Becker Mining SA – specialist in safety, energy distribution and communication solutions for the mining sector – continues to consolidate its position as a leading supplier of underground communication technologies. The company’s technologically advanced Smartcom® VHF leaky feeder system is engineered for dependable performance in harsh mining environments.
Becker Mining’s Smartcom VHF leaky feeder system provides clear, reliable communication in underground mining operations.
“Designed to deliver multiple simultaneous voice and data radio channels with minimal intermodulation noise, the Smartcom system has proven its value in mining operations where safety and continuous communication are important,” says Rick Jacobs, Senior General Manager: Mechanical, Becker Mining SA. “Mines are usually remote from major cities and established infrastructure, which makes access to communication specialists and services difficult. The robust Smartcom VHF leaky feeder system, which has been installed in mines globally and throughout Africa, is known for dependable performance and requires little maintenance.
“In the mining sector, reliable and clear communication systems are critical – especially in hazardous underground conditions. The Becker Smartcom VHF leaky feeder system incorporates advanced technological features that ensure reliability, flexibility and low maintenance needs, enhancing safety in a challenging industry. Seamless integration during system upgrades and replacements, as well as a low total cost of ownership, are also important factors.
“We understand that one standard system does not meet the specifications of every installation, which is why we design our leaky feeder systems to suit size of mine and customers’ respective requirements and budgets constraints. The Smartcom VHF system’s modular design allows easy tailoring to site-specific requirements. Amplifiers are available with manual and automatic gain control, and local or remote diagnostic functionality can be incorporated.
“The forward-pilot-based automatic gain mode eliminates the need for a return pilot signal, reducing system noise and the chance of communication failures, especially in the event of cable damage or pilot loss. This intelligent gain adjustment improves reliability and reduces operational overheads.
“Customers have conveyed their satisfaction with the system and this is attributed to ease of installation, minimal maintenance and low operating costs,” says Jacobs. “For us these are key objectives when we design our products.”
Smartcom VHF leaky feeders are designed to provide for a technology upgrade path – from low-cost basic installations to advanced configurations using various trunking technologies. The system supports various voice and data channels over extended distances. High RF gain amplifiers facilitate wider spacing between units – typically up to 500 metres – helping to reduce the number of components and installation costs.
The system’s support for both analogue and digital radio repeaters ensures compatibility with existing infrastructure, while offering a migration path to more advanced digital systems. To enhance safety underground, a missing-person location system can be integrated via two-way radio, Bluetooth, LTE and Wi-Fi systems. Integration with SCADA and HMI systems further extends functionality into process control and automation, enabling remote control of ventilation fans, pump motors and cavitation systems.
Remote diagnostics
Becker’s RNG-AMP and BSC-AMP amplifiers can transmit system data, such as dc line voltage, downstream RF power and gain control settings, via a web interface to surface-based operators. This capability simplifies fault identification and reduces downtime by enabling technicians to locate and diagnose issues before physically entering the mine.
The system’s in-line data capabilities, which form part of the upgrade path, include a 150 In-Line Data Module (UIDM) that connects to the leaky feeder network. This module ensures low mainline loss and provides a serial connection to an onboard serial (UART) device. The connected serial device is powered through the IDM, and one external antenna port is provided for tag reader functionality. The Smartcom 150 UIDM works in conjunction with the Surface Data Module VSDM-150WW# to provide an Ethernet connection at the head end.
Fit-for-purpose solutions
The availability of upgrade kits means Smartcom installations can be adapted to meet changing operational demands. The kits can be deployed on site without the need to return equipment for modification. Optional telemetry and tag reader modules can be added, offering extended capabilities such as resource tracking and environmental monitoring.
Becker Mining South Africa also offers a full range of power supplies to withstand challenging underground mining conditions. The entire system carries a two-year warranty covering components and workmanship.
The company’s broader, comprehensive product portfolio complies with stringent government mining regulations and mining house specifications. Additionally, Becker Mining’s highly skilled engineering and installation teams offer technical advisory, installation, repair and on-site maintenance services throughout Africa.
For more information visit: www.becker-mining.com