COAL MINING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS

By: Scott Bahr

These days, the coal mining industry (typically as it relates to power generation) are under a magnifying glass. Filled with greater awareness about the environment and a growing sense of responsibility for the stewardship of our Earth’s resources, consumers are demanding sustainability in every area of their lives.

This demand, and the coinciding commitment to support companies with eco-friendly practices, extends to the coal mining and coal fired power production industries. What’s more, not only are consumers demanding sustainability from manufacturers in the industry, but they are equally concerned with the eco-friendliness of every link along the entire supply chain as well. This means that from the moment the material is first discovered and mined to when it eventually arrives in whatever form as a product for them to purchase, consumers are watching and are holding us all accountable.

As we face the future, not only in the coal mining industry but throughout the world as a whole, we see that this growing demand for sustainability will characterize the future. Fortunately, there have been some promising environmental improvements in the coal mining industry

REDUCTION OF POLLUTANTS

Ever since the Clean Air Act and The Clean Water Act have required industries to reduce pollutants released into the air and water, the coal mining industry has been working on finding ways to reduce sulphur and other impurities from coal. In the process, we’ve found better ways of cleaning coal post-mining, thus providing consumers the option to use low sulphur coal.

One example of measures being taken is power plants utilizing flue gas desulfurization equipment, more commonly called “scrubbers,” to clean sulfur from the smoke before it leaves their smokestacks. Specifically designed equipment that successfully reduces SO2, NOx, and particulate matter is even being used to reduce mercury emissions from some types of coal at the moment as well.

Further progress is being made daily to tackle the issue of carbon dioxide emissions from coal combustion. One particularly promising method of accomplishing this is through carbon capture. At Bit Service, we proudly support SaskPower’s Carbon Capture Technology.

ECO-FRIENDLY EQUIPMENT

One way that mining companies can strive for greater sustainability is by switching to more eco-friendly equipment. For instance, opting for mining equipment powered by batteries can replace the need for diesel in many scenarios. Another option is swapping out diesel engines for more eco-friendly electric engines whenever possible. There is a major trend in veering toward all things electric in the mining industry, with an increasing number of manufacturers offering more eco-friendly options for equipment. One such manufacturer, Epiroc, even “aims to offer its complete range of underground mining equipment as battery electric versions by 2025.”

Another route that we see mining companies take for greater sustainability is by upgrading their equipment arsenal to more advanced, durable models that will last longer and eliminate the need for constant upgrading and turnover (read: unnecessary use of resources).

Bit Service is currently focusing on helping our clients reduce their energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient conveyor systems from ULMA Conveyor Components. Much overlooked past the design stage is the implementation of conveyor rollers in the bulk handling system with minimal rolling resistance. ULMA takes this a step further with their ultra-low TIR rollers, as well as internal vibration dampening system which not only minimize generated noise but the reduction in vibration help minimize fines spillage from the belt.

We are thrilled to look around us and see the mining industry moving in the right direction— full steam ahead—toward sustainability. We are dedicated to helping power that movement by doing our part to support sustainability and incorporate best practices to propel us forward into a bright and sustainable future, together.

To learn more about Bit Service and explore how we can help you with your specific needs, contact us today.