Fibre optics technology for conveyor fires
Fibre optic DTS 34% cheaper than conventional fire detection systems
Mine conveyors – typically long and transporting material through terrain at varied incline, at high speed and in harsh conditions – have been difficult to protect from costly fires that put people, infrastructure and operations at risk. Traditional fire detection systems – relying on hundreds of conventional point heat detectors and smoke detectors – have struggled to perform, come at a very high capital cost, and require continuous maintenance.
A new era in fire protection offers a simple, cost-effective solution lead by cutting edge technology that addresses these challenges: a single fibre optic cable to provide the earliest and most accurate detection of abnormal heat build-up in real time as part of a maintenance-free system that is fully integrated into a mine site’s operational systems.
A recent technology comparison took into consideration the supply and installation of the Conventional Fire Detection Systems and Fibre Optic System on a 5-kilometre range. The results showed that the Fibre system is 34% cheaper than conventional ones in terms of supply and install. Additional savings are also realised on maintenance as the advanced system does not need maintenance after installed and doesn’t require installation of numerous devices, as one cable does it all.
Mining companies including Glencore and Harmony Gold are making use of this cutting-edge technology, protecting their people, operations and equipment with 24×7 fire detection and temperature monitoring.
“The system provides a faster response time to any potential fire risk. It is performing well to expectation.”
Edward Kennedy, CHPP Projects – Bulga Open Cut, a Glencore managed operation
- Easy install
- No maintenance
- Earliest detection capability
- Real time data
- Suitable for harsh environments
- Protected by high level cyber security
The DTS system represents the obvious choice for mining safety solutions that are robust, cost-effective and fit in with existing mine operations as well as being future-proofed for years to come.
Find out more at www.apapl.com.au or download our brochure.
