MINE VENTILATION
by as much as 20-40 %.
These savings can then be used to supply air to other sectors where they are needed more , whether that be new , hitherto unexplored places or existing areas where the operator wishes to maintain or increase production . What is more , VoD can do this by using existing infrastructure – ventilation shafts , for instance – which equates to significant savings on capital expenditure and labour for customers .
ABB Ability VO is designed to be integrated into each operation depending on that project ’ s specific characteristics and existing level of automation and comprises three separate levels .
Level one is the standard package whereby ABB connects ABB Ability VO to the ventilation equipment so the customer can supervise and control the fans and air regulators remotely . They have the option to add further automation , meaning the system can automatically adjust air flow based on the mine ’ s time and production schedule and , also , in the event of a fire or blasting in the mine .
In level two , positioning tools such as tracking on demand are integrated in the mine systems to pinpoint the exact location of vehicles , machines and people based on the production schedule , so the ventilation system throughout the mine can be automatically adjusted based on air flow levels .
Finally , level three is full automation or ‘ closed loop ’ ventilation . An algorithm computes the optimal operational set points on all the fans and regulators depending on demand and sensors continuously feedback data , allowing the system to optimise air flows and air quality , and minimise energy usage .
By introducing three implementation stages , the VO system also gives customers time to adapt their processes and people so that the system can be fully integrated for maximum results .
“ VO should not be viewed as an isolated solution , however ; instead , it forms part of a portfolio of scalable , interconnected digital and automation technologies that together give operators complete control of a multitude of functions , from dewatering the mine to material tracking ,” Hillal and Nyqvist say .
Future innovations include online monitoring to ensure the ventilation system is working in the most optimal way . In terms of scalability , since VO is based on ABB ’ s 800xA platform , other advanced solutions can be integrated , such as ABB ’ s asset management and power monitoring systems , so mines can benefit from the company ’ s full range dedicated solutions for underground mine operations , all under one single integrated platform .
Hillal and Nyqvist conclude : “ In this way , VoD forms part of a package of digital , automation and electrification technologies that , when deployed together , can transform underground mines into safer , more efficient environments .”
Chart identifies Howden synergies
It ’ s just over a year ago since Chart Industries acquired ventilation leader Howden and the company says it is already seeing major synergies for its clients .
The company is looking to leverage Howden ’ s digital technology strengths – through solutions such as Ventsim™ DESIGN for the 3D design , modelling and simulation of underground mine and tunnel ventilation systems with controls for safe and efficient operation , and Ventsim CONTROL to reduce energy consumption , associated costs and improve energy efficiency in underground mining ventilation systems , supporting net-zero goals .
These fit into a variety of innovative digital solutions and simulation technology that , Chart says , supports easy tracking , timely interventions , equipment optimisation , reduced leakage and improved operational efficiency , resulting in cost and emissions savings for customers .
In its most recent sustainability report , Chart said it continues to enhance Ventsim capabilities and leverage advancement in technologies like artificial intelligence ( AI ).
“ We ’ re furthering our energy management and control tool kit and implementing a carbon calculator , building on the energy dashboards we have in place to visualise energy consumption , energy savings and , more recently , carbon emissions ,” it added . “ Chart is working to put ventilation-focused , AI-backed algorithms to work at mine sites , potentially taking the company ’ s ventilation optimisation abilities to new heights . This would coincide with a new web-based interface , introducing business intelligent dashboards to an already impressive line-up of features .”
These changes are expected to take place this year .
It added : “ By collecting real-time data on energy usage and resource consumption , we help our customers identify inefficiencies and make data-driven adjustments to reduce their environmental footprint . We actively monitor a global footprint of over 500 assets , from ventilation fans in mining to turbo blowers in wastewater treatment .
“ Since the Howden integration , we have developed a monitoring solution to optimise the performance of LNG fuelling stations and so far in 2024 , we enabled tracking of carbon capture from EarthlyLabs CiCi ® equipment . The combined impact of these innovations has the potential to significantly reduce industrial emissions and conserve resources .”
Efficient and economical ventilation systems
Zitrón also aims to offer optimal ventilation solutions as part of its mining remit , with an engineering department that boasts years of experience in ventilation systems , dedicated to providing a technical and value-oriented approach to ensure optimal performance in every project .
The key to the success of each project lies in Zitrón ’ s technical expertise , which covers advanced analysis and simulation . This sees exhaustive analysis supported by specialised simulation tools conducted by Zitrón experts to enable the optimisation and development of efficient and economically-viable ventilation systems . “ This approach allows for meticulous design at every stage of the project ,” Zitrón says .
The Zitrón team not only contributes technical expertise but also multidisciplinary skills in all phases of the project . From initial design to closure supervision and technical training , Zitrón says it ensures comprehensive management that guarantees the effectiveness and durability of ventilation systems .
It also ensures close collaboration with the customer , understanding that each project is unique , and as such , how to provide the necessary support to meet project requirements cost-effectively without compromising system performance or durability .
Zitrón says it adapts to the specific needs of each project , offering extensive experience in areas such as : n Ventilation system modelling , design and review at all project stages ; n Underground fire hazard and risk analysis with simulations to optimise the placement of refuge chambers and emergency egress points within mines and tunnels ; n Ventilation system installation support and oversight ; and n Auditing and optimising ventilation system performance . “ We don ’ t just provide ventilation systems ; we create technical solutions that combine experience , innovation and a commitment to safety and efficiency in underground environments ,” it concluded .
TLT-Turbo making quality , sustainable advancements
In a move that it says marks a significant technological advancement in the mining industry , TLT-Turbo Africa recently announced the successful implementation of a major ventilation project within the Platinum Belt of South Africa .
TLT-Turbo Africa says its latest project emphasises its role as a leader in mining equipment provision , with the project , completed in two phases , including the installation and
26 International Mining | JUNE 2024