THE FUTURE OF COAL MINING: WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE INDUSTRY, AND BIT SERVICE, MOVING FORWARD
By: Scott Bahr
This past year has gotten everyone thinking about the future more than usual, so we thought it would be fitting to dedicate an entire article to the future of coal mining. Specifically, where we see the industry heading and how Bit Service fits into that formula.
These days especially, the future of coal mining for the thermal and energy generation has been scrutinized much more closely due to the growing desire to promote sustainable and renewable energy sources. You could even say that it has been placed under somewhat of a microscope, with little wiggle room for anyone seen as wasteful, especially when technological advances are leaving us fewer excuses not to become more eco-friendly.
In many areas of the world, such as our area in Saskatchewan, the technology employed to reduce emissions and improve the efficiency of the process has made great strides, with companies taking drastic steps to align their output and standards with recommendations. This proactive response to better embrace the changing winds toward more conscious practices has gone a long way to extending the life of the industry.
BIT SERVICE’S COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF COAL MINING
We can only expect that as we move forward into the future of coal mining, the demand for the incorporation of more eco-friendly practices from operators and consumers will only be heightened. By extension, the demand for more and more technology to make this a possibility will also increase exponentially.
Bit Service is committed to keeping in step with the evolution of coal mining, which has already embraced many technological advances. One example is SaskPower’s Carbon Capture Technology.
Emissions is the big step towards sustainability and a tangible variable which answers the call from the communities and regulators alike. Internal to the process is the concern of material loss and respirable dust generated by the material handling process of the coal itself. We have also dedicated ourselves to the increased efficiency and sustainability of processes by eliminating waste and spillage from our client’s material handling system. Specifically, Bit Service works with power producers and mine operators by reducing and eliminating spillage and dust generation from conveyor belts and belt transfer points.
Another point of pride for Bit Service on this front is our current partnership with Starclean, designers, and manufacturers of the world’s leading belt scrapers and transfer point seals. With the help of their excellent products, we are able to do our part in helping reduce material loss in the handling systems of mining and power generating facilities.
Bit Service is acutely aware of how important environmental sustainability already is to the industry, and we know that this importance will only grow. Currently, dozens of workers are employed across our province to ensure that operations meet or exceed environmental standards and limits.
Mining in Saskatchewan already has a substantial resource output, an impact on the economy, and champions sustainability and safety practices. As a Saskatchewan-based producer, Bit Service is proud to be a part of such a highly productive and innovative industry, and we are excited to see where the future of mining takes the province. We’re getting on board.
If you are as excited as we are about what is coming and want to confidently meet the future of coal mining with every resource at your disposal, a wealth of knowledge, and expert support in your arsenal, contact us today. We’re here to help you on your way forward.