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ABSTRACT
A number of successful proof-of-concept projects have been carried out to replace conventional power application, such as diesel and rechargeable batteries, in underground mine vehicles. This has led to the development and testing of the world's first fuel cell production vehicle, a mine locomotive. A fuel cell loader is being built and tested.
This paper provides an insight into other projects that are being carried out. Some are related to further underground applications, and some to further research, such as refueling options, power plant durability, and vehicle automation.
Also outlined is an evaluation of the overall mining applications and advantages this technology can bring to underground mining, including the facilitation of automation and tele-remote operation.
KEYWORDS: Fuel cell applications, Underground mining, Automation, Tele-remote operation.
Paper reviewed and approved for publication by the Maintenance/Engineering Division of CIM.
Introduction
Several proof-of-concept projects have been established by Vehicle Projects LLC, the managing contractor for the Fuelcell Propulsion Institute, a U.S.-based international consortium dedicated to establishing fuel cell power as a viable alternative to current power sources in undergound mining vehicles, as an alternative to harmful underground diesel emissions, to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to supporting improvements in productivity. The initiative has regrouped experts from the mining industry, fuel cell power plant developers, mining equipment manufacturers and regulatory agencies.
The initiative to date has successfully shown that:
* Fuel cells can sustain the dust, gas, and shock and vibration conditions existing in underground mines.
* Power plants for mine vehicles can be built for successful, risk-free operation in underground conditions.
* The world's first fuel cell mining vehicle, a locomotive, has a longer production cycle than its conventional battery version, and an equal production rate.
* Safe and successful refueling of the power plant storage, the hydride bed, has been achieved on surface with the use of bottled hydrogen and an electrolysis plant. Swapping of hydride beds to minimize refueling times has been established as an option, although consideration of mine operation efficiency must be reviewed.
* Fuel cells produce no harmful emissions and will have considerable economic impact on reduction of costly ventilation, even at great depths, where they will generate less heat than diesel engines.
The momentum for providing...