News (December 01, 2001)

Heavy-duty belt cleaner removes worst carry-back

A new addition to the Eliminator belt cleaning systems from Flexco–the M-type precleaner for underground mines and worst-case above-ground applications–features a more massive blade that firmly shaves off thick, heavy, wet, clinging carry-back, serving mechanically fastened as well as vulcanized belts. While the robust blade design accommodates extreme conditions, a simple, compact mounting/tensioning system allows installation close against the head pulley within the discharge chute, to keep valuable material in the product stream while minimizing underbelt cleanup elsewhere.

PuriNOx fuel for cleaner air

PuriNOx Performance Systems provide an instant, economical solution to meeting tough operating restrictions on particulate matter, NOx emissions and smoke. By substituting this unique, low-emission fuel technology for commercial diesel fuel, both old and new equipment can immediately begin improving air quality.

The system was co-developed by the Lubrizol Corp. and Caterpillar Inc. It involves adding water to diesel fuel. The water promotes a finer, cloud-like atomization of the fuel mixture during injection. Combustion efficiency improves significantly, resulting in substantial reductions in particulates and nitrogen oxides.

Specialized chemistry completely encapsulates the water droplets, making the water blend fuel stable in storage for at least three months. The chemistry deters the water from contacting metal engine parts, making PuriNOx fuel as safe for engines as commercial diesel fuel. The system includes an additive package, a blending unit and the fuel. The unit can be leased or purchased.

Industrial cooperation between Volvo and Komatsu

Volvo Construction Equipment and Komatsu Ltd. have initiated discussions regarding future cooperation in the production and development of construction equipment components. Tangible outcomes from the discussions are expected by mid-2002.

The intention is to determine whether both companies can strengthen their cost-competitiveness and increase customer satisfaction. Sales, service, distribution and equity participation will not be included in the discussions. Both companies will remain as independent competitors using their own dealer networks, brands and identities.

Comprehensive control system for coal mining conveyors

Comprehensive control systems are now available for above- and below-ground conveyors in coal mining applications, backed by service and support from Rockwell Automation. The new custom-built control systems include Allen-Bradley ControlLogix controllers, Reliance Electric motors, Allen-Bradley PanelView operator interfaces, AC and DC drives, reducers and couplings, designed specifically for the harsh mining environment. Rockwell Automation also offers standard packages for main drive, booster drive and belt take-up winch systems, which are the most common underground conveyor applications.

This new conveyor control package is the first system supplied by a drive manufacturer that is specifically designed for the North American underground coal mine market. By consolidating partner resources, Rockwell Automation is able to offer a drive system that meets packaging requirements while increasing the scope and supply of products, simplifying maintenance and expanding the support and service available for coal mine conveyor applications.

DriverMax models for mining operations

Mirenco, Inc. of Radcliffe, Iowa, has announced a new mining model (DriverMax Model MM2001) of the patented DriverMax technology. DriverMax offers the most economical and cost-effective method of cutting diesel particulate matter (DPM) emissions available to mining operations today, as well as being completely complementary to the alternative solutions in the market.

The enclosed space of underground mining represents a unique segment of heavy-duty diesel equipment where the operators are subject to potential health risks from DPM. Mirenco has patented technologies that reduce emissions and eliminate excess fuel usage when drivers “step on the gas”.

Affordable laser level-measuring for bulk processors

K-TEK of Prairieville, La., has perfected an inexpensive laser level, distance and position transmitter that accurately measures bulk solids and opaque liquids under the harshest of conditions with unsurpassed accuracy. Offered in two models–the LMC4 and its more lightweight cousin, the LM02–K-TEK’s easily-mounted, power-efficient lasermeters bring the physical benefits of laser level measurement to an expanded range of industries, including mining, that seek an economical solution to measuring the contents of tanks, silos, hoppers, bins, mineshafts, mixing basins and tubs.

The laser wavelength is only 1 micrometer–as opposed to radar’s wavelength of more than 10,000 micrometers–so it has virtually no beam divergence and can measure to surfaces at an angle. Whether the material being measured is in a cone-up or cone-down position, the K-TEK Lasermeter still reliably determines the level of these uneven surfaces. Lasers far outshine ultrasound measuring devices, in particular, because lasers remain immune to false readings from ambient sounds, weather conditions, and the acoustic properties and surface topology of the material being tested. Unlike radar, laser beams are unaffected by the dielectric properties or angularity of the material.

K-TEK’s Lasermeters are easily programmed with a PC or palm pilot. They utilize Class 1 lasers, making them completely safe for the human eye.

Technology providers merge

Advanced Systems Integration, ASI, Australia’s leading provider of production automation and management systems, has merged with Maptek Pty. Ltd. MineSuite, the real-time production reporting system developed by ASI using the latest Java technologies, is configurable to a wide range of mining and milling applications. ASI’s GPS-based truck dispatch system delivers cost-effective plant monitoring and control using state-of-the-art technology. Maptek recognized the synergy between the two companies.

The expanded Maptek group will pursue technology outsourcing contracts for large mining houses who are demanding a packaged framework for handling their critical projects. The group has outlets in mining centres in North and South America, Australia, Europe and Africa.