SANDVIK Mining and Construction and Pilz have developed the first ultra robust PSS control system, designed in accordance with the principles for integrated explosion safety suitable for use in underground coal mines.
Pilz explains that Sandvik Mining’s roadheaders which are used in underground mining, in particular to excavate coal, have rotating cutter heads on the front of the machine excavate the material which create a huge amount of dust. This dust can cause a dust explosion underground under certain circumstances.
Pilz says a water-based spray system on the machine is designed to prevent this by binding the dust particles and preventing excessive dust concentration in the air. It’s important that the spray system operates reliably while the cutter heads are in operation, so it must be permanently monitored.
Pilz says it modified an existing compact PSS control system with digital and analogue inputs to make it suitable for use in mining, in accordance with Sandvik's requirements. It’s called the “rugged version” of the PSS control system and is temperature-resistant as well as vibration-proof, naturally.
The PSS control system is installed on the roadheader in a flameproof enclosure, as the machine is located directly inside the potentially explosive area. It is available in either a compact or modular design and can be used on stand-alone machines through to extended plants.