Deployable Fiber Optic Systems for Harsh Mining Environments

In subterranean mining operations, access to communication networks deep underground is critical for transporting data, voice, and video, and other supporting applications that are essential for efficient and safe operations.

Whether accessing sophisticated ERP or Maintenance Management Systems, engaging in fleet management, video surveillance, or access control, or protecting miners with wireless locator systems, these networks serve as a literal lifeline between workers

Many industrial companies are converting to fiber optics as the costs for components continue to drop, making fiber a better solution than copper in most applications.

For this, mining networks require more than permanently installed network cabling, it also requires unique deployable systems designed for quick installation, extension and even relocation as the active mine site area moves, or equipment is moved in and out.

Duct water-blocking drop cable

Ruggedized Fiber Optic Systems

Given the increasing bandwidth requirements and concerns about electromagnetic interference (EMI), fiber optic cable is quickly replacing the more traditional choice, copper. Designed to survive the rigors of a mining environment, this extremely ruggedized cabling can withstand everything from dust and debris to chemical exposure, temperature extremes, radiation, electrical power transients, interference, fire, moisture, humidity, water, crush, tension, flexing, impact, and vibration.

The fiber optic cable, however, is only a component of a complete, deployable system.  Other key elements include hardened cable jacketing; “genderless” connectors for quick deployment without regard for male or female ends; and hybrid options that include copper along with fiber to provide power for underground Wi-Fi networks.

Hybrid Cables, Connectors

For applications that can benefit from fiber optics and copper, hybrid cables offer both within the same cabling sheath.

A distinct advantage of a hybrid cable-connector solution is that the customer can bundle both the high performance of fiber with the copper power or control signal in one cable. This reduces the number of cables that must be designed, purchased and deployed into a system.

Hybrid cabling also facilitates installation of wireless access points underground.

Unlike traditional wireless networking devices that require 110-Volt AC power for each device, with a hybrid system 12vdc or 48vdc power can be supplied in the same cable to power wireless routers, as well as other electronic devices.

As a result, certified devices are able to communicate throughout the network, including devices such as VOIP devices IP Cameras.

This provides personnel, even deep within mines, with the means to communicate with each other and even make calls outside the mine.

Wireless systems also play a key role in providing post-accident miner locator tracking and two-way communications, a requirement of the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006.

Some of the available tracking systems involve small, wearable radio frequency identification (RFID) locator tags that can be attached to miners or a piece of equipment.  These tags communicate with wireless access points or nodes placed in strategic locations throughout the mine to pinpoint their location.

Sopto supplies a wide range of fiber optic cables, like Outdoor Non-metallic armored cable, Waterproof Outdoor Fiber Optic Cable and cable tools and so on. For the newest quotes, please contact a Sopto representative by calling 86-755-36946668, or by sending an email to info@sopto.com. For more info, please browse our website.