Researchers and industrial scientists from Norway and South Africa are working on engineering a wireless network of sensors aimed at preventing explosions in mines.
The project was commissioned by South African mining industry representatives who wanted to be able to detect explosive gases in mines before they explode. SINTEF, the largest independent research organisation in Scandinavia, and GasSecure, one of its spin-off companies, were awarded the contract to develop the wireless sensor network.
The intention is to develop a communications network which will wirelessly transmit and receive signals within deep mine workings where drilling, blasting and excavation are taking place. The sensors and network equipment would have to contend with the inhospitable mining environment, where high levels of humidity, dirt, dust and temperatures are the norm.
“In the first instance, the system will be used to gather data that can immediately detect a potential explosion hazard in the mine, enabling mine-workers to rapidly receive a warning of danger, explained SINTEF Digital project manager Trond Bakken.
"The next objective will be to use the data as a basis for on-demand, and thus energy-saving, ventilation in the mine."
If their efforts are successful, the members of the project will also market their results in other countries that operate manned mines. The industry is providing an operational mine as a test site for the project.
The work follows in the wake of a pilot project that was carried out between 2012 and 2013, which demonstrated that a gas sensor from GasSecure can detect leakages of explosive hydrocarbon gases such as methane on board offshore platforms. The pilot project found that the sensor can also operate in mines.
The pilot project also demonstrated that underground wireless communication is possible even under the challenging conditions that prevail in the mining industry.
The current project will focus on the development of an additional sensor that will be used in conjunction with the gas sensor, with the ability to measure air flow, temperature and humidity.
Information regarding air flow in mines is crucial as it can indicate the danger level of gas leakages. For example, areas where air is static are more vulnerable to explosive gas build up in the event of a leakage.
The project will also develop the communication system that will link all the sensors into an integrated network.