DYWI^® Polymer Rock Dust System enhances Safety and Productivity in Underground Mining

Improving the application of inert rock dust to reduce the risk of coal dust explosions has become a central topic in underground mining in the last few years. The efficient reduction of respirable dust concentrations in the mine atmosphere is another important issue, as respirable dust can cause health problems.

In order to meet these requirements, DSI Underground Systems Inc. USA has widened its product range by the addition of the DYWI^® Polymer Rock Dust System, which has been developed by DSI and is now successfully used in underground coal mining.

The performance of the new system aides customers in meeting the current requirements of MSHA (Mining Safety Health Administration) in terms of inert rock dust application in underground coal mining and also reducing respirable rock dust in the mine atmosphere.

The DYWI^® Polymer Rock Dust System combines wet dusting technology and polymers to ensure the effective application of inert rock dust along with reducing respirable dust. The system can be applied at rock dust thicknesses of a range between approx. 0.5mm and 40mm (0.02"- 1.6") and typically dries within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the mine air velocity and humidity.

The compact size of the equipment ensures that it can be easily transported in underground mines using standard means of transportation such as wheel loaders or overhead monorail systems.

The DYWI^® Polymer Rock Dust System can be easily operated by two people and the coal surface can be sprayed during continuous shift operation. A typical batch operation provides approx. 75m (250ft) of roof and rib coverage, depending on mine height and width.

The hydraulically powered air compressor provides 30%-50% more coverage per batch by improved dispersion of the product via the air assist spray nozzle.

Advantages of the DYWI^® Polymer Rock Dust System:

• easy to batch and spray

• quick troubleshooting

• one stop shop service for the concentrate and application equipment (DSI is the manufacturer of the equipment)

• operating at low pressures improves application and end user safety

• patent pending system

• approx. 75m (250ft) of roof and rib coverage in only 15 - 20 minutes

• aides customers in meeting current requirements for rock dust application in underground coal mining

• dusting operations can be carried out while the production unit is under operation – no shut down periods

• cost effective and easy operation