How extreme weather impacts compressed air systems in mining

• Rain and humidity: Heavy rain and high humidity can let too much moisture into the compressed air system. This can cause corrosion, poor air quality, and damage to pneumatic tools.

• Storms and outages: Severe weather can interrupt power supply, affecting air compressors that rely on electricity. Without a stable power source, mining operations may experience downtime, impacting productivity and profitability.

• Size for peak heat: Ensure compressors and blowers are rated for the highest expected ambient temperatures.
• Account for motor derating: High temperatures reduce motor efficiency – select appropriately rated equipment that compensates for this.
• Ensure adequate air supply: By sizing for peak temperature conditions, you can avoid drops in airflow. This helps keep important processes in your mining operations running smoothly.
• Enhance cooling: Hot air, especially at high altitudes, has lower cooling capacity. Upsize coolers to maintain performance year-round.

• Control dew point: Match air dryer specs to the lowest ambient temperature to prevent freezing.
• Use oil heaters: In frigid conditions, oil viscosity increases, making startups harder. Oil heaters ensure smooth operation and protect components from excessive wear.

• Install indoors: Housing compressors in dedicated, climate-controlled rooms protects them from rain and humidity. By keeping equipment indoors, mining operations prevent rainwater infiltration, which can corrode components and reduce efficiency.
• Stable environment: Keeping equipment inside helps maintain steady temperature and moisture levels. This reduces the chance of condensation in air lines.
• Improved longevity: Equipment kept in a controlled environment wears out less. This lowers maintenance costs and makes it last longer.

• Rain protection kits: If you cannot install your equipment in a conditioned room, use rain protection kits. These kits shield compressors and blowers from direct water exposure and help protect electrical components.
• Heaters for cold weather: In low temperatures, heaters stop moisture from freezing in air lines. This helps keep things running smoothly and prevents blockages.

• Invest in backup power solutions: Generators and alternative energy sources, such as battery storage or renewable energy systems, keep operations running during outages.
• Implement redundant systems: Running multiple compressors in parallel provides flexibility during power issues. If one fails, others can keep operating.
• Monitor power quality: Installing power quality monitoring systems can detect fluctuations early, allowing for corrective actions before disruptions occur.

• Understand restart behavior: Investigate how compressors and blowers act when power goes out. Some systems restart automatically, while others need a manual reset.
• Mind stop/start limits: Technologies like air foil bearings are more affected by power outages as they have a minimum and maximum number of stops per hour.
• Ensure backup compatibility: Make sure your system works seamlessly with backup generators or battery solutions.
• Plan for safe shutdowns: Ensure a controlled shutdown of sensitive equipment to avoid damage or excessive wear when power goes out.

Extreme weather is unpredictable – but your compressed air system doesn’t have to be. With the right setup and smart planning, you can keep your mining operations running smoothly, no matter the forecast.