When looking to install a new communications system, mine personnel reviewed a number of technologies and cap lamp types. The intent was to provide broad, mine-wide signal coverage to complement its existing telephone system.

The decision was based on cost-effectiveness to provide communication to all parts of the mine, including return airways and all belt roads, not just the main travel roads.

The mine also seized the opportunity to change to lighter lithium ion cap lamp batteries.

Mine Site Technologies will supply 136 Integrated Communication Cap Lamps (ICCL) which include a PED pager receiver; a single PED ultra low frequency Transmission Headend; and 1500m of PED antenna cable to be installed underground.

Ashton has joined other Hunter Valley mines that have changed out to the new ICCL units over recent months, including United, Newpac and Austar coal mines.

The Ashton longwall is on track for March first coal, and is expected to produce more than 2 million tonnes per annum of semi-soft coking coal.