MineARC Systems
Coal Mines
* Currently the world's only refuge chamber built to 2009 US MSHA 'Final Rule': Refuge Aternatives for Underground Coal Mines'
* Currently the world’s only ‘intrinsically safe’ (non-electrically powered) CO/CO2 Scrubbing and integrated air-conditioning system: The MARC.is™
The CoalSAFE® Refuge Chamber (Secure Area For Evacuation)
In 2007 MineARC Systems was approached by leading international coal mining companies and industry safety advisors to develop an intrinsically safe (non-electrically powered), self rescue change-over station, capable of sustaining life for 100 hours as a stand-alone unit.
After two years of research, development and live testing, MineARC perfected its coal chamber design: The CoalSAFE (Safe Area For Evacuation).
Through innovative design, the Coal-SAFE® is currenlty the only chamber on the market to incorporate both a powerless carbon dioxide/carbon monoxide scrubber as well as an intrinsically safe air conditioning system (refrigerant R744) - The MARC.is™
MineARC Coal-SAFE® Refuge Chambers have been tested and refined with actual human testing. Multiple independent tests of the chamber’s life support systems have verified that the Coal-SAFE® can successfully operate under a range of underground mine conditions. Mechanical and functional tests have verified the life support systems capability to operate continuously for in excess of 100 hours.
The Coal-SAFE® has been meticulously designed and engineered to ensure ease of transport and a robust design. Constructed from explosion resistant steel plate and external support wraps the chamber can withstand in excess of a 15psi overpressure with no permanent damage.
MineARC’s Coal-SAFE® Refuge Chambers are approved by the West Virginia Office of Miner’s Health & Safety and are currently the only refuge chambers in the world built to MSHA §7.503: Refuge Alternatives for Underground Coal Mines; 'Final Rule' (currently regarded as world's 'best practice').
The CoalSAFE should only be used as a last resort in situations where evacuating the mine is no-longer safe or practical.
The Modular CoalSAFE refuge model is designed specifically for narrow shaft underground coal mines where transporting whole units down the shaft can be problematic.