WATER CARTS - THE UNSUNG HERO OF THE COAL MINING INDUSTRY

The challenges presented by dust from coal mining activities is well understood. When inhaled, coal dust is a proven carcinogen and a cause of lung disease. When mixed with gas, atmospheric coal dust creates a potential explosion hazard, and it also presents equipment maintenance challenges through premature wear and breakdowns. 

OPEN-CUT MINES PRODUCE 80% OF AUSTRALIA COAL

Australia is the 4^th largest coal producer in the world and is responsible for 6.2% of global coal production. There are approximately 400 coal mines in Australia and nearly 80% of coal is produced from open-cut mines in contrast with the rest of the world, where open-cut mining only accounts for 40% of coal production. 

Types of atmospheric particles include suspended particulate matter designated as PM₁₀ which are coarse particles with a diameter of 10 microns or less and fine particles, designated PM_2.5 with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less. 

During the extraction, transport and processing of coal in surface mining operations, significant amounts of airborne respirable dust can be generated. 

MINE HAUL ROADS PRESENT PARTICULAR CHALLENGES

While there are rigorous safety standards to reduce the risks associated with coal dust, mine haul roads are particularly challenging. 

“Mine haul roads are generally dirt roads and sustain continuous heavy vehicle traffic,” EPA acting chief executive Mark Gifford said “Dust generated from haul roads within the mines is the biggest source of fine dust particles on most mine sites, contributing about 40 per cent of total emissions. When it is windy and dry, this [overburden] dust is more likely to leave mine sites, so tighter control is needed at these times,” Gifford said. 

WATER CARTS ARE ESSENTIAL TO DUST CONTROL

Mine roads need to be constructed and maintained to optimise the transfer of material from the point of production to processing facilities while minimising the creation of airborne dust, and one of the unsung heroes of the mining industry is the water truck. The water truck (or water cart) is essential for compaction and dust suppression on mine roads. 

ENGINEERED-FOR-PURPOSE WATER CARTS

Shermac will work with you to establish your strategic, operational, and budgetary requirements to build the ideal water cartage vehicle or fleet that saves you time and money. Shermac water carts are engineered -for-purpose, optimising productivity, utilisation and effectiveness while minimising operational risk for our customers. 

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