The first applications of computers in the mineral industry started nearly four decades ago. Computer and computing have gone through an incredibly rapid evolution in these 40 years. Now we are in the age of fifth generation computers and of fourth era software. Mineral industry is at the forefront of utilizing these advancements in technology. Continuing improvements in the hardware and software, and cost and performance of these magnificent machines have ensured an explosive growth in applications. This book contains edited and revised papers presented at the proceedings of the Indo-U.S. Seminar and Round Table on "Computers in Mineral Industry", held in India. The object of the seminar was sharing and exchanging experiences on computer applications in the mineral industry, assessing research needs and priorities and identifying areas of mutual benefit. Over 60 senior mining engineers, academics and allied professionals from the Indian mining industry attended the seminar and the Round Table. In addition to the U.S. participants, there were participants from Turkey and Japan. Altogether 23 papers were presented at the Seminar. This publication contains 21 of the technical papers on computer applications, the recommendations of the Seminar and the Round Table, and brief descriptions of computer programs available from the U.S. Bureau of Mines.

In considering how computers are utilized in the mineral industry, this work includes coverage of mineral resource management, national database and national mineral exploration planning; project evaluation and monitoring applications; process control applications; and mine planning and design.