WorldWide Drilling Resource

Mining Graduates on the Rise Adapted from Information by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration The rising number of graduates from U.S. mining and mineral engineering programs was reflected in the recently released 2016 SME Guide to Minerals and Materials Science Schools. Accord- ing to the guide, there were more than 425 mining engineering degrees of all levels awarded to students graduating from U.S. mining schools in 2015. This incredible news reflects a 20% increase from the previous year’s number of 356 graduates and is a far cry from the all- time low of 54 recorded in 2004. Mining is one of a handful of sectors projected to add jobs at a fairly constant rate over the next 20 years. Although there is a decline in the number of mining and mineral engineering programs at U.S. colleges and universities, there continues to be a noticeable increase in the number of graduates in those programs. With large numbers of mining professionals reaching re- tirement age, the industry demand for qualified graduates to enter the workforce has intensified. There are several schools and universities dedicated to help promote mining education, including: University of Alaska - Fairbanks - School of Mineral Engineering The University of Arizona - Department of Mining and Geological Engineering Colorado School of Mines - Western Mining Resource Center University of Kentucky - College of Engineering - Department of Mining Engineering Michigan Tech - Mining Engineering Department Missouri University of Science and Technology - Mining Engineering Department (Formerly University of Missouri-Rolla) Montana Tech - The University of Montana - Mining Engineering University of Nevada, Reno - Mining Engineering New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology The Pennsylvania State University - College of Earth and Mineral Sciences South Dakota School of Mines and Technology - Department of Mining Engineering Southern Illinois University at Carbondale - Department of Mining Engineering The University of Utah - Department of Mining Engineering Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Department of Mining and Minerals Engineering West Virginia University - Mining Extension Service and Department of Mining Engineering Most raise boring applications begin with the drilling of a pilot hole, and significant time and cost is associated with pulling pipes out to change bits due to gauge wear. Sandvik’s RR880 range of pilot bits have a new design focused on improved gauge protection to increase bit life and productivity. They provide both durability and hole straightness, and up to 35% longer bit life than the predecessor, to substantially reduce the time and cost for changing tools. “With the new Sandvik RR880 pilot bits, you can drill longer between bit changes. Fewer bit changes means shorter project times and increased profit at the end of the day,” stated Göran Strand, product line manager, Sandvik Mining. 17 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® JUNE 2016