A Ghanaian goldmine operator reports a marked increase in the operational reliability of its underground railway system by switching to a Schneider Electric.  The M340 and Magelis XBT HMI platform delivers a solution robust enough able to withstand the most arduous of environmental factors such as temperature, vibration and humidity.

UK Company Clayton Equipment Ltd is a leading global supplier of rail haulage equipment with a solid history in manufacturing, spanning more than 80 years. Their custom battery, trolley and diesel locomotive solutions are widely used in supplying the mining, tunnelling, and construction sectors. Overseas demand is growing and 95% of Clayton’s equipment is now produced for the export market.

With Clayton providing custom maintenance for their clients, device quality and reliability are fundamental in their provision of complete customer satisfaction.  Working worldwide, the choice of an automation partner was also critical where local sales and support are needed.

Harsh environment

On a recent project within the gold mines of Ghana, Clayton were asked to provide a control and automation system for the management of on-board locomotives used in gold ore extraction both above and below ground.  Environmental conditions at the site, where temperature, humidity and vibration can reach extreme levels were a primary concern.

After a detailed review process Clayton selected Schneider Electric’s PlantStruxure solution, based on Modicon M340 and Magelis XBTGT HMIs sophisticated integrated data visualisation capacity, robustness and flexibility.  In migrating to their new system Clayton undertook an upgrade of the locomotives’ control system by replacing the previous electromechanical system.

The new system provides flexible control of the trains from either locomotive; options enable selecting one to run as ‘master’ or ‘slave’, or running both independently. Within the driver’s cabin, a 15” Magelis XBTGT graphic touch-screen presents a holistic view of a number of parameters for the locomotives, including load currents, reservoir pressures, brake pressures and operational status.

The PlantStruxure system now allows for remote monitoring and control of Clayton productions, greatly aiding operators and management in maximising operational efficiencies.  Operator logs and production data are stored within the system, simplifying data recall in both diagnosing and reducing operational inefficiencies.

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