Document Type
Conference Paper
Publication Date
2011
Abstract
Emergency underground coal mine communication networks are discussed. Emergency communication systems should continue to operate following an explosion, major fire, roof collapse, or water inundation without relying on internal batteries or underground mine power. Optical fibre cables support Ethernet communication networks and power underground communication devices are proposed. The results of some tests with power-over-fibre technology have confirmed that 40 mW to 35 mW of power can be made available over a 0.5 km to 1 km length of fibre optic core, respectively. This is sufficient to power an underground SMS or email device.
Publication Details
G. Einicke, D. Hainsworth, L. Munday and T. Haight, Optically-powered Underground Coal Mine Communications, 11th Underground Coal Operators' Conference, University of Wollongong & the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 2011, 189-196.