MALVERN, PA — Rajant Corporation, in collaboration with Crossover Distribution, is revolutionizing communication in underground mining by introducing a robust network capable of supporting high-speed data, voice, and video functionalities. This groundbreaking initiative, demonstrated at the NORCAT Underground Centre in Sudbury, Ontario, will also be showcased at the upcoming MINExpo International in Las Vegas.
The core of this innovation is Rajant’s Kinetic Mesh technology, which serves as a singular network solution for multiple essential applications within the mining sector. Key features include real-time data transmission for tele-operations, micro-second time stamping for precise operations, and comprehensive monitoring systems for seismic activity and gas detection. The technology also supports telemetry, tracking, and emergency alerts, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency in mining operations.
Rajant’s Sales Director for Canada, Darrell Gillis, emphasizes the importance of integrating surface applications into underground environments. “Mines are looking for a solution to put surface applications underground,” he explains. “Without a high-speed network, you can’t do it. Simple Wi-Fi doesn’t work because it’s blocked by equipment or a single point of failure. Further, a big part of the Rajant solution for underground is having the BreadCrumb wireless nodes on the mobile equipment and extending or strengthening the network. If you can get that data off that machine in real-time would be a huge cost savings. You don’t need all the separate networks. This is one network for all.”
The introduction of this network addresses the limitations of traditional communication methods in mining, such as VHF radios. As noted by Crossover’s Executive Vice President Darin Gibbons, “A person walking around with a VHF radio can talk from the surface, or anywhere underground, throughout the network to a smartphone. What the Rajant network does, by extending that coverage into that part of the mine, is allow the worker to always be in contact and improve efficiencies because he’s not walking back periodically to talk back to the mine supervisor or other operations people. You get to use all these smartphone features underground where the workers are working.”
By implementing Rajant’s Kinetic Mesh, the mining industry can achieve significant cost savings and operational efficiencies. The network’s ability to provide consistent communication, regardless of location, allows for better coordination and safer work environments. This collaboration between Rajant Corporation and Crossover Distribution is set to redefine how mining operations are conducted, offering a more connected and efficient future for the industry.
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