As Australia continues its path to net zero, there are increasing calls for the mining industry to utilise equipment that reduces its environmental footprint.
Mining plays a key role in the clean energy transition, with a variety of critical minerals vital to renewable technologies such as solar panels, batteries and magnets.
Though the output is imperative to Australia’s renewable future, implementing sustainable practices can minimise the environmental impact of mining operations on a day-to-day basis.
Equipment powering industry
Although finding ways to electrify and decarbonise the large machinery associated with the sector can make an impact on reducing emissions, an often-overlooked area is the smaller equipment that powers the industry.
Valves are essential components in a mining operation and can contribute to its overall sustainability.
Many valves in the mining industry rely on pneumatic actuation, in which compressed air is used to enact a mechanical motion. The production of compressed air is an energy-intensive process and, as such, these types of valves have high overall energy consumption.
Pneumatic actuator valves require a stable and continuous supply of air or gas, meaning their performance can be affected by fluctuations in air supply. Leaking can further exacerbate energy consumption and lead to environmental hazards. Additionally, pneumatic actuator valves require more maintenance and have shorter lifespans than other types of actuators, resulting in negative environmental outcomes.
Whilst pneumatic actuated valves are the norm in the industry, utilising alternatives can boost a mining operation’s sustainability.
Sustainable valve solutions
Bürkert’s fluid control systems provide unparalleled valve solutions that are customisable to fit every mining application. With high flexibility thanks to modular designs, a diverse choice of materials, longevity, high-reliability and low environmental impact, Bürkert valves stand the test of time.
When it comes to sustainable alternatives for pneumatic actuated valves in the mining industry, electromotive and solenoid valves are often a better replacement, with applications ranging from dosing to dust suppression.
Electromotive valves offer accuracy, ease of control and, importantly, low energy consumption. Bürkert range of electromotive valves include angle seat, diaphragm, globe, ball, butterfly and disc types, all of which come in multiple configurations to suit the needs of the operation.
Solenoid valves are electromechanically operated and allow fluids or gases to be shut off, released, dosed, distributed or mixed. Valves with kick and drop technology have coils with double winding that is initially excited by a high electric current before switching to an energy-saving holding power consumption. Bürkert’s solenoid valves with kick and drop coil technology are not only durable and silent, but they allow for energy savings of up to 80 per cent.
In addition to optimising onsite efficiency, Bürkert’s range of electromotive and solenoid valves offer an opportunity for mining operations to minimise their environmental footprint from the inside out.
Sustainably minded
Bürkert’s valves enable more efficient resource extraction, reducing energy consumption and waste generation. The company prioritises eco-friendly practices and adheres to stringent quality standards from design and manufacturing to installation and maintenance.
Bürkert’s range of solenoid and kick and drop valves will be on display at Booth 13 in the German Pavilion at the International Mining and Resources Conference.
To learn more, visit burkert.com.au
Featured image: A depiction of a mine site with indicators of where Bürkert applications can be used. Image: Bürkert
