Underground mining highly depends on diesel-powered equipment to get the job done. Diesel power is a big source for the mines and provides a rugged, reliable, cost-effective energy source.

Diesel accounts for 72 per cent of the energy used by the mining sector.

Developing economies like China and India fuel demand and generate record-high prices for aggregates, precious metals, and other natural resources. As a result, diesel locomotives for mining equipment manufacturers are experiencing an increasingly healthy demand for diesel-powered vehicles that can extract, load, and transport.

Key Challenges of The Diesel-Powered Equipment in An Underground Environment

There are several challenges regarding the safe and efficient use of diesel-powered mining equipment in the underground mining poses.

Exposed Exhaust and Engine Components

 It is common for a Diesel exhaust to get extremely hot. And the work in the underground mines often occurs within restricted spaces. So uncovered exhausts and engine components create a big risk of severe burns. Visit Nelson Machinery & Equipment for any mining equipment or parts of locomotives rail.

Diesel Particulate Matter

: To protect the workers from harmful gases, you should thoroughly filter the exhaust from diesel-powered mining equipment. Fire safety: When oil from a ruptured hydraulic line or an engine leak comes in touch with exposed exhaust components, it may smoke.

High Ambient Heat

 Diesel-powered machinery can further heat the already oppressively hot underground atmosphere. Additionally, it may result in the malfunction of heat-sensitive connections and sensors.

Meet The Challenges: How Insulation Blankets Can Help

It is important to blanket the exposed engine and exhaust components to meet the challenges of operating diesel-powered equipment.

Workers are shielded from burns; ambient heat is reduced once properly insulated. In addition, a good ventilation system is essential in ensuring that hot air is removed and cooler air is brought in to remove toxic fumes from the mine.

Regarding the latter, pollution control equipment, such as catalysts and particulate filters, are essential in removing much of the harmful material before it leaves the exhaust. In addition, having the proper insulation will help the catalysts burn exhaust pollutants, which will maintain an optimal exhaust temperature as the exhaust travels through the pipework and into the catalyst.

Why Sometimes Standard Insulation Blankets Are Inadequate

Standard insulation covers can be less suitable for an underground mining environment due to two characteristics:

A standard insulation blanket often has fibre glass material on the underside. The wire mesh holds this non-combustible substance in place. However, in an underground mine, oil from a ruptured hydraulic hose line or an engine leak might ooze beneath an insulation blanket and get into the insulation material, even though this is generally acceptable. 

Why Choose Nelson Machinery?

Nelson Machinery & Equipment Ltd team has over 100 years of experience in Canada's mining industry and overhead cranes.

We understand the different demands of mining jobs, which is why we create unique solutions and equipment packages that fit the demands of each project. In addition, we always believe in building lasting relationships with our customers.