Australian mining refuge chamber manufacturer MineArc Systems has released its new Aura-FX digital fixed gas monitoring system, which it says provides a “more convenient” solution to internal refuge chamber gas monitoring.

The company believes that it is a “vast improvement” on current digital gas monitors on the market, as the Aura-FX monitors oxygen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide as standard through a series of user-friendly, digital screens. It also has the ability to individually monitor up to 11 gases.

MineArc points out that gas monitoring is an essential aspect of maintaining a life supporting atmosphere within the refuge chamber.

Further, the company notes that the system has audible voice alarms that will prompt occupants to replace scrubbing chemicals or adjust oxygen supply levels into the refuge chamber as required.

MineArc elaborates that the Aura-FX master controller monitor provides real-time data on the overall internal environment of the refuge chamber. It is fitted with an environment sensor that measures internal pressure, humidity and temperature.

The monitor also displays the diagnostics on all gas monitors within the system, providing information on when the units require servicing and calibration.

MineArc comments that the calibration is similar to that of other gas monitors on the market, with the added benefit of being able to calibrate in situ rather than having to bring the unit to the surface.

“Each sensor is flooded with calibration gas of known composition and the sensor reading is adjusted to match the target accordingly. This is conducted using the touchscreen interface on each monitor,” the company explains.

When the sensors reach the end of their service life, they are replaced simply by removing the click-in cover, pulling out the old sensor board and pushing in the new one.

The Aura-FX is standard on all new MineArc refuge chambers and safe havens. It is also available for retrofit to most existing chambers during an upgrade or refurbishment.