Vibration measurement technology is critical to underground mining
Vibration measurement technology in underground mining is critical to the structural integrity of mines, tunnels, shafts and caverns. It involves the use of precise sensor technology to monitor vibrations caused, for example, by blasting, tunnel drilling machines or passing trains. In addition, underground structures can be sensitive to subtle vibrations occurring over long periods of time, often unnoticed by humans, like ongoing seismic activity, rock and ground pressure.
ASC QBA quartz accelerometers combine the benefits of a wide measuring range, ultra-low resolution and outstanding long-term stability in compact, flexible housing. They are ideal for detecting and monitoring a variety of diverse shocks and vibration events that can impact drilling and mining operations. By doing so, they ensure the stability of pits, protect people and machinery and keep operations profitable.
Where accuracy meets precision
In sensor technology, accuracy ensures that measurements are close to the true physical value to maintain the correctness of results and provide reliable data for control and decision-making. Meanwhile, precision secures consistent, repeatable readings leading to low random deviations, low noise and high resolution.
Combining both criteria – paired with a strong focus on customer need and short delivery timelines – the German specialist ASC Sensors launched the customisable ASC QBA series: premium level servo-balanced quartz accelerometers designed for accuracy and precision, to help solve a wide range of high-end measurement, monitoring and position control challenges.
The ASC QBA series
ASC QBA series accelerometers are based on navigation grade servo-balanced quartz sensing elements that feature a measurement range of ±30g. They offer a resolution of better than 1μg to detect even the smallest vibrations, as well as outstanding long-term stability of the scale factor (K1: 1200ppm) and bias (K0: 1200μg).
With an operational temperature range of -40 to +70°C, high shock and vibration resistance (250g survival) and compact IP 67 stainless steel housing, ASC QBA quartz accelerometers are robust to withstand harsh conditions. All features combined make them particularly suitable for inclination measurement and other challenges typically faced in drilling and mining applications.
Flexible solution for diverse settings
Servo or force-balanced quartz sensors rely on an active feedback loop to maintain a “null” position. A coil is attached to a quartz pendulum suspended in a magnetic field of permanent magnets. This coil acts as a feedback actuator. The current in the magnetic field generates a force that is equal in magnitude and opposite to the inertial force, returning the pendulum to its original equilibrium position. Because the quartz remains virtually stationary, the sensor avoids mechanical errors like hysteresis and fatigue, while the restoring current provides a highly linear and stable measurement of the input force.
Readily available in vertical-mounted, uniaxial VX, VY or VZ sensitive directions, the ASC QBA series can be adapted to include customised biaxial and triaxial sensors. Also feasible, on demand, are even smaller measuring ranges of up to ±1g as well as an optional voltage output signal.
Flexibility is key to achieving reliable, superior measuring outcomes across diverse applications, terrains, geological and environmental conditions. So are adjustable power supply, housing and the opportunity to integrate connecting cables of configurable length. The upgraded electronic circuitry utilises flexible power input of 9-36VDC and a 4-20mA analogue current output for reliable data transmission. The housing can be adapted by application and equipped with a customised connecting cable so that these sensors can be used at appropriate depths and over long distances in mines, tunnels or mountains.
Enabling mining, drilling and more
ASC QBA accelerometers are optimal in more than just monitoring and safeguarding diverse underground mining and drilling projects such as complex industrial inclination and orientation (tunnel, oil, gas, geothermal drilling, conveying systems). They are also ideal for the monitoring of safety-critical buildings, components and infrastructure (structural health monitoring, seismic detection, semiconductor industry, railway) or sophisticated navigation and guidance systems (commercial aviation, aerospace).
All these applications require reliable sensor technology that combines a wide measuring range with low resolution and enhanced long-term stability – to achieve superior results that ensure progress, help mitigate issues proactively and keep operations running smoothly.
Fore more information visit: www.asc-sensors.de
