Underground » Mining Technology and Production
The objective of this project was to design, manufacture and certify a flameproof enclosure that is suitable for housing 3D laser and video-based sensors underground within an explosive atmosphere. All of these objectives were achieved with the result being the Type 2550 Ex db Transparent Dome Flameproof Enclosure, bearing IECEx approved certification number ExTC 18.0023 and conforming to IEC 60079-0:2017 Explosive Atmosphere Standard Parts 0 and 1, and IP Code 66. Further, the enclosure accommodates the CSIRO ExScan® system, a 3D laser and video imagery payload designed to custom-fit the enclosure, with 10 working ExScan® systems having been deployed in various underground trials around Australia.
The project has built upon the outcome of project C21021, Full Panorama View (360o) Video and Laser FLP Enclosure, and has delivered a low-cost revision of that project's cylindrical flameproof enclosure, improving upon various capabilities and specifications detailed below:
- The Type 2550 enclosure now provides more than a full-hemisphere field-of-view. Where the C21021 enclosure had an opaque top cap and consequently a range-dependent, elevation-restricted view, the Type 2550 enclosure allows viewing to within a few centimetres of directly over-head, independent of range.
- The transparent dome component of the Type 2550 enclosure is produced by injection-moulding and hence dramatically reduces production costs whilst retaining strength to withstand required internal pressure limits and external impact events under the full standard's range of temperature, humidity and accelerated aging conditions. The dome has passed extensive certification testing.
- A compliance-assured optical coating is applied to the domes, also under the approved certification, which optimises the performance of 3D laser systems to reduce reflection loss, and hence increase the effective mapping range of the payload.
- The form factor of the enclosure base is customised for inverted installation onto a longwall roof support, permitting ready deployment in this important use-case.