Mine Inertisation

Use of nitrogen for coal mine inertisation is a key safety feature for coal mines.

The combination of heat, fuel (coal) and oxygen are all that are required to start a thermal event. This is often referred to as the fire triangle. Once started these thermal events can run indefinitely causing a significant hazard to workers in the area and causing mines huge financial losses, due to loss of product and mine outages. The use of nitrogen serves to remove the oxygen element in the fire triangle. The nitrogen will help stop an existing fire or prevent one starting.

BOC has the ability to supply nitrogen in a wide range of flowrates and via alternate generation methods to mines across Australia and New Zealand, for the purposes of mine inertisation. BOC's demonstrated supply capability and the ability to put storage and vapourisation assets on the ground quickly is un-paralleled throughout the region. BOC has the region's biggest nitrogen production facilities combined with the most extensive network of distribution assets, ensuring we can respond quickly and effectively to any mine thermal event regardless of size. BOC's experience and available assets are a key reason that we have been the trusted partner for decades with NSW Mines Rescue.

BOC has the ability to supply, install, operate and maintain equipment that can generate nitrogen on the customer's site. This technology is ideal for customers who need a steady, continuous demand of nitrogen for extended periods. The technology is usually in the form of either a pressure swing absorption system or a membrane system. These systems can be located in one place or made portable to meet the requirements of the customer.