Influence of Ore Physical Properties on the Transportable Moisture Limit for Barged Materials

摘要

This study will correlate the physical properties of processed iron ore prepared for barge transportation to its Transportable Moisture Limit (TML). The TML is a rudimentary test developed to identify moisture contents of processed ore at which they may liquefy during transportation. If liquefaction occurs during transportation serious safety issues develop. Currently Doe Run is having difficulties in determining the ore properties that control their measured TML values and consequently are unable to develop an ore processing plan that will allow the ore to be loaded and shipped. This research will attempt to correlate properties such as grain size distribution, relative density, particle size and shear strength with the TML. These properties are known to control liquefaction of sands under earthquake loading and consequently should be important in the TML test.