Wireless Mining Communications Systems

Wireless Mining Communications Systems

Eaton’s underground wireless mining solutions deliver fast, reliable, and uninterrupted communication - meeting high data transfer demands and strict Ex compliance standards.

Designed for harsh mining environments, our systems ensure seamless connectivity to enhance safety, productivity, and operational efficiency.

Wireless Mesh Network Solutions

Underground mines, shafts, and tunnels are among the most challenging environments for deploying wireless network systems. The requirements for connectivity and data transfer rates are high, but the layout of mines limits the range of wireless signals.

Eaton FHF-BT offers cutting-edge communication and automation solutions tailored for the mining industry. With full support and extensive know-how from our partner, Rajant Corporation, its patented Kinetic Mesh® technology is integrated into our systems to ensure seamless and reliable connectivity.

The Wireless Mesh Network Solution provides mission-critical video, voice, and data communications across the mine with multi-radio high-speed connectivity, outperforming traditional radio and leaky feeder systems for unparalleled reliability. This is achieved by connecting multiple mesh repeaters, creating a dynamic, resilient, and scalable communication system.

For harsh and hazardous areas, we designed a certified solution with explosion protection to the highest international standards.

Therefore, this solution can cover the complete communication network of facilities, both underground and above ground, combining industrial solutions and explosion-proof solutions as per the customer requirements.

Features & Benefits

Mesh uses make-before-break technology and provides seamless connectivity
The mesh network maintains multiple simultaneous connections to enable smooth transitions when one or more mesh repeaters are within range
A mesh repeater can use multiple frequencies and hardwired connections to provide robustness and redundancy
Completely transparent on an Ethernet network
Each repeater optionally provides a standard Wi-Fi connection for non-mesh devices
Integrated Wi-Fi Access Point for customers’ devices

All mesh repeaters ensure redundant communication within the mesh network
System extensions are easy to implement, and dead zones that are not covered by radio technology are easy to fix
The system supports high bandwidth for data, voice, and video applications
Features self-configuring operation for fast and easy expansions

Industrial Solution

It is suitable for IIoT markets like mining, seaports, airports, oil & gas, utilities, solar, wind, smart cities, public safety, and underground structures.

Explosion Proof Solution

In addition to underground mining, shafts, and tunnels, the solution is suitable for industrial installations in oil & gas and chemical facilities, depending on the requested certification requirements.

MR90 Wireless Mine Radio System

Eaton’s FHF-BT MR90 Wireless Radio system offers a comprehensive shaft radio solution for voice and data communication, featuring multi-channel operation specifically designed for underground mining.

The MR90 system ensures seamless communication between a fixed surface station and mobile stations on cages or skips.

Features & Benefits

Consistent signal coverage from the leaky cable connecting directly to the fixed station and extending along the full communication path
Vehicle stations and transceivers link up to the main station using antennas and a leaky feeder cable for uninterrupted coverage
Smooth, trouble-free operation even in tough conditions, with reliable performance up to 5 meters between the mobile antenna and the leaky feeder cable
Clear voice communication from specially designed microphones and loudspeakers
Boosts radio network coverage to 10km with the amplifier station, extending beyond the 2.5km non-amplified limit
Ex and non-Ex functionality
Performs exceptionally well in underground roadways and shaft solutions, up to extreme depths

Up to 21 channels available
Self-correcting data protocol
Up to 64 DI/DO; 16 Analogue transferable inputs
Automatic controllable transmit power
Multiple serial data communication interfaces available (Profibus-DP, Ethernet, TTY, Modbus)
Multiple antennas available: rope and pole antenna, leaky feeder
Long-distance coverage in underground roads with a remote-powered line amplifier
Meets high safety standards with approval from the German government authority (Bezirksregierung Arnsberg)
Streamlined operations with multiple systems within a single shaft

Mine Automation & Monitoring Systems

Mine Shaft Signaling & Loading Systems

Mining Safety, Security & Communications Systems

Get in touch to discover which mining systems or devices are right for your project. Email us: FHFBT-sales@eaton.com

Discuss your application

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