Location tracking GPS in mining

Satellite-based location tracking with GPS reduces the time surveyors need to spend in the field in vulnerable locations and enables the central control station to always know the location of each vehicle in the fleet. Continual tracking means that the location of vehicles can be constantly monitored, making it easier to track and record incidents, manage operations, and prevent hazards.

Collision avoidance and proximity alert systems may use GPS in addition to other tracking methods so that vehicles and personnel are always protected at any part of the mine, even if one tracking method fails. The collision avoidance system from PBE uses EM (electromagnetics), RFID, GPS and bi-directional radar for accuracy that can be configured to recognise different groups (such as vehicle types or personnel). The GPS receiver allows for surface tracking and defining site Geofencing.

Geofencing allows mines to set virtual perimeters, such as blast zones, emergency areas, no-go zones, and monitoring speed limits. Operators are able to monitor when personnel or vehicles enter various areas of a mine, as well as set up automated notifications for situations such as a worker accidentally entering a blast zone.

Underground GPS tracking

GPS has become more widely used for open-pit and surface mines. As GPS devices cannot receive direct line-of-site access to satellites underground, solutions such as leaky feeder communication systems and radio frequency identification (RFID) are typically used. Providing real-time tracking will usually involve using a redundant system, such as PBE’s collision avoidance system, that utilises GPS along with other technologies for full coverage.

Carroll Technologies is ideally positioned to provide custom installation of collision avoidance systems and offers factory-authorized repair and certification, as well as rapid response for mining emergencies, expert around the clock technical support, an extensive spare parts inventory, and training for equipment from major manufacturers.

For more information about collision avoidance systems or PBE equipment, call Carroll Technologies on 606-573-1000 or send an enquiry here.