Tata Steel’s Jharia division took several innovative moves of automation and digitalization to improve the functioning of the company. Tata Steel stated that “In line with its mechanization and modernization program, Tata Steel Jharia division has commissioned the state-of-the-art 2 MTPA coal preparation plant and 400 kilovolt-ampere (KVA) Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) for Main Mechanical Ventilator at Jamadoba colliery.” These facilities were launched by D B Sundara Ramam, Vice President (Raw materials), Tata Steel in front of Sanjay Rajoria, General Manager, Jharia division.
From the oldest running washery in Asia (in operation since 1952), the 2 MTPA coal preparation was constructed from a cutting-edge technology plant and has been modified to one of the most modern washeries around the globe.
The statement added, the washery is a major up-gradation from a conventional set-up that packs dense media cyclone circuit for a coarse, intermediate circuit for reflux classifier and flotation for fines circuit to improve production efficiency. It further added that this is the first washery in the country with a 100 percent dewatering facility assembled within its plant. Therefore, fully eliminating the need for tailing pond, auto sprinklers, and dry fog systems.
D B Sundara addressing on the occasion, said, “Introduction of appropriate technology is key to the success of underground mining. At Tata Steel, we leverage our innovation capabilities, technology leadership with a focus on safety and sustainability to create long-term value.” Furthermore, a “state-of-the-art beneficiation plant not only addresses issues like productivity, safety, and environment but at the same time ensures production of coal at a competitive price.”
Moreover, the company said that the giant UPS was installed so that it could provide continuous power supply to the 450-horsepower mine fan and instantly changes over during power cut from DVC and it will supply power for 40 minutes, providing enough time required for electricity restoration or change-over to captive supply. This kind of backup UPS facility is the first of its kind in the country for any mine ventilation fan, it further said, using this set-up will not only ensure safety and ergonomics within the mines but also provide a good atmosphere workplace for the miners. Notably, Tata Steel Jharia division has maintained leadership of innovation and modernization since inception and initiatives like chair lift man riding system, cooling plant, low capacity and low-cost continuous miner with the haulage system have set standards relating to underground mining in the country.
