Becker WMS 30CRF - Communications & Tracking Video

Federal approvals for underground mine communications and tracking systems under 30CFR Part 23 are flooding in, and more are expected in the short-term future. Becker Wholesale Mine Supply's skilled and experienced staff have revealed the main keys to consider when choosing the best device for a mine's needs.

"Every mine is different; no two operations are exactly the same," according to company executives and industry experts Bill Hensler and Joe DiBridge. "A system needs to be designed to meet each mine's individual characteristics."

Some primary factors to examine when treading through the waters of MSHA-approved mine-wide communications and tracking technology:

Comprehensive design. Yes, the system is capable of communications and tracking. But what about condition monitoring? Interfacing with a mine's proximity detection systems? Is the device "plug and play", allowing full everyday communications between the surface and underground personnel without the expense of additional products and time involved in getting the system to link up with existing infrastructure? All of these considerations play a role in the long-term success of any communications and tracking system. Plan not only for what the mine needs now, but also for what it may require in the future. With proximity detection and CH4-CO monitoring being the most significant new trends, they are two great examples of features mines should demand in their selected device.

Ease of installation. The harder a communications and tracking system is to install and use, the more hesitation the entire staff of a mine will have accepting it into the culture of everyday operations. "It can't be complicated," Hensler said, pointing to lengthy and complex training with some systems that can be a deterrent to correct and successful utilization by mine staff. Added DiBridge: "If a system is not user-friendly and consequently is incorrectly used -- or miners avoid using it at all, how has that technology done its job?"

Low maintenance or maintenance-free design. The most important feature to the maintenance backbone of any great communications and tracking system is remote diagnostic capabilities. Surface personnel monitor every aspect of the mine at all times, and the status of that system is just as important to safe operation as belt performance or the data which streams continually to portal office staff from the longwall panel. The less time that is spent maintaining a mine's communications and tracking system, the more cost-efficient the technology is for that operation -- and knowing in real-time when any performance issue arises is an invaluable tool.

A good warranty. Just like making a large personal-use purchase, having a good warranty plan on a mine's approved communications and tracking system provides peace of mind as well as needed support from the equipment manufacturer.
"The system needs to be backed by a two-year warranty," DiBridge said, noting that the 24-month window allows the chosen device to become fully engrained in the everyday toolbox of an operation. When negotiating a warranty, users should also inquire about software and hardware update availability during and after the warranty period as well as the OEM's level of service once that coverage has expired.

Aside from being comprehensive, the biggest key to choosing the right 30CFR Part 23-approved communications and high-reliability tracking system, according to Hensler and DiBridge -- its ability to provide everyday support of production and safety while still having the durability and flexibility to remain a mine's communication center in an emergency situation.

The biggest mistake any mine can make in their selection process is to make an uninformed or misinformed evaluation of the available federally-approved products.

"You need to make a good buying decision based on all of the above aspects," Hensler stressed. "You cannot buy on a concept. Your investment should be on a proven, tested system."

A front-row seat to the experience a communications and tracking system can provide is to see an installed device working in a similar environment. Some manufacturers have test and demo systems at active mines across the US, while others can arrange for mine officials to get a hands-on look at the infrastructure it is considering.

Another great option? Speak with the experienced staff of Becker Wholesale Mine Supply. Its team of industry experts can provide comparison illustrations of available systems and offer personal consultations with potential clients to determine the best solution for their specific mine.