Mining operations face relentless challenges, yet safety remains paramount. Schmersal’s innovative range, including belt misalignment, emergency stop switches, explosion-protected position sensors, and safety light curtains, is engineered to thrive in hazardous conditions.

How do you ensure that your products remain relevant in challenging environments such as mining sites, where dust, temperature variations, and rough handling are common?

Mining environments present extreme challenges, including high dust levels, temperature fluctuations, and rough equipment handling. Schmersal ensures product reliability and relevance through an Ex-certified product range designed for hazardous environments. Our explosion-proof solutions adhere to ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and IECEx standards. Built with robust IP66/IP67-rated enclosures, our devices protect against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Our Ex-rated limit switches, solenoid interlocks, and position switches are designed for high-vibration areas, ensuring consistent operation in demanding mining conditions. For the Indian market, along with the ATEX approval, we are also going ahead with PESO approval for ex-products.

Our PESO-certified products comply with safety regulations for Zone 1 (gas) and Zone 21 (dust).

Could you explain how your Belt Misalignment Switches (HDS Series) and Pull-wire Emergency Stop Switches (ZQ 900) enhance safety and operational efficiency in mining conveyor systems?

Mining conveyor systems are crucial in material handling, requiring continuous operation for optimal productivity. Our HDS Series Belt Misalignment Switches detect belt deviations caused by uneven loads or wear and trigger alerts or shutdowns to prevent mechanical failures and downtime. Designed with rugged IP67 enclosures, they withstand extreme dust and temperature conditions. Meanwhile, the ZQ 900 Pull-wire Emergency Stop Switches ensure continuous emergency stop control along conveyor lengths, adhering to IEC 60947-5-5. Their mechanical latching mechanism requires manual resetting after inspection, enhancing operational safety. By integrating these safety switches, mining operations minimise equipment damage, enhance worker safety, and ensure uninterrupted material flow. Additionally, the application for PESO certification for the HDS series and ZQ 900 is underway and expected by the middle of this year.

In terms of explosion protection, how do your Explosion-Protected Position Switches (EX-Series) and Solenoid Interlocks (AZM300-EX) contribute to safety in hazardous areas, particularly in underground mining?

Explosion protection is critical in underground mining due to flammable gases, dust, and hazardous conditions. Our EX-Series Explosion-Protected Position Switches are designed for Zone 1 & Zone 21 applications, featuring encapsulated explosion-proof contacts (IEC 60079-1, IEC 60079-31) that eliminate ignition risks. These switches monitor the position of moving machine parts in conveyors and drilling equipment. The EX-AZM300 Solenoid Interlocks will provide hazardous access control with a power-to-lock/unlock principle, preventing unintended access until de-energised.

Your Safety Light Curtains (SLC440/COM) are designed to safeguard dangerous areas. What role do they play in large-scale mining or construction projects?

Our Ex-approved Safety Light Curtains (SLC440/COM-EX) offer non-contact safety protection in Zone 1 and Zone 21 above the mining surface and construction zones where hazardous movements pose a risk to personnel. Certified for Zone 1, 2 (gas) and Zone 21, 22 (dust) under ATEX 2014/34/EU gives us an edge over the competition that only offers Zone 2 and Zone 22. These light curtains feature a robust design that is resistant to dust, vibrations, and impact. Their high-resolution detection capability ensures personnel safety around drilling rigs, conveyor transfer points, and crushing equipment.

How is Schmersal aligning with global and Indian safety regulations in the mining sector, particularly concerning safety at hazardous locations and explosion-prone areas?

We ensure compliance with international and Indian safety regulations by obtaining the necessary certifications for hazardous area safety. Our explosion-proof switches, solenoid interlocks, and controllers are undergoing PESO certification for Zone 1, 2 & Zone 21 and 22 environments. We are also working towards compliance with the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) guidelines for underground mining safety equipment. Additionally, our Ex-certified products conform to ATEX and IECEx standards (IEC 60079-1, IEC 60079-31) to prevent gas and dust explosions. By aligning with these regulatory requirements, Schmersal guarantees full safety compliance in the Indian and global mining sectors.

What training programs or support systems does Schmersal offer to ensure that personnel in mining operations are well-versed in using your safety products?

We offer specialised training programs to equip mining operators, engineers, and safety personnel with the knowledge to implement and maintain safety solutions effectively. Our EX-Product Training covers explosion-proof (Ex) product fundamentals, zone classifications, and hazardous location safety. The Safety Standards & Compliance Training educates teams on IEC 60079, ISO 13849-1, and SIL classifications relevant to mining applications. Additionally, we provide on-site product training and installation support, ensuring proper configuration and maintenance of safety products in the field. These programs empower mining personnel to confidently handle safety-critical equipment, reducing risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.

For more information, visit: https://www.schmersal.in/home