Mine electrotechnology research: the past 17 years

The direct results on the mining industry of the research program sponsored by the US Bureau of Mines over the last decade and a half include increased safety, increased productivity, a better working environment for miners, and a more secure supply of minerals to the US economy. Some important technical developments in the electrical area that have taken place are: the development of mine monitoring systems; improved hard-wired and wireless communications systems; improved grounding systems including ground check monitors, reliability databases, and models for power system safety; improved power system protection and analysis; and a growing effort to use expert systems to improve the operation of mines. Side benefits of this research program include the availability of technically trained manpower, an improved body of technical knowledge, continuing education opportunities, and improved channels of communication for technical knowledge