TECHNOLOGY •
VENTILATION ON DEMAND FOR UNDERGROUND MINES
By Eamonn Ryan , editor RACA Journal | Cold Link Africa
The current trend towards integrating systems marks a significant shift from traditional methods , where mine ventilation and cooling systems operated in silos .
At Electra Mining in early September 2024 , ABB sales manager for Process Automation , Martin van Zyl described the company ’ s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability in mining through advanced Mine Ventilation control technologies – thereby optimising capital expenditure while also addressing operational expenditure .
At the exhibition , ABB showcased its ABB Ability™ Ventilation Optimizer . These systems are crucial for underground mining operations , where effective air quality management is paramount . The company ’ s distributed control system , known as System 800 XA , interfaces with sensors to monitor air quality and with other operational systems to optimise ventilation based on real-time data . This proactive approach not only enhances safety by preventing the circulation of air during hazardous conditions , such as a fire , but also improves overall energy efficiency .
ABB ’ s control system capabilities allow for real-time monitoring and management of multiple systems that affect air supply in mines . By controlling not just a single fan but all fans across different levels from the surface , the system provides a significant advantage .
These integrated systems are designed to respond dynamically to environmental conditions . For example , if CO2 levels rise in a specific area , the system can automatically adjust ventilation operations , ensuring optimal air quality throughout the mine . This unifies energy management , power management and process automation under a single platform . This holistic approach allows for better coordination between different operational aspects . By leveraging data from various systems , it can optimise cooling solutions based on real-time conditions . For instance , if only a few personnel are present in a section , the system can reduce airflow accordingly , leading to energy savings without compromising air quality . Conversely , in high-activity areas with diesel equipment , the system can increase airflow to ensure safety .
Electrification and decarbonisation of mining fleets Underground mining operations are forging ahead with the introduction of electric vehicles ( EVs ). However , this transition brings its own set of challenges , particularly regarding electrical distribution and charging logistics .
The ABB eMine™ portfolio consequently includes advanced fast-charging technology capable of charging electric vehicles in as little as 10-15 minutes . This rapid charging capability delivers up to 600 amps to a vehicle , significantly enhancing operational
ABB Ability eMine integrates electrification and digital systems from mine-to-port . efficiency . However , the effectiveness of this technology hinges on the evolving capabilities of battery systems , which must be able to safely handle such high currents without risk of damage .
While the fast-charging solutions are a step forward , van Zyl acknowledges that many mining operations still rely on fossil fuels . The ultimate goal is to transition to an all-electric mine powered by renewable energy sources , and he says that many of ABB ' s mining customers are already making strides in this direction by securing Independent Power Producer ( IPP ) agreements to develop renewable energy projects .
ABB is also enhancing underground vehicle operations through the introduction of Trolley Assist systems . This system enables electric vehicles to connect to the grid while in operation , allowing for simultaneous battery charging . This innovative technology , which has been successfully implemented in Sweden , represents a significant advancement in underground mining .
“ The rapid pace of technological advancements in this space has been remarkable , with impressive technology advances occurring every six months . ABB ’ s ongoing research and development ( R & D ) efforts continue to enhance the capabilities and efficiency of electric vehicles and their charging systems ,” says van Zyl .
He also highlighted the need for mining operators to embrace new technologies that can make a substantial impact on both costs and sustainability . By leveraging systems like Trolley Assist , Battery Fast- Charging and Ventilation Optimizer , ABB aims to drive the adoption of electric solutions that not only optimise performance but also reduce environmental footprints .
All images supplied by ABB www . africanmining . co . za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • March 2025 • 15