Through-the-Earth Mine Communications: Signal Penetration of Personal Emergency Devices (PED)
Mining is a huge industry and a significant contributor to the Australian economy employing a total of 2.2% of the total labour force. With such a large labour force dedicated to mining alone, the Australian government has spared no expenses in ensuring that all employers provide adequate safety gear and equipment to their workers. As workers are often deep underground, optimal signal penetration is a must to ensure the signal can be received at any location in the mine. This article will explain how signal penetration for mining PEDs work.
The Use of Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) Communication Technology
Ultra low frequency (ULF) communication technology is fundamental to the signal penetration of PEDs. It relies on electromagnetic waves with a frequency range between 300 hertz and 3 kilohertz, as they can penetrate the earth. The PEDs are similar to smartphones in the sense that they are equipped with electrocompasses that are used to measure variations in the magnetic field.
The ULF is controlled by a magnetic field control module that is also connected to the internet. The magnetic field control module will regulate the signals received from the internet and from the high power transmission systems installed at the underground mining locations.
The Use of High Power Transmission Systems
ULF communication technology alone cannot send signals that penetrate deep underground. High power transmission systems, which are basically antennas, need to be installed to the ceilings, floors and walls of the underground mining workplace for the signals to be received properly by the PEDs. The antennas of the high power transmission system is responsible for generating magnetic fields when current flows through them, and sending unique location IDs to the PEDs and to the other communication devices.
The antennas act as a transmitter, and send and receive signals to the PEDs. Once again, the PEDs are set to detect the wavelengths of the ULF control module. There is no need for the PEDs to have dedicated hardware. As a result, there are many different types of devices with unique designs dedicated for different purposes.
Conclusion
Understanding how signal penetration for mining PEDs work is beneficial for both employers and employees. The more that you know about the equipment that you use and work with, then the safer you'll be should any emergency situations arise. For those working in mining positions underground, your PED is basically your lifeline. It is your only way of communicating with the outside world in an efficient and effective manner. To learn more about PEDs, contact an electrician from a company like Arrow Electrical Services.