such as longwall mining, room and pillar mining, etc.

• Safety is a major concern in UG mine coal operations due to the potential risks of roof collapses, gas explosions, and other hazards.

• Ventilation systems are crucial in UG mine coal operations to ensure proper airflow and control of methane gas.

• Equipment used in UG mine coal ope...read more

Bench height of minerals refers to the vertical distance between each level in an open pit mine.

• Bench height is determined based on the type of mineral being mined and the equipment used for extraction.

• It is important to consider safety regulations and stability of the pit walls when determining bench height.

• Common bench heights range from 10 to 20 meters, but can vary depending on specific mining conditions.

• For example, softer minerals may require smaller bench heights to pr...read more

The digging height of an excavator refers to the maximum vertical distance from the ground level to which the excavator's bucket can reach.

• Digging height is an important factor to consider when selecting an excavator for a mining operation.

• It determines the depth of the excavation that can be achieved without repositioning the machine.

• Factors affecting digging height include the length of the excavator's boom and the reach of the bucket.

• For example, a large excavator with a l...read more

The inclination of a haul road refers to the slope or gradient of the road surface.

• The inclination of a haul road is important for ensuring safe and efficient transportation of materials.

• Steep inclinations can lead to increased fuel consumption and wear and tear on vehicles.

• Proper drainage is essential to prevent erosion and maintain road stability.

• Inclination angles are typically measured in degrees or as a percentage of rise over run.

• For example, a 10% inclination means the...read more

Types of coal include anthracite, bituminous, subbituminous, and lignite.

• Anthracite is the highest rank of coal and is hard, black, and has a high carbon content.

• Bituminous coal is the most commonly used type and is dense and black with a moisture content of less than 20%.

• Subbituminous coal is dull black and has a higher moisture content than bituminous coal.

• Lignite is the lowest rank of coal and is brownish-black with a high moisture content.

Roof support refers to the methods and materials used to prevent the collapse of the roof in underground mining operations.

• Roof support is essential for maintaining the stability and safety of underground mines.

• Common methods of roof support include roof bolts, mesh, straps, and wooden or steel beams.

• The choice of roof support method depends on the geology of the mine, the depth of the excavation, and the type of rock being mined.

• Roof support systems must be regularly inspect...read more

Safety features of a tipper include hydraulic brakes, rearview cameras, and emergency stop buttons.

• Hydraulic brakes provide better control and stopping power.

• Rearview cameras help the driver see blind spots and obstacles.

• Emergency stop buttons allow immediate halting of operations in case of emergencies.

A naturally occurring inorganic solid substance with a specific chemical composition and structure.

• Naturally occurring

• Inorganic

• Solid substance

• Specific chemical composition and structure

Coal grades are categorized based on their carbon content and energy value.

• Coal grades include lignite, sub-bituminous, bituminous, and anthracite

• Higher carbon content coal grades have higher energy value

• Anthracite is the highest grade coal with the highest carbon content and energy value

Load Haul Dump

• LHD stands for Load Haul Dump

• It is a type of underground mining equipment used to load ore into haul trucks

• Commonly used in hard rock mining operations

Method of workings refers to the specific approach or technique used in mining operations to extract minerals from the earth.

• Different methods of workings include open-pit mining, underground mining, and placer mining.

• The choice of method depends on factors such as the depth of the mineral deposit, the type of ore, and environmental considerations.

• For example, open-pit mining is used for shallow deposits, while underground mining is used for deeper deposits.

• Placer mining invo...read more