The mining industry is already moving into the automation age which is not only increasing production and efficiency, but also creating new challenges. Autonomous trucks heavy-laden with materials running across a mine site is not just dangerous to the workers but could also cause potential damage to resources. The problem is serious enough for mining companies to consider it an immediate threat that requires swift resolution. As a result, mine safety standards require companies to operate separate roads to haul materials — one road for heavy equipment, and another for light vehicles.
Addressing safety issues in the mining industry
One way mining companies can avoid safety risks brought about by automation is by using devices that provide enhanced proximity detection. These technologies often require some form of displacement transducer or any similar component which can detect objects and operate a system to avoid collisions.
Although there seems to be a consensus in the mining industry to invest in collision avoidance systems, not all available technologies in the market can withstand harsh mining environments. In line with this concern, tech companies that manufacture these collision systems need to respond to the demand for devices which are not only rugged but also have plug-and-play functionalities which can produce 3D rendered images of scenes and objects.
Sensors that use infrared technology are capable of movement surveillance and produce a single image depicting the scene and all the objects that could pose a potential hazard to the environment. Using infrared technology, rather than conventional cameras makes the device resistant to dust and function efficiently while exposed to a variety of materials.
These sensors are unlike other proximity sensors used in mining because each device comes with a custom packaging making it compliant with mining safety standards such as IP67 and IP69.
Intrinsic safety of sensors in the mining industry
One of the many challenges of adapting sophisticated technology in mining applications is the importance of adhering to safety regulations. Any device or machine component that runs on electricity or an external power source needs to be intrinsically safe.
Sensor manufacturers understand the importance of intrinsic safety because mining fields are some of the most hazardous working environments in the world. If sensors are not intrinsically safe, they could pose a potential fire and explosion hazard.
In line with the trend for automation, all sensors used in a variety of mining applications need to pass the stringent guidelines required to achieve certification. Most established sensor manufacturers that cater to mining consumers qualify to receive intrinsic-safety certification from different organisations.
Conclusion
Applications for sensors continue to evolve along with the increasing demand for machine automation. But despite the swift development of new sensor technology in various fields, the mining industry is cautious in adopting sophisticated sensors due to the increased focus and need for safety. Despite this, sensor manufacturers will further experiment on manufacturing techniques which will lead to the innovation of sensors that are not only superior in performance but also meet the safety guidelines essential in mining applications.
