Enhancing Mining Conveyor Safety With Intelligent Soft Braking Systems
Introduction
Anything can happen within the depths of a mine. While safety in the mining industry has increased significantly throughout the years, mining is still an inherently dangerous and risky field – especially in the world of copper. Mitigating those risks is of upmost importance, from employee safety protocols to advancements in technology that make the equipment safer and easier to run – advancements such as soft braking systems for mine conveyors. Soft braking systems and other technological advancements not only enhance safety, but also increase efficiency and productivity in mining operations. Additionally, continuous monitoring and maintenance of equipment plays a critical role in preventing accidents and ensuring miners’ well-being.
SOBO Systems in Action in a Chilian Copper Mine
In the field, Svendborg Brakes™ SOBO® systems have been proven to handle the large daily throughputs common in mining applications, while also ensuring safety and efficiency. In a large copper mine in Chile, Svendborg was tasked with equipping three downhill conveyors with advanced braking systems. These challenging conveyors, essential for transporting 5,000 tons of copper ore per hour, stretch up to 1600 meters in length and operate at speeds of 5.5 meters per second. Svendborg’s solution included the robust BSFH 520 caliper disc brakes, innovative SOBO controllers, and custom-engineered hydraulic power units, capable of managing all three conveyors at once. This solution not only ensures precise and reliable stopping power but also offers controlled deceleration to prevent damage to the conveyor system. The brakes, designed to apply up to 182,160 Nm of torque, allow for a smooth and controlled stopover 50 seconds, enhancing both safety and durability. This system also includes monitoring features for critical conditions such as oil level and temperature, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance. In case of power outages, the system’s emergency protocols activate automatically, stopping the conveyor within40 seconds to protect both the equipment and its cargo. This efficient use of generated energy not only supports the mine’s operations but also contributes to its energy.
Reflecting on SOBO's Impact & Vision for the Future
As part of the Regal Rexnord family, Svendborg’s leadership in controlled braking systems technology, combined with their dedicated teams of on-staff service technicians stationed in major mining centers, is unparalleled in the industry. Since its introduction in 1998, along with its evolution to the SOBO iQ, Svendborg Brakes SOBO systems offer controlled and gradual braking essential for the high loads and speeds of mining conveyors and has significantly improved safety and efficiency in the mining industry. Globally, SOBO systems are installed on some of the largest mining conveyors, showcasing their reliability and effectiveness. These advancements support the mining industry’s shift towards more automated and optimized processes, significantly boosting productivity and safety in challenging mining environments.
