Strata Mine Services and On Site Gas Systems have announced a strategic partnership to expand their mine seal construction and behind-seal inerting capabilities to provide a comprehensive solution for US coal mines.
“Every mine eventually needs ventilation seals built, as well as assistance with nitrogen inerting. Bringing these companies together and offering nitrogen generators as part of seal installation provides mine operators with a convenient and cost-effective solution,” says Jeff Hamrick, vice president and general manager of Strata Mine Services.
Strata Mine Services currently offers two mine seal products that are MSHA approved under Final Rule 30 CFR Part 75, and additional designs are currently pending approval. Available now and approved for both the 120psi and 50psi segments of the regulations are the Stratacrete plug seal and the PMR reinforced seal.
The Stratacrete plug seal is designed with two formwalls constructed across the entry and remotely filled with a concrete mix called stratacrete. As the width, or coverage of the seal, increases, so does its strength. The PMR reinforced seal is constructed by anchoring rebar into the mine’s roof and floor, then wiring it with 3D welded wire mesh. This forms a strong rib system which can then be fully coated with high-strength gunite or shotcrete. The gunite is sprayed to overlap all edges and create an airtight seal.
Through the new partnership with On Site Gas, Strata Mine Services now also offers the additional service of inerting seal atmospheres during construction and until the seal reaches full strength.
On Site Gas nitrogen generators provide a safe and economical solution to inerting the atmosphere within sealed mine areas; either from a nearby underground location or from above ground. Generating nitrogen on location offers significant savings over the cost of liquid delivered through a borehole, both in terms of convenience and the mine’s financial bottom line. The nitrogen can be made on-site for the duration of a project, eliminating the need for local gas supplier deliveries.
On Site Gas CEO Guy Hatch says that mines will certainly benefit from this joint effort. “Each company has a great reputation within the industry for the products and services they provide,” he said. “By working together, we can offer a complete and easy solution to the mines.”