WORLD PROSPECTS
existing systems into a more compact solution.
Last year in work done with an underground
equipment OEM, Rajant took no less than eight
radios in one machine down to one box, meaning
less complexity and less RF radiation, and of
course less maintenance.
Another issue with autonomous operations
underground is data security. Once key equipment
is autonomous, and given the sensitivity of
production data, you don’t want networks to be
vulnerable to hacking. The Rajant unit Rajant West
is dedicated to creating hardware and software for
mining and other industries that is safe from
hacking, using technology first used in the
defence market. And returning to the certification
issue, Rajant says it is looking at how to handle
explosive environment certification for the latest
networks, including cases that are used for
hardware such as the nodes themselves, in a way
that is cost effective for the customer.
Finally from its point of view, Rajant says of its
close relationship with 3D-P: “Rajant collaborates
with 3D-P as 3D-P specialises in complicated
mining network systems which require the
Flowrox PVEGs perform at Kara
asmania Mines Ltd (TMM) in Tasmania,
Australia, at the Kara mine site, has relied
on Flowrox PVEG Pinch Valves for the past
two years.
“Practicality and OH&S issues were the key
when choosing the valves for our hydrocyclones,
but of course the price played a role too,” states
one of the process managers from TMM. “The
steel housings are heavy and vulnerable to
corrosion, and various types of metal pass
through them, so the valves need to meet very
tough challenges and conditions,” he adds.
“The PVEGs are an ideal solution where shut-
off applications involve abrasive or corrosive
slurries, and they are designed to meet even the
most demanding customer specifications,” states
Martti Lahtinen, Flowrox Managing Director,
Australia operations.
T
“All application and slurry characteristics are
different, so we provide tailor-made flow control
solutions precisely in accordance with the
customer specification,” Martti continues. “To
resilience, high bandwidth, and reliability that
kinetic mesh systems bring to the table. There is
an inherent reciprocity between the companies in
that Rajant values its mining and consultative
expertise, and 3D-P respects Rajant’s technology,
which resolves many of the mining challenges 3D-
P’s customers encounter in the field. 3D-P has
incorporated Rajant technology into its Hornet
Portfolio of Intelligent End Points, but its partners
also plan, design and install Rajant’s portfolio of
wireless BreadCrumb nodes.” See Future Mines
Underground in this issue. www.rajant.com
meet the customer requirements we offer a
comprehensive sizing and selection service to
ensure the right product with the right material in
the right place.”
At the heart of the valve is the sleeve. The
sleeves are critical, and many times the
competing valves fail internally fast. “Our
operators like the fact that they can really rely on
the equipment,” TMM’s Process Manager
confirms.
The sleeve is the only part of the valve that is
in contact with the medium, and it is also the only
replaceable part. “What makes our valves so easy
to maintain is that the sleeves can be quickly
changed on site,” Lahtinen says.
“What we also like about the PVEGs is that
they are easy to install and handle,” TMM’s
Process Manager adds. The valve recommended
for TMM for this process, a PVEG50M with 50 mm
manual polyamide body, has been operating well
since installation. www.flowrox.com
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8 International Mining | APRIL 2017
www.dsiunderground.com