Onsite Nitrogen Gas Generation in the Mining Industry

A common disaster in the mining industry is fire explosions. Fire explosions in mines are not only harmful to the workers, but they also pose a serious danger to the community and the company. Aside from the cost implications that can arise from the expenses incurred in firefighting efforts, property damage, production disruptions, and revenue losses, the company can be sued for environmental pollution.

For domestic fires, water, fire extinguishing powders, and other firefighting sources are commonly used, but they are not the best choice for mines because they can cause corrosion or damage to the electrical equipment in the mine.

Nitrogen gas, on the other hand, is an inert gas that can be used to extinguish fires easily without harm. Nitrogen gas generators can provide a consistent supply of nitrogen gas in mines. Nitrogen is an inert gas; hence it is also used to inert abandoned areas of mines to reduce the risk of explosion.

Common Applications of Nitrogen Gas in Mining Operations

Nitrogen gas is used for the following applications in the mine.

Fire Suppression

Nitrogen gas is utilized in fire suppression systems to extinguish fires quickly and effectively in mining equipment, electrical panels, and other areas prone to fire hazards. By displacing oxygen, it suffocates the fire and prevents its spread, minimizing damage and ensuring worker safety.

Inerting and Purging

Nitrogen gas is often used for inerting and purging purposes to create an oxygen-free or low-oxygen environment. This is crucial in preventing the risk of explosions, fires, and oxidation reactions in mining operations. It is commonly employed in underground mines, coal mines, and storage facilities to displace oxygen and reduce the flammability of the atmosphere.

Pressure Testing

Nitrogen gas is utilized for pressure testing pipelines, vessels, and other equipment in mining operations. It is often preferred over other gasses due to its non-reactive nature, which minimizes the risk of corrosion or contamination. Nitrogen is introduced into the system to detect leaks and ensure the integrity and safety of the equipment.

Dust Suppression

Dust control is a significant concern in mining operations due to health and safety hazards. Nitrogen gas is used for dust suppression by creating an inert atmosphere to prevent the ignition or explosion of dust particles. It is commonly employed in underground mining operations, particularly in coal mines, where coal dust poses a significant risk.

Benefits of Installing Onsite Nitrogen Gas Generators in Mining

The following are the advantages of installing nitrogen gas onsite for mining operations.

• Prevents Fire and explosion hazards in mining and tunnelling
• Inexpensive medium for inerting
• Prevents opportunities for corrosion and oxidation
• Incidents of critical leakage and rapid deflation are reduced
• Reduction in carbon emissions
• Elimination of hazardous nitrogen gas storage

Things to Consider when Implementing Onsite Nitrogen Gas Generating Systems for Mining Operations

• Evaluate the initial capital investment required to install the onsite nitrogen gas generation system.
• Determine the specific nitrogen gas requirements of the mining operation. Consider factors such as flow rate, pressure, and purity levels needed for different applications.
• Ensure that the onsite nitrogen gas generation system adheres to safety standards and regulations.
• Evaluate how the onsite nitrogen gas generation system will integrate with the existing infrastructure of the mining operation.
• Understand the maintenance requirements of the nitrogen gas generation system.
• Consider the environmental impact of the nitrogen gas generation system. Evaluate its energy efficiency, carbon footprint, and emissions.
• Ensure adequate training and education of the operators and maintenance personnel responsible for the onsite nitrogen gas generation system.
• Familiarize with local, regional, and national regulations pertaining to nitrogen gas generation, storage, and handling.

How Advanced Gas Technologies Can Provide Onsite Nitrogen Generators for the Mining Industry

It is a well-known fact that mines face a high risk of fire explosion, threatening the company and the workers. The best way to minimize this risk is by inerting the areas where no work is being carried out because the likelihood of fires and explosions occurring is reduced when oxygen is displaced. In the event of a fire, nitrogen gas generators can produce nitrogen to extinguish it quickly.

Installing a nitrogen generator in your mining site is a cost-effective nitrogen gas source. At Advanced Gas Technologies, we offer nitrogen gas generators that can produce nitrogen at the purity level needed for the mining industry.

Contact us today to get nitrogen generators installed in your mine or to learn more about how nitrogen generators can help reduce flammability and ensure the safety of your workers.