Peak Gold

PEAK GOLD MINE VDV LEAKY FEEDER SYSTEM ENHANCES MINE OPERATION

MINE: PEAK GOLD MINE
OWNER: RIO TINTO AUSTRALIA
TYPE: UNDERGROUND GOLD
LOCATION: COBAR, NSW, AUSTRALIA

BACKGROUND

As part of Peak Golds’ continued efforts for improved productivity a decision was made to expand two way communications into the main underground working areas. Existing mine communications were via telephones and PED Pager system. The leaky feeder was designed to complement these systems, particularly taking into account the broad, but one way only, coverage given by the PED system. The VDV Leaky Feeder is now an essential part of the mine’s management infrastructure. The direct communication between individuals underground, the efficient transfer of data and the productivity & safety benefits in co-ordinating transport, etc are constant benefits received from a reliable leaky feeder system.

COMPOSITION

Transmission System with 9.5km underground leaky coax cable. Surface coverage provides approx 20km radius around the site. VDV Headend complete with 16 Eclipse repeaters and a RFI 11 channel combiner. 20 x Motorola HT-1000 Hand Helds. 49 x Motorola GM 300 Mobile Radios.

DESCRIPTION

The system consists of 9.5kms of leaky feeder split between 11 levels. The 16 channel system consists of 8 voice, 5 data, 1 emergency, 1 Ground to Air, and 1 spare channel. The VDV System also incorporates digital signalling between mobile & portable equipment.

JUSTIFICATION

Peak justified the system on the productivity advantages to be gained by better two way communication in the main working areas of the mine. Apart from better management of personnel & equipment, the easier transfer of data around the mine by the VDV system has allowed the benefits of the existing monitoring system to be more efficiently realised.