As part of the performance testing required by MSHA for new CO sensors, the sensor must pass rigorous tests to prove accurate performance and resistance to radio frequency interference (RFI). CO sensors often experience problems with RFI when used in close proximity to two-way radios. Unlike other sensors, the S1000 was specifically designed for resistance to RFI even in close proximity to two-way radios. The S1000’s resistance to RFI was confirmed by performance testing, which established that the sensor is fully compliant with 30 CFR 75.351 and APOL 2207, with no MSHA blasting clearance requirement.
The WAMS S1000 Sensor previously received MSHA Intrinsic Safety (IS) approval (no. 18-A090002-0), allowing the sensor to remain in continuous operation post-accident or during fan outages.
“At the Warrior mine, we currently have approximately 110 Matrix S1000 wireless sensors underground,” said Eric Anderson, general manager, Warrior Coal. “Installing, calibrating, and relocating these new wireless CO sensors has saved our men significant time. We are excited to have a compliant CO sensor that can accurately monitor air conditions underground after the fan is shut off or during other mine emergencies that require the power to be turned off.” Warrior Coal is a subsidiary of Alliance Resources Partners and Alliance owns Matrix.
The S1000 CO sensor is part of Matrix’s Wireless Atmospheric Monitoring System (WAMS), which integrates with Matrix’s Miner and Equipment Tracking System (METS) to provide a single underground infrastructure for atmospheric monitoring, communication and tracking. Currently, there are more than 1,000 S1000 units being used in U.S. coal mines.
