Abstract
Compressed air systems are one of the most significant energy users on mines, with a contribution of about 20 per cent to the total electrical energy consumption on a mine. Research has shown that these compressed air networks are systemically inefficient. Improving the efficiency of these systems would result in a significant reduction in energy costs. A simulation methodology was developed and investigations were conducted into compressed air systems. A compressed air system was subsequently modelled, and a proposed means of improvement was simulated, analysed, and quantified. A South African gold mine was used as a case study. The results showed that, by reducing air usage at refuge bays, an average power reduction of 0.9 megawatts could be achieved. The improvement in efficiency could potentially lead to R6.3 million in annual energy cost savings. The study shows how simulations can help to improve efficiency and profitability in the mining industry.
Highlights
1.1 Background South Africa’s mines are some of the deepest in the world
A simulation methodology was developed and investigations were conducted into compressed air systems
The available literature reports that energy-saving interventions on compressed air systems have been implemented through one, or a combination, of the following strategies [10]:
Summary
Compressed air systems are one of the most significant energy users on mines, with a contribution of about 20 per cent to the total electrical energy consumption on a mine. Improving the efficiency of these systems would result in a significant reduction in energy costs. A simulation methodology was developed and investigations were conducted into compressed air systems. A compressed air system was subsequently modelled, and a proposed means of improvement was simulated, analysed, and quantified. The study shows how simulations can help to improve efficiency and profitability in the mining industry. ʼn Druklug stelsel is gemodelleer enn voorgestelde metode van verbetering is gesimuleer, geanaliseer en gekwantifiseer. ʼn Suid-Afrikaanse goudmyn is gebruik asn gevallestudie en die resultate toon dat, deur die lugverbruik by skuilinhamme te verminder, ʼn gemiddelde vermindering van 0.9 megawatt moontlik is. Die studie wys hoe simulasies kan bydra tot die verbetering van die doeltreffendheid en winsgewendheid van die mynindustrie
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
