Mining Publication: The Implementation of UHF Radio Communications and CCTV Monitoring Systems in a Room and Pillar Metal/Non-metal Mine

• Antennas
• Communications
• Crosscuts
• Nonmetal mining
• Radios
• Room and pillar mining
• Signalling

This report describes the design and implementation of UHF radio and closed-circuit television systems in the Black River room and pillar limestone mine near Butler, Pendleton County, Kentucky. Prior to designing the radio system, measurements of signal attenuation on 812 and 466 mHz were made in the slope tunnel and in the straight and level crosscuts in the mine. Two distributed antenna systems fed by two sets of base stations provide approximately 75 pct coverage of the mine. Passive reflectors were used for extending signals into intersecting crosscuts and two-way signal boosters will be used to extend signals to the perimeter and obstructed areas of the mine. Fourteen mine vehicles were equipped with mobile radios with digital identification, alarm, and status encoders. Fifteen portable transceivers also were used. Six closed-circuit television cameras provide surveillance of critical transfer points of the belt conveyor system, the loading dock at the base of the slope, and an ash disposal area in the mine. Two-way radio communication and closed-circuit television have saved considerable work hours, increased production, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced safety. Innovative developments were the use of passive reflectors and two-way signal boosters for extending signals into intersecting crosscuts, development of lightweight signal margin measuring equipment, modifications of mobile digital encoders to automatically send status information from mine vehicles such as numbers of loads of ore delivered, hot engine, etc., and the use of CATV technology for multiplexing audio, digital, and video signals from the surface to the mine.