Mining Industry

The mining industry requires a range of mechanical ventilation (fans and blowers) such as explosion proof confined space blowers for areas that may be more encapsulated, and explosion proof utility fans for more open areas to provide ventilation and/or to exhaust and remove potentially dangerous fumes, gases and dust. This type of an environment is known as an Hazardous Location, and can be life threatening to the workers that are doing their jobs within these types of environments. Explosion proof high velocity fans can be used to blow air into or through tunnels, ducts and other underground passages. A ventilation axial fan can be used in conjunction with discharge or exhaust configurations. In other cases, axial and centrifugal fans can be added to applications involving drilling and/or digging, as well as for conveying extracted or residual material elsewhere on the property. 

The Ideal Fan for the Mining Industry

Unlike many other sectors, the mining industry requires that the equipment used is to be heavy duty in design. The ideal venting fans, such as explosion proof mancooler fans and explosion proof evaporative cooler fans, used within this industry are no exception. Flanges that are welded, for example, help ensure that the fans can withstand the harsh conditions while still delivering reliability.  The mancooler type fans are deisgned to blower air over long distances, while the evaporative cooler type fan is deigned to cool the atmosphere they are placed in by running the air from the fan through a water soaked pad.

Galvanized finishes, corrosion resistant materials and painting processes that can last throughout severe conditions are other things to look for. These will provide protection for the fan and its components against the corrosive environment. 

Only high quality fans and blowers will be able to withstand the wear, tear and excessive use that is part of the daily routine in the mining industry. In an environment that is already filled with noise pollution, blowers and fans need high efficiency silencers so they don't add to it. Flange connections that are welded, dampers and the right impeller balancing help reduce vibrations that can cut into their effectiveness and could even make them hazardous. 

Why Explosion Proof Fans are Necessary

The conditions within the mining industry are fraught with hazards. One of the most devastating is the possibility of an explosion due to the dust, gas and fumes that are present. To protect both staff and materials, it's imperative that only explosion proof fans and blowers are used. 

Typical Applications for Fans Usage in the Mining Industry

While every mining operation and company within the industry is different, to a certain degree they have the same typical applications for fans and blowers. Some of these include the processing of minerals, the conveyance or pneumatic transport of material from the field, for example, to a building or holding facility and to cool machinery. Other uses could be in conjunction with tunnel and mine ventilation systems, for filtering systems used to process materials, to extract flammable or toxic gases and as part of a system that exhausts duct and tunnel gases. Dust control, as well as other forms of pollution control, can help reduce the likelihood of sparks and fire. 

Explosion proof lighting is a component that is also required during each mining operation. Designed with the same high quality materials, ruggedness and longevity as explosion proof fans and blowers, the expert staff at Industrial Fans Direct can help you find the lighting and fan solutions you need. We're The Air Movement Specialists At Your Service! Simply call us at 866.727.1060 today for more information.