Development of methodologies for the evaluation of wear-resistant materials for the mineral industry

The paper reports the first part of a project aimed at developing methodologies for the evaluation of wear-resistant materials in mining and mineral processing operations. A review of the literature revealed that almost no systematic studies have been made of wear phenomena in operating mining and mineral processing plants. There have been a multitude of laboratory studies of abrasive wear phenomena which purport to have some relevance to field applications, but very few of these have produced meaningful information. There is little doubt that substantial cost benefits can be derived from a more systematic approach to wear problems. It was concluded that a detailed study needs to be undertaken to determine the total costs associated with wear, including not only the cost of the replacement items themselves, but also the cost of labour associated with replacing worn components and the cost of lost production. The realisation of the savings which can accrue through relatively modest outlays should then become apparent. Techniques of experimental design and statistical analysis of data, combined with improved data collection and monitoring of field trials, have a key role to play in realising these savings. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science S.A.