Gems Pressure Sensors Manage the Suspension on Coal Mine Haul Trucks
February 19, 2021
Coal mine haul trucks are essential for removing “overburden” (the layer of dirt above the coal) and transporting the coal once it is excavated from underground. The miners will store the overburden and replace it once they are done mining. Monitoring the weight of the load ensures that the trucks are not overloaded, which could reduce equipment life and cause a safety hazard. Multiple sensors on the truck allow the equipment to work efficiently and safely.
Challenge
Convert from outdated pressure dial gauges to analog output pressure sensors
Most trucks in the field are still using pressure dial gauges to measure their haul load. On new trucks, dial gauges are becoming outdated and are being replaced with a solid state (no moving parts) analog output pressure sensor. The pressure sensor monitors nitrogen-charged accumulators on the struts of each wheel to measure load weight and is expected to withstand high shock and vibration while surviving in the harsh mining operation environment. The information read by the sensor is then displayed in the cab of the truck for the driver to make decisions with.
Solution
3200 Series Heavy Duty Pressure Sensors
Our 3200 Series Pressure Sensors provide accurate pressure readings to the operator via the display. The 3200 Series can withstand high shock and vibration, as well as overpressures, to ensure continued operation. Additionally, our 3200 Series can be specified as a dual-pressure and temperature output sensor with a deflator pressure port (also known as a Schrader valve) to enable mating with nitrogen accumulators. Our solution enables operators to more effectively monitor vehicle load to ensure continued productivity and safety, while also facilitating ease of installation.
The 3200 Series Pressure Sensors are the heavy-duty versions of the popular 3100 Series pressure sensors. The 3200 series has a higher over-pressure rating (a.k.a. as “Proof Pressure”):
This extra protection will ensure accurate pressure readings and provide a long-lasting solution for trouble-free operation.
Features
- Exceptional Long-Term Stability = No need for costly field calibration or replacement
- Thermally compensated = Consistent performance under wide temperature conditions
- 304 Stainless Steel body = Able to withstand harsh chemicals and gases
- Sealed to IP67 = heavy water spray, power-washing
- Enhanced RFI, EMI, and ESD Protection = Clear uninterrupted signal in harsh electrical environments
- Computer Controlled Calibration = High 1:1 Interchangeability from unit to unit
- Passes 40G Vibration test and IEC Free Fall test = Rugged design to handle excessive shock and vibration conditions