COMPRESSED AIR IN MINING

Compressed Air in Mining Operations

Mining deep underground reserves for valuable resources is a continuous, 24/7 operation that relies heavily on a variety of equipment, including air compressors. Compressed air is integral to powering drilling equipment, setting off explosives, and providing clean air to miners. Any disruption in these processes can lead to mine collapses, loss of resources, and workplace injuries. Its versatility, portability, and reliability make compressed air an essential component in the mining sector.

Environmental Benefits of Compressed Air Systems

Compressed air systems not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to improving working conditions and reducing the carbon footprint in mining operations. Here are several key ways compressed air can support these objectives:

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Energy Efficiency: Modern compressed air systems incorporate advanced technologies such as variable speed drives and energy recovery systems, significantly minimizing energy consumption and reducing the overall carbon footprint of mining operations.
Alternative Power Sources: Compressed air systems can be powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, which helps decrease reliance on fossil fuels and lowers environmental impact.

Emission Reduction

Compared to traditional diesel-powered equipment, compressed air-driven tools and machinery generate fewer emissions, making them particularly beneficial in confined spaces where ventilation is challenging.

Energy Recovery

Compressed air systems can capture and reuse energy generated during the compression process, contributing to overall energy efficiency and lessening the need for power from non-renewable sources.

Selecting Energy-Efficient Equipment

Investing in energy-efficient compressors and optimizing their operation can greatly reduce energy consumption and the associated carbon footprint of mining operations.

Remote Monitoring and Control

Implementing smart technologies for remote monitoring and control of compressed air systems allows for real-time optimization, reducing unnecessary energy use and lowering operational costs.

By adopting these strategies, mining operations can enhance working conditions while taking significant steps toward environmental sustainability.

Common Applications of Compressed Air in Mining

1. Drilling and Blasting

Rock Drills: Compressed air-powered rock drills are essential for drilling blast holes, effectively breaking hard rock formations.
Blasting: Air is used to power pneumatic devices that initiate explosives for controlled blasting to extract minerals.

2. Material Handling

Pneumatic Conveying: Compressed air transports materials like ore and coal through pipelines, providing an efficient way to move bulk materials over long distances.

3. Dust Control

Dust Suppression: Compressed air sprays water or chemical suppressants to control dust generated during mining operations, improving air quality and safety.

4. Pneumatic Tools

Handheld Tools: Various pneumatic tools, including drills, wrenches, and grinders, are powered by compressed air for maintenance and repair tasks.

5. Ventilation

Air Circulation: Compressed air ventilates underground mines, circulating fresh air and removing hazardous gases, thus maintaining a safe working environment.

6. Water Pumping

Dewatering: Compressed air powers pumps for dewatering operations, efficiently removing excess water from mine workings.

7. Instrumentation and Control Systems

Automation: Compressed air is utilized in control systems, contributing to the automation of various mining processes.

8. Tunnel Boring Machines

TBM Operation: Compressed air is sometimes used in operating tunnel boring machines (TBMs) for excavating tunnels in mining projects.

9. Pipeline Pigging

Cleaning and Inspection: Compressed air propels pipeline pigs for cleaning and inspecting pipelines that transport mined materials.

10. Mining Rescue Operations

Breathing Apparatus: Compressed air powers breathing apparatus used in emergency rescue operations following accidents or disasters.

The use of compressed air in the mining sector provides a flexible and reliable energy source for various applications, enhancing both the efficiency and safety of mining operations. By prioritizing compressed air systems, mining operators can ensure optimal performance while also contributing to environmental sustainability. Contact us today to learn more about how our compressed air solutions can benefit your mining operations!

Piping Material Features Comparison
Piping Features	Stainless Steel(Type 304L)	Mild Steel	Blue anodized Aluminum Alloy
Weight (Dia 6inch, Length 6m)	127.2	169.6	29.142
Corrosion Resistant	Yes	No	Yes(100%)
Pressure drop (Dia 2 inch Length= 20m,Airflow=3 cubic metres/Minute, Pressure=10 bar)	0.25	0.4 Bar	0.1
Energy Efficiency	High	Low-moderate	High( Potential Cost savings of 34%)
Mechanical Strength	Very Strong	Very Strong	Strong
High-Temperature Rating	Yes	Yes	Yes
Installation Ease	Less Difficult	Difficult	Easy(High Flexibility and Modularity)
Installation Time	Approx 6 feet length per hour	Approx 6 feet length per hour	Approx 45 feet Length per hour
Work Hours/Manpower Required for a 2″ pipe and a 3000 feet piping	Approx 600 man-hours/8 men for 2 weeks	Approx 600 man-hours/8 men for 2 weeks	Approx 100 man-hours /8 men for less than 2 days
Annual Cost(Installation, Commissioning, and operation)	Approx 3000 dollars	Approx 7820 dollars	Approx 1300 dollars
Installation Cost Material%/Labor%	30% / 70%	25% / 75%	80% / 20%
Surface roughness	0.03	0.05	0.001
Special Tools Required (welder, threader, groove cutter)	Yes	Yes	No
Air Quality	High(Should the application require it, these pipe systems can help meet the requirements of ISO 8573-1: 2010 air quality standards.	Low( Not according to !SO 8573-2010 air quality standards)	High(Should the application require it, these pipe systems can help meet the requirements of ISO 8573-1: 2010 air quality standards.
Cost per meter	Almost 2 less than Aluminum	3 Times less than Aluminum	163.64 Dollars(Parker Transair)
Life Span( Will vary according to environmental factors, Pipe design, and Pipe grade.	30 years	40 years	20 years
Initial Cost of installations	Material : 30% Labor:70%	Material : 25% Labor:75%	Material : 80% Labor:20%
Maintenance	Difficult(Accumulation of rust under pipes and fittings which travels to machinery, may require preventive maintenance every week)	Difficult (Accumulation of rust under pipes and fittings which travels to machinery may require preventive maintenance every 3-4 days)	Easy (No accumulation of rust, may require preventive maintenance every 4 Weeks)