Electric Pump Installed! Hard Rock Gold Mining Episode 29

Headframe Hunters Mining & Exploration
Headframe Hunters Mining & Exploration
128
0
Published 2024-05-28
After the oscillation from the pneumatic diaphragm pumps blew up one too many discharge hoses but still couldn't keep pace with the water, we purchased a 10HP electric dewatering pump. Its benefits are threefold: higher throughput, less strain on the discharge lines, and it frees up the compressor so we can pump and drill at the same time for more efficient generator utilization. A smaller generator is on the horizon, for even more cost-effective pumping.

Also in this episode: ventilation! The tee at the 130 station was causing tremendous ventilation losses, so I tore it out, replaced it with a brand-new 45-degree elbow, and installed 50 feet of new bag to boot. Next up is rehanging the old blast bag closer to the face, which will need to be done before mucking out the next shot. In the long term I'll exchange the elbow for another tee, and install a regulator on the duct running down to the 250 level. It's unlikely that we'll ever have a large enough crew and fleet to require full ventilation on both levels (watch me eat my words...) so being able to selectively route fresh air to the current working area will save money by not ventilating inactive workings.
All Comments (4)
  • @spdfreakls1
    Wow this mine looks almost identical to one we got into earlier this month! Ill have to post a video in a few weeks. Keep up the good work!
  • @t0m541
    Overhead clearance is the biggest challenge for that vent pipe over getting enough CFM flow. Is there any oval type tube that is available to do the job. As for the electric dewatering pump as opposed to the diaphragm pump, is the duty cycle of the electric version, some only have a limited lifespan in the bearings etc., where the diaphragm will never stop, unless the valves block or you get a split.
  • @olivei2484
    Hit the start button. Yeah, that one over there. Water must be a huge nusiance in your line of work. It is worth retaining for future use or too gritty?