Mining Communications
- Mining Value Chain: Establish, Mine
- Product Function: Systems Intergration, Operational Logistics
A key aspect of Impact technology is that it provides a large bandwidth, enabling an order of magnitude increase of data handling rate over more conventional leaky feeder type and hybrid Ethernet radio systems. This provides a mine with robust communications infrastructure and a higher data throughput to support the deployment of general TCP/IP applications and devices. The Impact design architecture philosophy also provides extended general TCP/IP functionality with the added benefit of utilizing productivity enhancing tools available through proprietary and off-the-shelf 802.11 wireless networking technologies.
In case a higher flexibility is required at the face the MST Impact system can be extended with the Rajant 802.11 b wireless mesh network. Such a network consists of multi-hop systems in which wireless devices assist each other in transmitting packets through the network. If one link fails for any reason, the network automatically routes messages through alternate paths. The wireless mesh network would ensure constant data and VOIP connectivity with drill rigs and roof bolters at the face even though these machines are stationary in a workplace for a portion of the shift.
The Impact communication product range is the result of advanced engineering design, understanding mining environments, combined with the latest 802.11 communication technologies. It provides a quantum leap forward from traditional technologies by delivering improvements in reliability, bandwidth, data quality, system capacity and support for open standards. The Impact digital platform will deliver new capabilities for current and future mine requirements.
The most effective and universally accepted frequency band for two-way voice is VHF. These frequencies cannot penetrate rock due to the high level of attenuation that they suffer, as VHF communication is primarily reliant on line of sight. An example of this problem is the inability of a commercial radio signal to broadcast through tunnels. On the surface, line of sight transmission is feasible, however this is not always the situation in a mine.
To allow radio frequencies to function underground, it is necessary to replace a standard surface antenna system with a cable network. The cable networks can be installed to effectively radiate the signal throughout the mine. The cable utilised is designed to "leak" signal, which allows radio transmissions to leak into/from the cable.
The inherent loss of signal must be compensated for and this is achieved by the insertion of line amplifiers. The amplifiers are designed to compensate for a certain length of cable. Correct installation of the system will ensure that a consistent signal level is maintained throughout the network, hence throughout the mine.
Leaky Feeder technology is a combination of Leaky Feeder cable and Amplifiers. Other components can be added, but the backbone of the system comprises only these two elements.
The VDV System from MST delivers a reliable, easy to maintain two-way radio communication to mines. The productivity and safety benefits associated with a VDV installation make VDV a cost effective solution to underground communication.
