The mining industry generates large volumes of highly abrasive and toxic dust particles annually, usually emitted during the excavation and processing of minerals. As the industry plays a big role in the advancement of multiple markets, dealing with the challenge is necessary to maintain US and global regulations.
This article will explore the various challenges the industry faces, along with ideal solutions to resolve them.
Dust Challenges in the Mining Industry
Due to the numerous factors regarding mining dust particles, dust control in the mining industry can be quite a challenge. Here are some major obstacles that mining facilities must face as part of their business:
High Dust Particle Volume
From excavation and gathering to transportation and processing of minerals and ores, every step of the mining process generates high volumes of dust. While mining plants already have dust collectors installed on critical sections; they usually collect thousands of pounds of mining dust hourly, quickly reducing the air filtration system’s service life.
Abrasive Mining Dust
Compared to other forms of dust, dust particles generated by mining facilities when grinding, crushing, and excavating minerals have more abrasive and heavier characteristics. This causes excessive wear and tear on machines used within the facility, the ductwork, and mining industry dust collection systems, requiring operators to spend more on repair and maintenance.
Toxic and Combustible Dust Particles
Aside from being more abrasive, mining dust is shown to contain dangerous elements like heavy metals and silica which are harmful to humans. Agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA have set standards on acceptable exposure limits, and companies must be obliged to stay in operation.
Then there’s also the combustibility of mining dust. Certain dust types, like those generated by coal, are prone to explosion when high levels build up in silos or conveyor systems. This can result in damage to property and potential harm to workers in proximity of the explosion.
High Regulation Requirements
As previously mentioned, OSHA has established benchmarks regarding the safety and well-being of employees working in mining plants. Aside from OSHA, there are other regulatory agencies in the US that mining operators need to comply with, among them the Mine Safety and Health Administration or MSHA and the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA. Failure to comply with their regulatory standards can lead to heavy fines and potential cancellation of licenses.
Mining Dust Control Solutions
Thanks to numerous advancements in dust collection technology, the mining industry has several options for mitigating the spread of dust particles in their facilities. In this section, let’s look at some viable solutions for efficient mining dust control in key parts of the mining industry.
Dust Collectors on Excavation Sites
Large open-pit mines, quarries, and underground operations are some of the main generators of mining dust. The process of excavating the minerals from the ground results in high volumes of mining dust, which can damage the equipment and be harmful to workers in the long run.
We highly recommend adopting the ‘source collection’ philosophy, where dust collectors are placed near the dust source. By drawing out the harmful dust particles upon generation, mining operations can reduce the spread of mining dust in the area. Just make sure the dust collectors are far from water and oil sources to extend the filter’s service life and performance.
Coarse and Fine Ore Processing Plant Dust Collectors
Another viable application of mining dust collection systems is in processing plants, as the grinding of these minerals results in dust generation. The finer the grinding process is, the more dust is created that can make its way to the machines and the worker’s body. This also applies to conveyors that transport the minerals and silos where they are stored.
As such, we highly recommend installing air filtration systems on processing plants and storage locations. Dust collectors in these areas draw the mining dust particles during the grinding process, as well as limiting their spreading while being transferred to their storage bins. Dust collectors also help contain the dust particles in silos and bins, reducing the risk of combustion.
How to Select the Best Mining Dust Collectors
Choosing the right dust collector setup for a mining facility plays a vital role in mitigating dust emissions and maintaining production standards. Here are some factors to help those looking for a reliable dust collector for mining facilities.
Find Filters that Match Mining Dust Types
The first point of consideration will be the type of mining dust the facility emits. Different minerals and ores generate a certain type of dust, each with properties that require specific filters to manage.
With this in mind, it’s important to study the characteristics of the dust particles emitted by the mining facility. This will help narrow the selection of dust collectors and filters you’ll purchase for the plant. Abrasive dust particles, for instance, will require air filters with higher durability to avoid damage when collecting these particles.
Consider Filtration Strength and Capacity
Another factor to look at is the dust collector’s filtration strength and the volume of dust it can handle. Mining facilities emit thousands of pounds of dust particles per operation, from excavation to grinding the materials into finer ores. As such, you’ll need air filtration systems that can manage high levels of dust in a short time and store them properly before disposal.
Design and Quality
The mining industry is a very demanding sector, with constant exposure to rough elements regularly. And with the rigorous activities in the industry, you’ll need mining dust collectors built to last. The design and quality of the air filtration systems must be able to handle the daily challenges of the field and can be easily installed in key facility locations.
Tysum Dust Collection Solutions for the Mining Industry
For more than two decades, Tysum has been the leading source of dust collection solutions for the mining and mineral processing sector. Designed by industry experts and manufactured using the best materials and components, our line of dust collectors and filters is intended to handle the increasing demands of mining fields. Our air filtration systems are also complemented with an assortment of filters that have a high tolerance to abrasion – ideal for filtering mining dust.
To guarantee their top performance, our dust collectors go through a series of inspections and tests. Handled by senior inspectors and in accordance with global regulations, our products must receive the Tysum stamp of approval before leaving our warehouse. This is your assurance that they meet standards set by OSHA, EPA, MSHA, and other regulatory agencies in the US.
More than a dust collector manufacturer, we provide several services aimed at elevating your sourcing experience. Our services include design customization, professional recommendations to enhance your dust collection, and setting up a demonstration to see their performance. Moreover, we also offer support and aftersales services, ensuring the dust collectors perform consistently for long periods.
Making the Mining Industry Safer and Compliant
The mining sector faces some serious challenges in regulating mining dust emitted during excavation, processing, and storing minerals and ores. Thankfully, the advancement of technology offers viable solutions in dust collection that are not only reliable but also efficient. Choosing the best mining dust collection systems requires considering important factors, like knowing the dust types generated and the construction of the air filters.
Contact the experts at Tysum for your mining dust control solutions today. We offer a range of mining dust collectors and filters designed specifically for your sector. We can also provide a free consultation to ensure you’re getting the best products. Let’s get started.
