ABB
The SmartVentilation system is a complete solution to the challenge of providing fresh air and venting toxic gases from subterranean mines. It also minimizes energy use by ventilating only those areas of a mine that require it. The company estimates that this ability to work “on-demand” could reduce an operator’s electricity bill by up to half. The SmartVentilation system is divided into three “implementation levels” — SmartBasic, SmartMid and SmartPerfect. These give different degrees of control over the operation of the mine’s intake and exhaust fans. The fans and their drives come in modular form and are controlled with the company’s System 800xA automation platform. — ABB, Baden, Switzerland