CPS 600-150E electric portable air compressor for shotcreting application in underground mines
Strengthening tunnel walls for safe mining operations
Underground mines in Udaipur are a rich source of zinc ore deposits which is a widely consumed metal in the world. Underground tunnels are the main source of entry to reach this resource and therefore safety is of prime concern and is non-negotiable.
Seagull Mining & Constructions Pvt. Ltd., is an underground mining contractor, managing the shotcreting process in one such Udaipur zinc ore mine. Having used local diesel compressors, the shotcreting machine was not working efficiently as per the desired output.
Why is shotcreting so critical for underground tunnels?
With an enormous 6 to 8 km depth in underground mines, tunnels are the lifeline to reach the excavation sites for the targeted resource. Once drilled through, the tunnel walls need to be strengthened with concreting so that the tunnel walls do not cave in or shed loose rock onto operators. High performance concrete spraying with an efficient shotcrete machine powered by consistent air and pressure from a reliable electric compressor ensures continuous operations in one of the world’s toughest worksites.
The distance between the compressor and shotcrete machine is around 500 metres. We need to maintain this distance as there is a severe lack of space in underground mines. This would lead to an air flow and pressure drop which compromised on the shotcreting efficiency
The Chicago Pneumatic sales and dealer team worked closely with the customer and reviewed the underground worksite, demonstrating the need for a higher cfm and bar electric compressor, Chicago Pneumatic’s CPS600-150E model to counter the difficult working environment, where temperature, visibility and compressor performance can adversely impact the shotcreting machine output.
The CPS600-150E electric portable air compressor has delivered a high shotcreting output since July 2021 with low maintenance cost and zero emissions. Chicago Pneumatic electric portable compressors are partners with us in creating stronger tunnels to keep underground mining operations safe.