Evaluation of communication systems for deep level mining monitoring applications
Date
2011-09
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, Department of Industrial Engineering
Abstract
Deep level mining companies face many problems affecting their development and
profitability. One of these problems affecting growth is the lack of effective, yet
economically viable, communication systems. This is especially necessary in rapidly
expanding and changing environment mines. Resource companies need constantly growing
revenues to remain competitive in the current mining industry. This paper identifies the
constraints associated with applying communication systems in deep level mines, both the
constraints affecting the physical machinery as well as constraints affecting the labourers
installing, operating and maintaining the system. The existing communication systems are
identified and then critically evaluated. The evaluation is done by identifying the
advantages and disadvantages of each system, and by comparing the costs associated. The
constraints play a prominent role in the evaluation phase as certain technologies
immediately are discarded as possible selections when they clash with conflicting
constraints. The results of the evaluation process are used to determine possible solutions
with respect to communication problems faced in mining applications. Recommendations
are made on the most efficient and cost effective technologies according to the results.
These recommendations are used by mining companies to improve their current
communication systems.
Description
The original publication is available at http://www.isem.org.za/index.php/isem/isem2011
Conference of the ISEM 2011 Proceedings, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 21 - 23 September 2011.
Conference theme - Innovative Systems Thinking: Unravelling Complexity for Successful Solutions
Conference of the ISEM 2011 Proceedings, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 21 - 23 September 2011.
Conference theme - Innovative Systems Thinking: Unravelling Complexity for Successful Solutions
Keywords
Mining companies, Mining industry, Communication systems in deep level mines, Communication systems
Citation
Van Wyk, P. J. J., Oosthuizen, G. A. & Conradie P. J. T. Evaluation of communication systems for deep level mining monitoring applications. Presented at the ISEM 2011 Proceedings, September 21-23, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.