Mining systems solution provider Becker Mining South Africa’s electronics division specialises in automation and communication systems designed to enhance productivity and improve safety in the mining sector, including “the dependable Wireless Router Access Point (WRAP) Wi-Fi system”.

“WRAP is recognised by the local and global coal mining sector for reliable, safe and efficient high-speed communication underground,” says Becker, adding that it successfully deployed a large WRAP backbone installation at one of the leading coal mines in South Africa last year.

WRAP has a versatile design, which means a combination of communications technologies can be used to optimise the system. For example, fibre can be used for high data throughput of up to 1 GB. In working sections of a coal mine, where there is frenetic activity, a wireless mesh topology is recommended.

“The company has made a substantial investment in researching and testing underground WiFi systems to overcome the problems associated with conventional WiFi in arduous underground conditions. The intrinsically safe (IS) WRAP, is certified by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa,” says Becker Mining South Africa electronic division senior GM Andrew Trentelman.

He states that a critical feature of this system is the IS design, which enables safe use in harsh and potentially explosive coal mining conditions. What is important about Becker’s systems – all of which can be customised to exact requirements – is that each product can be installed as a single standalone system, or it can be deployed using a phased approach to minimise a massive initial capital outlay.

“The Becker WRAP provides a high-speed backbone for wireless voice over Internet protocol, seamless roaming of devices, advanced vehicular dispatch systems, process automation, as well as any device that can use a wireless, serial or fibre backbone. This system does not limit usage to a single technology, but encompasses migration and integration of many technologies. The IS WRAP unit’s small form factor, weighing less than 5 kg, ensures ease of installation and maintenance,” notes Trentelman.

WRAP is the primary component in creating the Becker WiFi IS backbone. The internal layer three router contains the logic to route all network traffic to the correct interface card or to the correct fibre point. The route of network traffic is based on the rules configured into the router itself. Firewall rules can also be configured to control bandwidth usage of protocols, as well as to provide security to the network. The router configuration allows for “self-healing” capabilities, in the event of a unit failure.

Systems from Becker Mining South Africa include Smartsense environmental monitoring and leaky feeder systems, as well as WiFi and underground tracking of personnel and vehicles. Fibre-optic and digital radio networks, and SCADA and Ethernet networks are also available.